I'm a teacher and there's 7 end-of-year gifts I absolutely HATE – please don't get us flowers for a start
Gifts may seem sweet, but trust me - we don't want a wilting bouquet or another mug saying 'Best Teacher Ever'.
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I'm a part-time reception class teacher at a primary school in Coventry, and I absolutely love it.
There's no better gift than watching the little ones grow, learn and gain confidence throughout the year.
Sometimes parents want to show their appreciation with gifts, which is lovely, but it's the personal touches that mean the most.
While I'm grateful for a thoughtful gesture, there are seven end-of-year gifts I secretly can't stand… and yes, flowers are right at the top of the list.
1. Flowers - the last-minute easy option
They may look and smell lovely, but they're high-maintenance and can be messier than a glitter craft session - especially lilies as they stain!
Plus, most bouquets start wilting faster than my patience on a school trip to the farm.
2. Notebooks & Calendars - simply practical
My pencil cases are practically bursting with planners and to-do lists!
There are only so many notebooks with 'Boss Babe' or 'Stay Positive' I can pretend to love.
3. Stationery - useful but predictable
Trust me, I've got more Sharpies than sense.
A novelty pencil sharpener or rainbow highlighters seemed handy – until I realised every parent had the same idea.
4. Teddies - cute but no
Until I have kids, teddies are just going to collect dust.
I'll thank you kindly - but then wonder where to put yet another '#1 Teacher' bear.
5. Chocolate - sweet but safe
Our staffroom is already a sugar bomb waiting to explode with endless sweet snacks and post-it notes from teachers saying: "Please take it or it will go in the bin!"
Don't add to our collection.
Free summer holiday activites
You don't need to spend a penny to keep your kids entertained this summer...
Museums - Some museums offer free entry to some exhibits, and also host events for kids.
Parks - Head to your local park to enjoy the playgrounds, games areas, courts and splash pads. Some even have trails for kids to enjoy.
Beach - It doesn't have to be sunny to enjoy the beach, you can go rock pooling, crabbing, make sandcastles, or enjoy a walk along the headland.
Library - If the weather is awful, head indoors and borrow books, audiobooks, dvds.
Cooking - Have your own mini bake-off, or Come Dine With Me challenge.
Playdates - Invite friends over for an afternoon of socialising.
Boardgames - Enjoy a little sibling rivalry with rounds of Monopoly or stretch your brain with Scrabble.
6. Mugs - too generic
I love tea - but I've got enough mugs to open a café.
Ones with quotes are cute, but after the tenth one, they start to lose their charm.
7. Books - to unwind? More like rewind
Sweet idea – but unless it's a personal fave or a signed copy, I might not read it.
And if it's another mindfulness journal? Well... I'm stressed just thinking about it.
What I actually love...
I'm not a total gift-grinch. There are some goodies that make me genuinely smile.
1. Handwritten Cards & Letters - guaranteed tear-jerker
A heartfelt note from your child (or even you) means the world.
It's the kind of thing I tuck away and re-read when I'm questioning my life choices mid- Ofsted inspection.
2. Kids' Drawings - gold star for effort
I love a good stickman with wild hair and "Miss Sharma is the best!" scrawled in the child's handwriting. It makes my heart melt.
No money can buy a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
3. Homemade Treats - made with love
If you (or your little one) can bake, a homemade treat is always appreciated.
Whether it's cookies or brownies, I'll happily munch on them between marking.
4. Bath Gift Sets & Candles - classic crowd-pleaser
Yes, please to anything that smells like lavender or lets me soak in peace after a day of school chaos.
Bonus points for personalisation, or if it comes in pretty packaging!
5. Indoor Plants - good vibes and no fuss
I love a leafy pal that lasts longer than a week - as long as it doesn't require a PhD in gardening.
Think low maintenance: aloe vera, succulents or a cheeky peace lily.
6. Cute Home Décor - bright and personal
A small trinket dish, a funky coaster or even a motivational sign saying "You've Got This" is great for that extra boost of confidence!
Little things go a long way.
7. Vouchers - easy yet effective
Whether it's Amazon, Costa, or M&S – I'll actually use these.
Because nothing says 'I appreciate you' like letting me pick out my own reward and treat myself.
So remember - keep it simple, make it thoughtful, and it's not about the money; it's about the message.
And if all else fails, say it with wine.
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