It's that time of year again - new backpacks, first-day photos, the smell of freshly sharpened pencils. And somewhere on every school parent's list this time of year is this question: I should get my kid's teacher something. 

Maybe that's a gift card for coffee (you can never go wrong!). Maybe it's just a card. But if you've gotten that far and you're staring at the inside of a blank card wondering what on earth to actually write — that's what we're talking about today.

When I Was the One Getting the Card

Before The Lovely Letter Co., I was a teacher. And I still remember what it felt like to start a new school year not knowing a single thing about the kids who were about to walk through my door, or the parents I'd be partnering with for the next nine months.

The moments I felt most supported by parents were the times I felt like we were actually on the same team. It was the quick notes and unexpected cards that meant the world — simple messages like "Thank you for how patient you've been with my kid." or "I'm so grateful YOU are my child's teacher." They interrupted my day just enough to remind me why I was a teacher.

And here's the thing, most of those cards came at the end of the year, on the last day, right as the kids were already saying their goodbyes. I was always surprised by how much parents had appreciated me all along. And, I remember thinking: I wish I'd known that sooner. 

So if you're on the fence about whether to say something now versus later - say it now. The beginning of the year means just as much, maybe more, because it tells a teacher they're supported before the hard days even start.

Okay, So What Do You Actually Write?

Writing inside a card can feel harder than it should. So, here are a few ideas to get you started, depending on what you want to say:

If you just want to encourage them at the start of the year: "Here's to a great year ahead. You've got this — and we're grateful to be on your team. Thanks for helping our child grow!”

If you want to say thank you for the effort you don't always see: "Thank you for everything you do that we don't get to see — the extra patience, the extra grace, the extra effort. It doesn't go unnoticed. We’re lucky that our child gets to have you as their teacher"

If your kid has struggled and this teacher has been a steady presence: "This year hasn't been the easiest for [child's name], and you've made such a difference. Thank you for showing up for them, again and again."

There’s 0 pressure to write a long paragraph because a few honest sentences can mean a lot more than something generic written from a card company (ironic, I know.. coming from a card company) 

A Few Of Our Cards That Are Perfect For This

Need a card to start with? Here are a few from our shop that were made with teachers in mind.

And if handwriting isn't your thing, or you just don't have the time between drop-off and pickup, our Send for You service means we'll write the message and mail it directly to their classroom for you.

One Last Thing

Whatever you write, don't overthink it. Teachers aren't grading your card. They just want to know they're seen. 

Here's to a good year for your family, and for the teachers walking alongside you.