The Best Teacher Appreciation Gifts From Trader Joe’s

The end of the school year is almost here, and if you’re scrambling for a thoughtful (but not over-the-top) gift to show your appreciation, Trader Joe’s has you covered. From cheerful plants and flowers to indulgent treats, it’s easy to pull together something that feels personal without blowing your budget. Whether you’re shopping for one amazing teacher or a whole team who supported your kid, we’ve got creative, grab-and-go gift ideas that say “thank you” in true TJ’s style.

Flower power

From orchids to tulips to ferns with sunglasses, Trader Joe’s always delivers when it comes to flowers. Pick up a bouquet for your living room, and one for your kid’s teacher next time you are out. Simple, fresh flowers will make your teacher feel special and appreciated. Take this gift to the next level by putting the flowers in a simple vase before taking them to school.

Bakery treats

Cookies, cakes and really any baked goods are a welcome treat anytime. These sea salt chocolate chunk cookies are amazing; I have to buy two boxes if I want them to last the night at my house. Grab a box for your kid’s teacher, they’ll love the yummy end-of-the-school-day snack.

Caffeine kick

Teaching is exhausting, so give your teacher a caffeine boost with some coffee from Trader Joe’s. They have ground, whole beans, and many different roasts and flavors. Throw in a box of instant coffee too so your teacher can quickly make an afternoon pick-me-up to help them make it to the bell.

All the chocolate

Nothing says “Thank you for putting up with my kid for nine months” more than chocolate, especially an entire pound of chocolate. Trader Joe’s has an impressive selection of chocolate bars (in a variety of sizes and flavors) and incredibly good fancy chocolate treats and candies. Tip: It was just announced that Trader Joe’s will be offering a Dubai chocolate bar (dark chocolate with pistachio cream and crispy kataifi) for a limited time.

Fancy drinks

While a nice bottle of wine can be a thoughtful gift, it’s best given to close family or friends. Stick with nonalcoholic drinks for your kid’s teacher — Trader Joe’s has lots of yummy options! These sparkling lemonade drinks are beautiful and give off a very fancy summertime in the sun vibe. Grab a couple of options as a gift and your kid’s teacher will be ready to relax and sip their troubles away.

Lotions and potions

If anyone deserves to rest, relax and unwind, it’s teachers! Trader Joe’s has plenty of lotions and other relaxing concoctions to let teachers pamper themselves after a hard day (year) of work. Trader Joe’s also has great candles (it’s the only place I buy tall votive candles every fall) with scents ranging from grapefruit to “Garden Party.”

A tote to carry it all

Between papers to grade, classroom supplies, books and art projects, teachers have their hands full! Present your gift in a sturdy Trader Joe’s tote, a practical, functional (and cute) gift they will probably use for years.

Nothing beats a card

While flowers and chocolate are great, teachers really appreciate a thoughtful, handwritten card. Pick one up for just $0.99 at Trader Joe’s and let them know what a difference they made in your family’s life. If your child is old enough to write, have them sit down and write their own message of thanks to their teacher. It will melt their heart (and probably yours too).