Around this time(The end of July)is the time of the year when every parent of a school-going child waits eagerly for the end of the school year.

Primary students and their parents prepare a thank you gift and a card to give their teachers as a sign of appreciation for their contribution to the student's education.

Of course, we’re aware of just how much our children’s teachers have done for them this last year, and we are very grateful. In the back of our minds, we vaguely wonder about getting some flowers or wine to say thank you, but in truth, we’re exhausted, and it seems like one more thing on the already bulging ‘to-do’ list.

Whether you get the teacher a present, or a card or flowers or all them means alot to teachers as  he/she prepares to take on a new class next year. Parents shouldn't worry about using perfect sentences, grammar or punctuation when writing a card  – you’re not being marked on any of this! (just kidding) Just let your child's teacher know what you have appreciated about them this year.

Some teachers stay up late doing schoolwork. I could have guessed this, coupled with creative ideas, and a thorough diligence to each child’s progress.

I think it’s worth considering that our children’s teachers regularly put in far more than what they’re paid to do. And I, for one, feel grateful for that. (I mean, I’d like them to work a little less hard and go to bed a little earlier, but I’m grateful for their commitment to my children.) I think they deserve far more than presents.

In Year 4, my youngest daughter(Naomi) had a teacher from the United States with whom she bonded very well. The teacher was in the UK on a work Visa, and that was her last year in the UK.

My daughter was kind of sad that she was leaving and would not see her again; I asked her to ask the teacher for her email so she could keep in touch.

Over to you, what is your experience with appreciating your children’s teachers? I would love to hear your thoughts.