School staff don’t just teach multiplication or hand out crayons.
They hold space for our kids’ meltdowns, fears, friendships, and big feelings, all while trying to manage their own. Teachers, school counselors, aides, social workers, front office staff… they’re the ones making it all run, often without enough sleep, credit, or support.
So, whether you’re a parent looking to show appreciation, a fellow educator trying to treat your team, or just someone who knows that school professionals deserve more, we put together a gift guide that’s equal parts practical, heartfelt, and emotionally grounding.
Because the people who care for everyone else? Deserve care too.
1. Feelings Found Kids Wheel
The Tool That Belongs in Every Classroom, Counseling Office, and Backpack
We may be biased, but this tool is essential. Our Kids Wheel was designed to help children name and understand their emotions, giving them language to navigate the day, their interactions, and their inner world.
Why it’s perfect: Teachers and counselors use it for morning check-ins, post-recess cool-downs, or even conflict resolution. It’s colorful, accessible, and takes zero prep time. Also? It starts conversations that matter.
Pairs well with: Sticky notes, fidget tools, and honest convos.
2. Personalized Teacher/Counselor Notepads
For the Endless Lists They’re Always Making
Get them a custom notepad that says “Ms. Johnson’s Brain Dump” or “Stuff I’ll Forget Unless I Write It Down.” Trust us, they’ll laugh and use it every day.
Why it’s perfect: It’s practical, but with personality. (Like your favorite teacher.)
3. Mini Sensory Toolkit
Because Sometimes You Just Need to Squeeze Something
Put together a simple kit with:
- TheraPutty or therapy dough
- Tangle fidget toys
- A mini Pushpeel board (like this one)
- Aromatherapy roll-on (lavender or eucalyptus FTW)
Why it’s perfect: These tools aren’t just for kids. They help everyone regulate, especially during hallway duty or after a tough parent meeting.
4. “Survival Stash” Basket
Snack. Hydrate. Repeat.
Include:
- Electrolyte packets
- Protein bars
- Chocolate (obviously)
- Breath spray or gum
- Lip balm
- A handwritten note that says: “You’re doing an impossible job, and you’re doing it beautifully.”
Why it’s perfect: Because skipping lunch while de-escalating a third-grade meltdown deserves compensation.
5. Guided Journals from Intelligent Change
A Thoughtful Pause in a Go-Go-Go Day
The Five Minute Journal or a mindfulness prompt deck helps school professionals reset, even if it’s only for a few breaths between chaos.
Why it’s perfect: It’s gentle, quick, and doesn’t assume they have an hour to “self-care.”
6. Gift Cards That Actually Help
Skip the coffee mugs. Instead, go for:
- A local coffee shop (with drive-thru)
- Costco (school supply replenishment is real)
- Therapy or wellness apps (like Headspace, Insight Timer, or Open)
Why it’s perfect: They choose what they need. You still show love.
7. A Framed Reminder That Feelings Are Welcome Here
Print and frame something simple and affirming:
- “All feelings are welcome in this room.”
- “You’re allowed to be exactly where you are today.”
- “You’re making a bigger difference than you know.”
Why it’s perfect: Because sometimes they just need to read the words they say to others and know it applies to them, too.
Let’s stop pretending that school professionals are superheroes just because they do superhero-level work. They’re humans. Exhausted, dedicated, empathetic humans, and the more we show up for them, the better they can show up for the kids we all care about.
If you want to give a gift that actually helps? Start with something that supports emotional wellness.
And hey, if you’re a teacher, counselor, or school staff member reading this:
We see you. We appreciate you. We’re rooting for you every damn day.
With love,
The Feelings Found Team
