The End Of The Year Teacher's Presents

We absolutely love our son's teacher.

That is why I have been trying to come up with some ideas for a gift to give her at the end of the year.
I think that homemade gifts are the most sincere.

Here's what we did last year.


"Thanks for Helping Me Grow" Flower Pot

Materials to gather:

1 terra cotta flower pot
various colors of paint
paint brushes
glue
scissors
card stock or construction paper
small picture of child
popcicle stick or wooden skewer
potting soil
flower
Ribbon (optional)


Step 1: Paint Flower Pot



We used acrylic paint that I have been collecting for years from clearance bins.
For a palette we used the lid to an old sour cream container.
And newspaper (we all have lots of that right) under for easy cleanup.



A tip to make sure the kids clothes stay clean is to use a large old t-shirt (we used one of my husbands) and secure the back with a rubber band so it fits more snugly. (if you don't have a rubber band a chip clip or clothes pin also work well).

Step 2: Let It Dry Completely




I find this to be a good time give the kids a good scrub and a snack.


Step 3 : Fill Pot With Dirt and Plant Flower



Do this outside. Really, lets just say I have seen first hand what happens when you don't.


Step 4: Cut Out and Glue

Take the card stock and draw a simple flower shape. Have kids cut it out.

Take picture of child and glue it so it becomes the center of the flower.

Write (or have the kids write) Thanks For Helping Me Grow around the picture.

Take popcicle stick or skewr and tape flower to the top.

Stick paper flower in pot.

Put ribbon on for decoration (if desired). I got mine in a package of ten or so at a thrift store. I think the whole package cost about .50.

Step 5: Give It To Your Favorite Teacher

My son's teacher loved getting it. And my son was proud of himself for making it.

Any suggestions for what to do for his teacher this year?