As a dance teacher, I can honestly say the best gifts I have ever received from my students around the holidays were hand written cards or ornaments. I adore those sloppy ornaments covered with glitter with a message saying “Best Dance Teacher.” The uglier, the better and I’m not joking. I have shoe boxes of cards from even 10 years ago from students I love to look back on every now and again. There’s nothing better a teacher can receive than a few words of appreciation to let them know their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.
However, if you do decide to actually purchase something for your dance teacher, I’m not saying that’s not appreciated as well. There are many things you can purchase a dance teacher that will be very much appreciated. If you’re having trouble deciding the perfect gift, I’ve provided some ideas that any dance teacher is sure to enjoy.
1. Gift Certificates – Dance teachers purchase all their own music and gear for class. A $10 gift certificate to the music store or iTunes makes the perfect gift. A gift certificate to your local dance supply store is also a very useful gift. Even if it’s only $10, it’s great! That $10 can purchase a pair of tights or go towards a new outfit or some dance shoes, which are very expensive. Another thing I got a lot of (which I totally love), are Dunkin Donuts gift certificates. I always come to class with iced coffee in hand.
2. Candles – Who doesn’t love candles? A pink candle, or a candle of the dance studio colors makes a great gift. I love that I never have to buy candles because I usually receive them as presents from my students.
3. Dancer Ornaments – The perfect addition to a Christmas tree! I especially love when the students make them themselves.
4. Body lotions – Lotions, sprays,soaps and bubble bath are another gift I love to receive. It’s like saying, “Here, pamper yourself!” Bath & Body Works usually has some great deals during the Christmas season where if you buy more than one item, you get a discount. So, if you have more than one teacher, it’s a great way to give a great gift as well as save some money on bulk purchasing.
5. Anything that says, “Dance Teacher.” Or, “World’s Best Dance Teacher.” Are great. One of my favorite items in my house is a small sign that says, “Dance Teachers Never Miss A Beat.” I love it.
Here are a few items I found online that your dance teacher is sure to appreciate. Any of these gifts I know myself and other teacher’s I’ve worked with would enjoy.
Dance Teacher Mugs – This link is just to one of the mug that is perfect for your dance teacher. Fill with chocolates and candies to make it extra sweet. Tie some decorative ribbon around the handle if you’d like!
Tote Bags – Dance teachers are constantly lugging stuff around. They’re typically involved in more than one dance activity. They might be on dance team and several teach at more than one studio. I love this dance bag. It says, “A dance teacher helps their students find the song in their heart, and the beat in their feet and a passion for life.” An awesome idea is to get a few students in on the purchase and have them write notes on the outside to the teacher. This bag is canvas. So, a black magic marker would work nice. It would be a gift they’d keep forever. I promise.
For Competition Dancers – If you’re on dance team and compete, this line is absolutely perfect for your dance teacher or coach. Check it out. It’s “How To Tell Time At A Dance Competition,” and includes t-shirts, totes, mugs, mousepads and more.
Snow Globes – Snow globes are great for displaying in shelves and in the classroom. The dance snow globes on this site are absolutely gorgeous and all play music. Prices start at $6.50 and go up from there.
Dance Photo Frames – A dance themed picture frame is also a great gift. Put student’s pictures in there or leave empty for the teacher to decide. And because I’m all about the personal touch, you can get a plain one from the craft store and decorate it yourself. I have a lovely one I treasure that my students made for me and put their picture in it. I’ve been displaying it for six years.
