"It's late September and I should really be back at school"

Maggie May by Rod Stewart

Hello Reader,

It's back to school time, which can bring up a lot of questions. I got an email the other day asking this:

"My child starts school for the first time next week. Should I send the teacher a gift? I'm not sure what other people do and I want the teacher to like us."

Fill out the poll at the bottom of this email with your opinion...here's mine

No. There's no need to send gifts to your child's teacher at the beginning of the school year (or any time of year for that matter!). Here's why:

• It's Expensive: Back to school time is so expensive! Between buying new school supplies, clothes, and paying out of pocket so your child can keep an extra inhaler in the nurse's office, this time of year is filled with unexpected costs. Don't put extra pressure on yourself to get everyone gifts.
• It can look like a bribe: Teachers are very wary of parents / caretakers that try to buy their appreciation. Unfortunately there are some parents that feel they can use gifts to keep their child "in favor" with their teachers. A large gift at the beginning of the year can make them feel suspicious of your intentions. If you want to send a gift in- keep it small!
• You just met: I see gifts as a way of showing appreciation and to say thank you. Wait until you know each other better and you've built some memories. The gesture will mean more later in the year.

If you're moved to send in a gift, keep it small. If you're just meeting this teacher for the first time, I'd keep it under $10 and something sweet or useful. Flair pens and nice whiteboard markers are always appreciated! If you have extra funds, send in extra school supplies or ask the teacher if they have a classroom wish list.

What's New?

🍎 Busy Season!: The next 2 weeks are going to be so much fun! It's back to school season- If you're local in Charlotte, NC catch me at The Countdown to Kindergarten Fair this Friday. This free event at the children's museum celebrates new kindergartners. I'll be leading story time and have a booth. I'll also be presenting a mini version of the School Talk Workshop at Little Learners Lit Fest on Sat 8/23. This free event is great for families and teachers.

Things I Love

📺 The Four Seasons: Funny and a little irreverent, I just finished watching The Four Seasons on Netflix. Created by Tina Fey follows four couples in their 50s. The tv comedy builds each episode with clever dialogue and situational comedy.

🫶 Your skin will thank you: Dermstore's anniversary sale continues this week. I can't believe Sunday Riley products are all 25% off, they are never on sale! The Vitamin C serum is so good and Revision Skincare bundles are 20% off.

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Have a great day! Will I see you at my next workshop?​