Gifts for Therapists and Aids

[mommyrants]

Last year - DS had two therapists and I gave them each $25 gift cards. This year he has an OT and a ST at home and at school, plus a pre-K teacher and 2 FT Aids in his room.

How do I divvy this up?

 

[happily single]

I would give each a $5.00 gift card and a small gift, like a small box of the whitman candy. Of course, if the child is able to, have them complete the card that goes along with the gift

 

[Schmeck]

We have a legal limit to the amount an employee can accept at our school district. Something like $30 or so? Anyways, I'd check to see if the school your son goes to has a similar arrangement.

As an aide myself, I really don't expect gifts from my students or their families. I get paid to do my job, get sick days, personal days, health insurance, etc. A nice note or card from the family would be great, to know I was appreciated and thought of, but this is a tough economy, and many families are having a hard time providing for themselves as it is.

How about a homemade card, or a store bought one with a bit of extra love (glitter and stickers are a fav with my students) for the aides, and a small gift to the class, like some art supplies? We're always scrounging for supplies!

 

[bookwormde]

I agree a nice personal gift particularly if made or selected by the child is the best. Also a letter to the administrators about the impact the para has had on impoving your child's life (both now and how if will in the future) is a nice "silent" gift and goes a long way to supporting the broader program also.

Same for anyone else who has had a positive impact on your child's life. The people who help our children are not in it for the material benefit, so letting them know how much thier efforts are appriciated and valued is the most important thing.

bookwormde

 

[mommyrants]

Thanks - we are in the Chicago Public School system, so I don't think there is a limit on gifts. DS is in a self contained PRE-k and is only 3 - so the gift giving is on me. I think the $5 GC with a note will be the way to go. I need to fit 5 of them in his teeny backpack for the bus.

Thanks for the ideas!