My Teacher Love Language

If you asked my momma why her daughter became a teacher, I have a pretty strong feeling that she would chuckle a bit and say, "She loves school supplies." It's a little bit funny and a little bit true. I love school supplies. Something that I think is overlooked by many in the field of education is the value of a cute stapler or the perfect pen. It makes sense that a carpenter has a preferred brand of tools or that an electrician is partial to his favorite wire stripper. However, many times, teachers don't always treat themselves to the tools of their job that make their hearts happy. 

So, here are  my words of wisdom to keeping your "teacher tank" full:

1. Buy the pens! Get that polka-dotted stapler! Spend the extra couple bucks to get the cuter notebook. Choose to pick up the tools that will put a smile on your face each time that you use them. 
   
2. Small gestures communicate LOVE in big ways, so pay attention to your teacher friends go to supplies. Are they a flair felt tip medium pen user like me? Notice that and snag them the tropical pack next time you see it on sale. Is her room Dr. Seuss themes? Grab her those "Thing 1 & Thing 2" post-its from the dollar bin. Be the person that spreads a little bit of teacher supply love. 
   
3. Tell your students your favorite things in life and be grateful when they show up as a Christmas gift. I know so many teachers that spend lots of time, energy, and money on their students, but they feel so uncomfortable when the holidays roll around and gifts show up. Embrace it! It is how a student's parent is telling you thank you! 
4. And finally, give your kid's teacher a gift. At Christmas. During Teacher Appreciation. At random. Teachers (I think all people really) like to feel appreciated. Elementary teachers often spend more hours in a week with our kids than we do. Take the time to be thankful for them. A small gift and a quick card are and easy ways to show this. 

So, go to the nearby dollar store. Pick up that highlighter, and tell someone that they are the "bright spot" in your day. Happy living friends! :)