Photo by mommyknows/flickr

Stuck for what to get your co-workers this holiday season?  If your school does a gift exchange, figuring out what to get can be challenging.  Instead of breaking the budget or getting something that would not be used, try one of the five ideas below that are perfect for any teacher and perfect for your budget.

5 Teacher Gift Ideas for Under $10

1. Cocoa and Cookies – Pick up a pretty mug at any store and line it with a clear plastic sandwich bag.  Scoop cocoa powder into the bag and fill until it is about 3/4 of the way full.  Add a scoop of mini-marshmallows to the top of the cocoa before tying the bag with a twist tie and colorful ribbon.  Place the mug in the center of an inexpensive charger plate that has been filled with homemade cookies.  Cover with decorative cellophane and tie with a ribbon.  Add a homemade ornament to the top for a fun and personal touch.
2. Teacher Survival Box – What does every teacher need?  Office supplies and a healthy dose of chocolate, of course.  Fill a box or decorative tin with a Sharpie, a pretty gel pen, a pack of fun sticky posts, a pack of stickers, a new pack of colored pencils, a dollar in quarters for the vending machine, a small bag of Hershey kisses, and any other small supplies that you can fit in the box.
3. Dips & Chips – Homemade dip mix is one of the most inexpensive, yet tasty holiday gift options.  Make up a dip mix using a recipe or create your own.  Place the mix in an inexpensive plastic container that is large enough for the recipient to mix in the sour cream or yogurt to complete the dip.  Add a small label with the directions describing how to complete the mix.  Place the dip in a basket with a bag of homemade or store bought pita or tortilla chips.  A bottle of sparkling apple cider is the perfect addition to complete the basket.
4. Pampering Basket – A decorative holiday basket or a plain basket with a colorful ribbon is the ideal container for a pampering basket.  Hit the dollar store for some fun nail polishes, lotions, and body sprays.  Add a nail polish remover, nail files, cotton balls, and a handful of chocolates to complete the gift.
5. Cook’s Canister – Fill a canister with colorful cooking tools like a spatula, slotted spoon, ladle, and any other utensils you can find that are within your budget.  If you would like to add a more personal touch to the gift, include a collection of your favorite recipes or add a stack of handmade recipe cards for the recipient.

Tip:  Inexpensive items for gift baskets can be found at dollar stores and in the $1 bins at large retailers.  Also check the clearance aisles and end caps of your favorite stores to find great deals.