The Ultimate Guide to Back-to-School Gift Ideas for Teachers, Students, and Parents
As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it’s time to start thinking about back-to-school preparations. Whether you're a teacher, student, or parent, having the right supplies and gifts can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Etsy, with its vast array of unique, handmade items, offers some of the best back-to-school ideas and is my go-to for handmade and unique gifts. This gift guide will explore the best back-to-school gifts, focusing on savings, supplies, and classroom essentials under $50, as well as personalized gift ideas for teachers and students.
*Items from the above gift guide image are linked at the end of this article.
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Back-to-School Savings
Budget-Friendly Finds on Etsy
Etsy is a treasure trove of budget-friendly back-to-school items. You can find everything from custom notebooks to personalized pencils that won't break the bank. Many shops offer discounts and bundles, making it easy to find quality items at a fraction of the cost. Be on the look out for shops that offer free shipping or discounts for bulk orders, especially useful for teachers looking to stock their classrooms.
Etsy Coupons and Etsy Promo Codes
Many Etsy shops offer promo codes and coupons, especially as the back-to-school season ramps up. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite shops can also give you access to exclusive deals and early bird discounts. Much like our Art 2 the Extreme® newsletter, shops love sharing new products to be released before August. Keep an eye out for Etsy’s seasonal sales events, where you can snag great deals on back-to-school essentials during the months of July, August, and September.
Back-to-School Ideas and Supplies
Personalized Notebooks and Planners
One of the most popular back-to-school gifts on Etsy are personalized notebooks and planners. These make great start of school gifts for students and help keep them organized throughout the year. Choose from a variety of designs, from minimalist to colorful and fun, and add names or motivational quotes to make students feel extra special.
Custom Pencils and Pens
Custom pencils and pens are practical and thoughtful gifts that students will use daily. You can find pencils engraved with students' names, inspirational messages, or even fun designs. These small yet meaningful items can make a big difference in a student's school day.
Art Supplies
For the budding artists, Etsy offers a range of unique art supplies. From custom crayon names to hand-painted pencil cases, these items are sure to inspire creativity. Art 2 the Extreme®, for example, provides a fantastic selection of custom crayons that make wonderful back-to-school student gifts. You can find our custom crayon collection on Etsy or shop with quicker savings and quicker shipping by shopping direct on our main crayon shop website.
Personalized Gift Ideas for Teachers
Custom Tote Bags
Teachers carry a lot of supplies to and from school, and a sturdy tote bag can make this task easier. Etsy offers a variety of custom tote bags that can be personalized with the teacher’s name, a favorite quote, or even a custom illustration. These bags are both practical and stylish, making them a perfect gift.
Personalized Mugs
A personalized mug is a classic gift that teachers will appreciate. Whether it’s for their morning coffee or afternoon tea, a custom mug with their name or a heartfelt message will brighten their day. Etsy has a wide selection of mugs, from simple designs to more elaborate ones with hand-painted details. As a former teacher, I personally like to fill my mugs with a gift card and candy for that “above and beyond” gift addition. Mugs are awesome, but an Etsy gift card to pair is even better!
Custom Stamp Sets
Teachers often need to mark papers, and a custom stamp set can add a personal touch to their grading process. You can find stamps with phrases like “Great Job!” or “Please Correct and Return,” as well as stamps with the teacher’s name or a custom design. These make grading papers a bit more fun and personalized.
Handmade Jewelry
For a more personal touch, consider gifting handmade jewelry. Etsy has a plethora of options, from personalized name necklaces to custom bracelets. These pieces can be customized with the teacher’s initials, name, or even the school’s name. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for all they do. My personal favorite go-to shop for jewelry is Jill Makes. I own several pieces including this necklace, these earrings, and this bracelet!
What Are Some Personalized Gift Ideas for Teachers?
Personalized gifts show that you’ve put thought and care into your selection, and Etsy is the perfect place to find these special gifts. Here are a few more personalized gift ideas for teachers:
Personalized Sticky Notes Holder
Sticky notes are a classroom staple, and a personalized way to display and store them with a special touch. Teachers use a sticky note for reminders, notes to students, or marking important pages. You can find personalized sticky note holders in a variety of colors and designs on Etsy, many of which can be personalized with the teacher’s name or a custom message.
Custom Bookmarks
For teachers who love to read, custom bookmarks make a thoughtful gift. These can be personalized with the teacher’s name, a favorite quote, or even a design that reflects their interests. Etsy offers bookmarks in various materials, including wood, metal, and leather, ensuring you can find one that suits the teacher’s style.
Back to School Student Gifts
Personalized Backpacks
A personalized backpack is a fantastic first day of school gift for kids. Etsy offers a wide range of backpacks that can be customized with the student’s name or initials. These backpacks are available in various colors and designs, making it easy to find one that matches the child's personality. Want to be a little more low-key? Custom patches or personalized keychains might be the way to go for a child as well!
Custom Lunchboxes
Make lunchtime fun with a custom lunchbox. These can be personalized with the student’s name and come in various designs, from superheroes to animals. A personalized lunchbox ensures that their lunch is always easy to identify and adds a touch of excitement to their school day. If you are looking for a more plain, but colorful option, these lunchboxes by WAAMIndustries are my favorite and eco-friendly.
Personalized Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is important, and a personalized water bottle is a great way to encourage this. Etsy has a wide selection of water bottles that can be customized with names, favorite colors, or even fun designs. These bottles are durable and perfect for class use. If you have a favorite water bottle already such as a special Stanley brand water bottle or Owala water bottle, custom water bottle stickers will be the way to personalize!
Personalized T-Shirts
Personalized T-shirts make great back-to-school gifts and can be worn on the first day of school to make a statement. These T-shirts can be customized with the student’s name, grade, or a fun design. Etsy offers a variety of options, ensuring you can find the perfect T-shirt for any student.
Art 2 the Extreme’s Back to School Gift Guide
Art 2 the Extreme® has created a comprehensive gift guide featuring some of the best back-to-school gifts available on Etsy and beyond over the past few back-to-school season. This guide includes everything from creating custom crayon names to personalized notebooks and college planners. It’s the perfect resource for finding unique and thoughtful gifts to celebrate the start of school season from the Etsy Gifting Guru herself!
- Pencil and Rainbow Ball Garland by WoolJamboree
- Personalized Acrylic Name Keychain by JillMakes
- Giant Letter K Rainbow Crayon by Art2theExtreme
- Pencil Bow Tie by Xoelle
- First Day of Pennant Flag by byCamiMonet
- First day of School Sign by MapleandBlissCo
- Custom Notebooks by BeenThereTaughtThat
- Personalized Pens by MReneeArtandDesign
- Custom First Day of School Shirt by NKKApparel
- Acrylic Monthly Dry Erase Calendar for Wall By GirlFridayAcrylics
School Gifts Highlights
In conclusion, back-to-school preparations are made easier and more enjoyable with the unique and personalized gift options available on Etsy. Whether you’re shopping for teachers, students, or parents, you can find thoughtful and practical gifts that will make the first day of school and the entire school year special. With Art 2 the Extreme®’s gift guide, discovering the perfect back-to-school gifts has never been easier.
Don't forget to leave room to buy a custom name set for Estelle, Leonard, Lou, Chas, or another challenge of unique names to spell! Ready to get started with a custom crayon order? Head on over to our crayon shop for colorful and personalized crayon gifts they will love to gift their friends for the new school year!
We Share More Finds!
Are you a teacher, ready to prepare for the new school year? Check out the Clear the List 2024 post where you can enter your Amazon wish lists, books needed for your classroom, and more fun school gifts for your young students.
If your favorite color is purple and you are an elementary teacher or art teacher, you might like our post about the upcoming Harold and the Purple Crayon movie film. I am a huge fan of the executive producers and the end credits can't be missed. Check out the world of Harold and the Purple Crayon movie and Art 2 the Extreme's purple crayon party page.
Looking for more back to school ideas for a student? Check out our additional gift guide!
