To give nursery teacher cash instead of a gift?

[JS5332]

Nursery teacher who has been DS’s key worker for almost 2 years has been incredible. He needs more adult support than is typical and they have a very strong bond. We are so grateful for how much effort she has put in and the genuine love and care she has shown my DS. So my question is, would it be weird to give her cash instead of a gift when he leaves at the end of summer term to go to school in September?? I know EY teachers are woefully underpaid for what they do (IMO) so I’m thinking it would be like a cash bonus you get in other types of jobs? Or would it just be seen as really weird and inappropriate? I was thinking £250.

particularly interested in the views of any EY teachers and any ideas for gifts/alternatives if money is inappropriate. She really has done so much for DS ❤️

I think a really heart felt card listing all the ways you are super grateful/impressed by her, maybe with a photo of DS on the front would be more meaningful. I bet she’s keep it for life. A token gift, bottle of something, chocolates for the nursery staff etc too

Maybe you could ask her if she does baby sitting? Pay her over the market rate and you get to show her your appreciation and have a great sitter too.

I would check with the nursery about the regulations. Assuming this is allowed, I would load £100 onto a voucher or card for the teacher, unmarked if possible so that her colleagues won’t see it. I would donate the balance to the nursery in her name for supplies, with a letter to the head and an e-copy to her explaining your appreciation.

Perhaps JL or a nice independent local shop, which she may not usually be able to afford, for the voucher?

I'm not allowed to accept cash and anything over £50 is supposed to be refused. The equipment idea is fantastic. Co workers and I buy lots of things for nursery and would love it if a parent brought something.

I’m in a similar position OP, and am planning on buying my sons key worker a £100 voucher for the local beauty salon / Treatwell (still undecided!) so that she can pamper herself in the summer holidays.

As a teacher the highest l have got is 50. Not cash but voucher for local..nice.. restaurant/ beautician/ store.I wouldn't go higher than that but a card with a personal message is very much appreciated at the end of a busy year.

I have some good ideas now! And I think my hesitation about the cash sum was obviously not unfounded judging by the responses.

Thanks MN 😃