an image with layer pictures of different gift ideas for teachers for back to school

Gift Guide: Back-to-School Teacher Gifts That Inspire & Brighten Classrooms

Back-to-school season isn’t just about sharpened pencils and fresh lesson plans—it’s also the perfect time to celebrate the amazing teachers who make it all happen. They spend their days inspiring, organizing, and creating magic in classrooms… so why not start their year with a thoughtful, fun gift that says “we appreciate you”?

We’ve put together a teacher-approved gift guide that’s equal parts practical and playful. Whether you’re shopping for your child’s teacher, a coworker, or a friend, these ideas will brighten their classroom (and their day).


Good Things Grow Here Coloring Book

good things grow here adult colouring book

Teaching is rewarding, but it’s also stressful. A coloring book made for mindfulness gives them a relaxing way to recharge.

Upcycled Kanso Pots

a set of three up-cycled/recycled Kanso design pots with natural textures with houseplants in them with green foliage on a white background

Stylish and sustainable, these eco-friendly pots are a win-win. Great for plants, supplies, or just showing off that earthy-chic vibe in the classroom.

Kanso Design Mini Planters

a set of three Kanso designs 3 inch planters in a pastel yellow, faded coral, and beachwood color with small houseplants with green foliage planted in them on a white background

Small but mighty! These modern mini planters are perfect for desks and can hold a cheerful plant to boost classroom vibes.

Moisture Meter

a hot pink moisture meter in a houseplant with velvety green foliage in a mustard yellow pot with a mint green background

Watering guesswork? Gone. A moisture meter helps teachers keep their plants happy and thriving, even in busy classrooms.

Peace Lily Plant

a picture of a peace lily plant in a green nursery pot being held by a man and a woman with a white background

Forgiving, beautiful, and air-purifying—the Peace Lily is basically the teacher’s pet of the plant world. Gorgeous white blooms + resilience = classroom perfection.

Pet Treats for Cats and Dogs

a picture of a catnip toy that looks like a mushroom a picture of a bag of cat and dog treats that are pork and cheese flavored with a mustard yellow background and a cheeseburger in the background

Teachers are people too (shocking, we know 😉). If they’ve got pets, throw in catnip toys or dog treats—it’s a sweet way to show you thought of their whole family.

Cat-Themed Notepad

a picture of a set of notepads that are cat lover themed on a white background

Cute, quirky, and perfect for any cat lover jotting down reminders, lesson plans, or doodles between classes. 

Gift Card

an image with a dark forest green back ground with purple leaves down the centre and the Urbane eight logo icon in the centre in a lighter green/teal color

When in doubt, give them the power of choice. Whether they use it for classroom goodies or a little self-care, it’s always appreciated. E-gift cards available!

Colorful Jungle Supply Pot

a picture of a set of three mustard yellow pots in three different sizes with a houseplant in the middle sized planter with green foliage and pink bloom at the top on a vanilla white background

Because every classroom deserves a splash of color! These bold pots brighten up any plant and add instant cheer.

Beginner-Friendly Plants

a picture of a woman holding a black raven zz houseplant wearing a white button up t shirt with a white background

Think pothos, ZZ plants, or snake plants—low-maintenance but high reward. Perfect for classrooms that need green life without the stress.


Why These Gifts Rock

Teachers do so much more than we ever see. Giving them a thoughtful gift at the start of the year not only shows appreciation—it sets a positive tone for the months ahead. Plants and plant-inspired gifts are especially great because they bring life, reduce stress, and make classrooms more inviting for both teachers and students.

So this year, skip the mug and go for something that truly grows with them with Urbane Eight.

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