Thank You and Appreciation Ideas

Winning ways to show thanks from the team

Sports coaches, music and theater directors, and instructors do more than teach kids skills and technique. Every game, production, recital or event helps build confidence and character. (Our children may not recognize that, but we sure do.) Help the whole group say thanks in a way that hits home.

Bake smiles
Bake a batch of sugar cookies—or pick up a package in the bakery section. Let the kids each decorate one with their names, team colors or messages (anything from "thanks" to "Go Bulldogs!").

Give me a T
Start with a solid-color t-shirt and some fabric paint or pens (use school or team colors, if appropriate)—kids can add their handprints or write messages. Office supply stores carry t-shirt transfer paper that lets you make a custom design—like a team logo or the poster from a school theater production—and iron it right on to the t-shirt. Then it's easy to just let the kids sign the back.

Make your own playbook
Give every kid a blank page from a photo album. Ask them to add a photo or two, mementos (ticket stubs, programs) and a message about their favorite moments from the season, school year, production or recital.

Keep it simple and meaningful
Autograph a team or cast photo and put it in a Hallmark photo frame. Find a Keepsake Ornament that celebrates anything from teaching to football to ballet. And don't forget a card—signed by the whole group with their thanks.