The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Early Childhood Educators

Thoughtful, practical, inspiring; give gifts teachers will truly love. 

As the holidays approach, many of us look for thoughtful ways to appreciate the early childhood professionals who shape children’s lives. And while treats, candles, and yes—even mugs! —are always appreciated, the gifts educators' treasure most are the ones that continue making an impact long after the decorations come down. 

This year, think about giving a gift filled with joy, learning, and inspiration. Books go beyond the holiday moment—they’re something that education professionals can revisit whenever they need new ideas or encouragement. 

To make holiday giving a little brighter and a lot easier, we’ve put together a gift guide for teachers, administrators, and parents of young children. Each title offers something supportive, uplifting, and wonderfully practical for the year ahead. 

Gifts for Teachers

Teachers thrive when they feel supported, inspired, and equipped with tools that make their classrooms more joyful and inclusive. These titles offer exactly that. 

Partnering for Success - Ideal for teachers focused on building supportive, collaborative connections with families. This book guides educators in building meaningful, culturally responsive partnerships that support children’s learning and emotional development. A thoughtful gift for teachers who value connection and collaboration. 

Readers say: “The case study examples are relevant and relatable, offering clear illustrations of real-world applications. [This book] fills a major gap in the resources available to teachers and addresses a deeply important, often under-supported area of our work.” – Dr. Kaylee W. 

Calm and In Control - Great for educators looking for practical, heart-centered approaches to behavior guidance. The clear tools presented by Dr. Julie Tourigny help create smoother days, less stress, and a more peaceful classroom for both teachers and children. 

Get the Series! Calm and In Control is the latest book in the challenging behaviors series from Julie Tourigny—which also includes Organized and Engaged and Alert and Attentive. Together, they provide solutions and understanding for every behavior challenge an early childhood educator might encounter, with practical tips from an occupational therapist’s toolkit. 

Thinking Outside the Prize Box - Finally—creative, relationship-based alternatives to rewards and incentives! 

Packed with humor, heart, and fresh ideas, this book from Dr. Adam Holland offers creative, relationship-centered alternatives to rewards and incentives. It helps teachers shift from sticker-based motivation to authentic engagement—making behavior guidance feel lighter, more joyful, and far more meaningful. A delightful gift for teachers ready to inspire intrinsic motivation with a smile. 

Readers say: “I truly wish I had this book when I first stepped into the classroom—it would’ve changed everything. “ -Alexis M. 

Nurturing Neurodiversity - Brand new this month! A heartfelt, strengths-based guide to supporting neurodivergent learners with dignity and respect. This book helps teachers create environments where every child feels understood, valued, and capable. A powerful gift for educators committed to inclusion. 

Customers say: “Sarah Taylor Vanover offers practical, compassionate strategies that feel both achievable and empowering, whether you’re an educator, caregiver, or devoted family member.” -Monica C. 

Gifts for Administrators 

 Program leaders appreciate gifts that lighten their load, strengthen their programs, and support educators and families. These practical, high-impact resources do just that. 

Don’t Look Away - A must-have for leaders committed to advancing equity in their schools. This book offers clear frameworks, reflective questions, and actionable steps to build programs where every child and family feels they belong. A meaningful gift for today’s thoughtful administrators. 

Customers say: “This is an important book for all folks involved in early childhood education, especially white educators. This would be a great book to read as a school or center; the exercises inside would be great to do as a team.”- CT 

Preschool Preparedness for an Emergency - Safety is an act of love—and this book gives leaders the peace of mind they’re seeking. From natural disasters to everyday incidents, this guide helps programs build strong, comprehensive preparedness plans. A practical, confidence-boosting gift for any administrator. 

Check out the series! Andrew Roszak has 3 books on the topic of preschool preparedness for emergencies, natural disasters, and active shooters. 

Customers say: “Life-saving recommendations are easy to understand and informative. The section on conducting drills is especially helpful! This book is one-of-a kind and should be required reading for all preschools!” -LK 

The Early Childhood Director’s Guide to Solving Everyday Challenges - Packed with real-world strategies, templates, and tools, this resource supports directors through the daily puzzles of staffing, communication, conflict resolution, and operations. The perfect gift for the leader who “does it all.” 

Gifts for Parents

Parents of young children love gifts that spark creativity, connection, and joyful learning at home. These titles make thoughtful stocking stuffers or meaningful presents for caregivers. 

Preschool Art - A classic favorite from author MaryAnn Kohl, and for good reason—this book is filled with open-ended, process-based art experiences that truly celebrate creativity. A perfect gift for parents who want to nurture imagination without complicated prep or fancy materials. (See a video from MaryAnn on why it's a great holiday gift!)

Customers say: “Using many items found around the house such as foil, buttons, old CDs, duct tape, magazines, paper plates, etc, these projects are great for those who want to do art but don’t want to break the bank in the process.” -Patrice F. 

Empowering Your Child to Fly - This warm, encouraging guide from Jani Kozlowski helps parents strengthen their children’s resilience, self-confidence, and emotional well-being. A heartfelt gift for any caregiver raising a child in today’s complex world. 

 Customers say: “It is just the book I wish I could've had at the beginning of my parenting journey and I can still use it here 11 years in. It is such a thorough, thoughtful text - generous, practical, and insightful.” -Leah M. 

Banish Boredom -  Packed with playful, screen-free ideas for active learning at home, this book is a lifesaver for busy parents. A fun, practical gift for families who want to turn ordinary moments into meaningful memories. 

Wrap up the season with meaningful gifts! 

This year, give the early childhood educators and families in your life something they’ll truly treasure—books that uplift their work, spark new ideas, and brighten their days long after the holidays end. 

Looking for more inspiration? Visit our Holiday Gift Collection for even more joyful, thoughtful gift ideas.