Every year around this time, I always have trouble meeting our monthly budget and haven't been able to figure out why. And then it dawned on me -- I'm making a ton of extra purchases as the end of the school years approaches -- buying "thank you" gifts for all the special people in my children's lives -- teachers, coaches and parent volunteers alike.
But I'm discovering that saying thank you doesn't have to break the bank -- in fact it shouldn't. We've rounded up some great, inexpensive gift ideas that are appropriate for any adult in your child's life, be it a teacher, baby sitter or activity leader. From a do-it-yourself movie night to a simple, heartfelt note, your are bound to find something that will show your appreciation.
What type of end-of-the-year gift do you give? Share your thoughts with About.com's User Answers.
More Thrifty Thursday on the About.com Parenting Channel:
- Use a Menu Planner to Save on Groceries
- Tips for Saving Money on Summer Camps
- Saving Money in Pregnancy
- Finding Money for College
- Free Audio Books
- Inexpensive Ways to Say Thank You at the End of the School Year
- Singing Science Records
- Make Saving a Game
- Summer on a Budget
- Creative Adoption Fundraising Efforts
- Dorm Move-Out Day & Summer Storage