Fun DIY Appreciation Gifts to Make with Kids to Thank Someone or Offer Support

"Thank you to the Secret Santa in San Juan Capistrano that left a 'survival kit for law enforcement officers' on the hood of an OCSD deputy’s car this weekend. You brought a much-needed smile to our faces! We are honored to serve the OC community and appreciate your support." – Orange County Sherrif’s Department, CA

This is another cute example that your kids can be involved in making. You can visit Kitchen Fun with my 3 Sons to download the printable.

The Whole Truth Project is dedicated to the fair treatment of police officers and often puts together bags of goodies to thank them for their service. These Lifesavers packs went to officers at Carrolton, Texas PD with a little note to express their appreciation.

A caring note of thanks left on a Denver police lieutenant’s car triggered an outpouring of emotion among officers at the San Jose Police Department. A simple act of kindness anyone can do.

Overhearing some firefighters talk about their struggles with a fire during breakfast, a waitress decided to thank them by footing the bill. Little did she know her generosity would make headlines and the firefighters would help her raise the funds she needed for her father's wheelchair. We hope you're inspired by this touching story. 

Neile Briden kicked off National Police Week with lollipops for “the days that suck!” Such a simple but effective idea!

Amy Buss made these cute gifts for her police and fire dispatcher coworkers for National Telecommunicator’s week.

For Teachers

These gorgeous ideas for all those special teachers are from Miss Candiquik who even provides the printables to help you share the love.

This teacher appreciation gift really caught my eye! Such a cute idea from Angie at The Country Chic Cottage. She even provides instructions and a free printable label. 

Which teacher wouldn't appreciate this fun (or perhaps lifesaving) gift idea from Eighteen25!! They've made it super easy for you and your kids to make one by providing a free printable note. 

Led by their amazing school counsellor, Barbara Gruener who “sprinkles kindness like confetti”, the students at Westwood-Bales wrote letters to go into care packs they assembled for the troops during their Supplies for Our Soldiers (SOS) campaign.

A thank-you platter for the labor and delivery nurses at the children’s hospital made by Coastal Cookie Shoppe.

Samantha Peffer was so grateful to the labor and delivery nurses who helped make her stay in hospital so much more pleasant.

These “open when” letters from Holly at I Solemnly Swear I’m Up To No Good are the most adorable idea. She gives full instructions on how to make them. These are a beautiful gift for your kids, husband, parents, friends, teachers or even someone deployed.

Decorate a glass jar and write notes of appreciation, encouragement and even some inspirational quotes. These can be used as gifts for teachers or service providers.

These were originally made by Ellie Roberts from Craft Sew Create to recognize teachers, but they could be just as good for any of our wonderful people who offer important services.

This adorable idea by Nicole at Visual Heart is a gift I’m sure would be treasured. All the instructions are there for you to make your own.

We’d love to hear how you thank those who help in your community. Please email photos here.