Teacher Gifts, Class Parties & Pinterest Pressure: Moms vs. December

The moment the calendar hits December 1st, school life basically turns into a holiday-themed circus — and somehow, we’re always the unpaid ringmaster.

Class parties. Teacher gifts. Spirit week. Secret Santa. Pajama day. And let’s not forget the dreaded “Can you just bring one small thing?” request that magically becomes a 7-step Pinterest craft.

But here’s the truth we all need to hear:

✨ Being a good mom does not require making reindeer-shaped fruit kabobs.

Why school December is six months long

Between juggling schedules, remembering dress-up days, and trying to not forget the gift bags you worked on until midnight — the mental load is heavy. And most of it? Invisible. Automatic. Expected.

We want our kids to feel included. We want to support teachers who genuinely deserve the world. We want to look like we’ve got our life together.

But we also want a nap. And maybe a date night. And a glass of wine before 4pm.

Teacher gifts that don’t require a craft degree

Let’s simplify, shall we?

Here are ideas teachers actually love:

• Gift cards (Target, Amazon, Starbucks)

• Nice hand lotion or cozy blankets

• A handwritten note from your child (THEIR FAVORITE)

• A donation to the classroom wishlist

• Chocolate + no glitter (unless you hate them 😆)

Keep it easy. Keep it thoughtful. Keep your sanity.

Holiday boundaries moms are allowed to have

You can say:

• “We’re keeping it simple this year.”

• “I can send plates, not homemade cupcakes.”

• “No, I will not be gluing googly eyes to string cheese.”

Your peace matters more than impressing a PTA Karen.

If December feels like too much…

It’s because… it is. You’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re not less-than.

You’re a mom doing your best in a month that demands too much.

🖤 KO Truth: “Done is better than perfect — always.”

XO,

K+O