How much should I tip my daughter's daycare "teachers"?

Question

In the past I've given a week's tuition divided among the two class "teachers". This year I've been less than thrilled with the performance of the teachers (last year it was well above average, this year it's just average) But I also know they don't make much. My daughter only attends part-time, 2 half days a week.

I should clarify--while I think of it as a tip, we are being encouraged to contribute towards a Gift Card for the teachers for the holidays. So it's a gift for the holidays.

Yikes! Just so you all don't think I'm totally nuts:
http://money.cnn.com/pf/features/lists/holiday_tipping/

http://www.mannersmith.com/mm/issue.cfm?id=12

Answer 1

Just give them each a $15 gift card

Answer 2

I was a day care teacher, only for a couple of years, but with a Private Pre-School. Not at any time did we get tipped? In fact, I think if I did, I wouldnt have accepted it. Teachers dont get paid the best, however, they certainly arent like other people in the service industry. I would think that a small gift from the child would certainly be more sentimental, than a gift of money. Teachers are very special creatures, and they teach for the love of children. I personally loved each and every one of my kids, and cried at the end of each year, when I knew they wouldnt be in my class anymore. I still have many of the gifts that they gave me, and remember them when I see them. Money is great too, however easily put in the pocket book and spent easily. A gift is so much more treasured!

Answer 3

I worked in daycare for years and never witnessed any tipping.
When I read you question I thought that I was out of the loop about such matters because the last time I babysat was about 12 years ago still I only recieved the agreed upon wage never a tip. Only after reading the other answers was when I put my anger down. Generally a sincere "THANK YOU" works for a job well done. At only 2 half days a week they should be "thanking" you.

Answer 4

I don't think they should receive a tip at all. I think tip are for people in the service industry mostly. If you are talking about like a end of year or holiday bonus I say give a small gift. Like a coffee mug gift set. Something small from your daughter.

Answer 5

I have never heard of "tipping" unless you were a waitress, waiter, in that field. They make what the Daycare owner hired them to make. I know I was paying $440 every two weeks, for one kid... They took the job, if they want more money, or a dinner card, then let their boss give it to them... don't feel guilty about it either. Imagine this, and she only attens 2 1/2 days per week? For average performance? Forget about it...

Answer 6

If you want to "chip in" on a gift for the holidays from the children,thats fine,but I've never heard of tipping a teacher.They pick their proffesion like everyone else,and are aware of of the pay scale when they do so.However this only MY opinion.Good luck with your decision.

Answer 7

I would say about $50 bucks each but then agian you are only part -time give them $25

Answer 8

I've never heard of tipping daycare teachers

Answer 9

No money, instead bake them some cookies, bring them some flowers, or give them some other thoughtful appropriate gift.

Answer 10

thelaundryfairy was completely right in my opinion. just a small gift would do it.