Over the years, I have organized many staff appreciation efforts—from pizza parties to parking spots, to bonuses and "Teacher of the Month" programs. However, one of the most impactful gestures I’ve found is something much simpler—a handwritten note. These small, personal messages can make a world of difference in boosting morale and showing your staff that you truly care. I want to share two stories that highlight the power of a handwritten note, one from the giving side and one from the receiving side.
Michelle: A Teacher’s Story of Appreciation
I had a teacher named Michelle who worked with me for 14 years, long before I became the owner of the center. At that time, she was a school-age teacher, and she brought so much energy and passion to her role. Michelle had a unique spirit—she was full of life, loved music, and always managed to make me smile. There were many days, though, when she tried her best to be grumpy, but my positive attitude always broke through, and soon enough, her tough exterior would melt away.
At the time, Michelle was going through a lot at home, and I could sense that the struggles she faced outside of work were affecting her inside the classroom. Despite her personal challenges, she continued to show up and give her best to the kids. I made it a point to stay personally connected with my staff, and I would take time each week to write personal notes on their paychecks. These notes could be anything—a motivational quote, a simple smiley face, or even a little sticker. Sometimes, I’d add a small treat, like a candy bar (Payday was her favorite!), taped to the envelope.
Michelle was always excited to get her paycheck, not just for the money, but because she never knew what small surprise or kind word I would include. It was these little notes that meant the most to her. One day, Michelle shared something that really struck me: she told me she had kept many of the paycheck notes I wrote over the years because they meant so much to her. It was in that moment that I realized the true power of a handwritten note. Just taking a few extra minutes to show that I cared made a lasting impact on her.
Even though Michelle no longer works in the field, we remain close friends. That simple act of writing a note became the foundation for a lifelong friendship.
The Handwritten Note That Changed My Life
Now, on the other side of things, I want to share a story about receiving a handwritten note—a note that truly changed the trajectory of my life.
In my time as a director, I met many other childcare directors and owners. One particular center owner, Maryanne, became a mentor to me. Every year without fail, she would send me a Thanksgiving card with a handwritten note inside, along with a small Dunkin’ gift card. At that time, I was at a point in my career where I felt I had reached my limit—there didn’t seem to be much room for growth. I was longing for a change but didn’t know where to turn.
It was during one of those Thanksgiving seasons that I received one of her notes. It couldn’t have come at a better time. In her note, she shared some words of encouragement and mentioned that she was launching a new program across multiple locations. She offered me a position to help her with that launch. I don’t think I can emphasize enough how perfect that note came at the right time in my life. It gave me the courage to make the move to a new opportunity that ultimately led to me starting my own daycare center.
Without that handwritten note from Maryanne, I may never have made the leap. I wouldn’t have gained the experience that eventually led me to become the owner of multiple childcare centers, start a podcast, write books, and pursue other exciting endeavors. It may sound unbelievable, but it all started with someone recognizing that I needed more and offering me a chance. Sometimes, it’s just that one little note that can spark a huge change in your life, as it did for me.
The Power of Handwritten Notes: Why They Matter
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to overlook the power of a simple handwritten note. We’re used to quick emails, text messages, and digital reminders. But when it comes to showing genuine appreciation for your teaching staff, few things have the same impact as a heartfelt, handwritten message.
A handwritten note is personal, meaningful, and shows that you took the time to connect on a deeper level. It is the small gestures, like these notes, that can make a world of difference when it comes to boosting teacher morale and fostering a positive workplace culture. Here’s why those little handwritten messages matter—every day, not just on special occasions.
A Personal Touch in a Digital World
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with texts, emails, and notifications, a handwritten note stands out. It’s personal, and it requires more effort than typing a message on a screen. When a teacher receives a handwritten note, it shows that you took the time to think of them, not just as a colleague but as an individual.
This personal connection speaks volumes. Teachers can tell when they are truly appreciated, and it’s often the handwritten, heartfelt notes that leave the most lasting impression. When was the last time you received a handwritten message? Remember how special it made you feel? Now, imagine the power of that feeling for your teachers, especially when it’s not tied to a holiday or an end-of-year celebration, but given spontaneously to show appreciation for their everyday efforts.
The Small Details That Touch the Heart
It's easy to assume that grand gestures or expensive gifts are the best way to show appreciation. However, the reality is that the smallest details often have the greatest impact on people’s hearts. Teachers are dedicated professionals who give their best every day, not just during Teacher Appreciation Week or on their birthday. They show up with passion, energy, and a commitment to their students, often with little recognition or reward.
A handwritten note doesn’t cost much—maybe just a few minutes of your time—but it speaks volumes about how you see and value their work. A simple “Thank you for your dedication” or “I appreciate the way you handle the challenges with grace” can brighten a teacher’s day and make them feel recognized and appreciated.
By consistently acknowledging their efforts in this thoughtful way, you remind your staff that you notice the little things they do—whether it’s staying late to help a student or coming up with a creative lesson plan. When teachers feel seen and valued, it can have a profound effect on their motivation, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.
Creating a Culture of Appreciation and Trust
When you regularly take the time to write personalized notes to your teachers, you build a culture of appreciation and trust within your school or childcare center. Teachers, just like anyone else, thrive in environments where they feel supported and acknowledged. A handwritten note fosters trust because it feels more genuine than a generic email or a quick, impersonal comment. By making it a habit to send a note of appreciation or encouragement, you contribute to a workplace where teachers feel like their hard work matters and is seen. It builds a positive feedback loop: teachers who feel appreciated are more likely to pass that feeling on to their students and colleagues. A culture of appreciation fosters collaboration, boosts morale, and can even reduce staff burnout.
The Lasting Impact
One of the most powerful aspects of a handwritten note is its lasting impact. Teachers often keep these notes in their desks or pin them to their bulletin boards as reminders of why they do what they do. They may revisit these notes when they are feeling down, tired, or discouraged. In fact, it’s not uncommon for teachers to keep thank-you notes for years—sometimes even after they've moved on to new positions. These notes serve as physical reminders of the gratitude and respect they earned, and they help boost their spirits during challenging times. In a profession that’s as demanding as teaching, having those small, tangible reminders of appreciation can make all the difference.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
The best part about handwritten notes is the ripple effect they can create. When one teacher receives a note of appreciation, they feel good about their work, and they’re more likely to pay that appreciation forward. A teacher who feels valued is more likely to pass on kindness to their students, their peers, and even the families they work with. This ripple effect can extend far beyond the walls of your school or childcare center. It sets a tone of positivity and respect that can improve relationships, enhance collaboration, and even impact student outcomes. By making appreciation a part of the everyday routine, you foster a healthier, more supportive work environment that everyone benefits from.
Want to Learn More?
This is just one of the many strategies that can help set you apart when you're building your work culture. If you're looking to take your staff appreciation practices to the next level and build a supportive, empowered team, join our weekly coaching program for strategy sessions. You’ll work with like-minded childcare directors who understand that people are the heart of your business.
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Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create a culture of appreciation, reduce burnout, and foster an environment where your teachers thrive! Join us today!
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