Valentine’s Day is one of those classroom moments that reminds us why we became teachers—the excitement of decorating mailboxes, exchanging cards, and watching students light up over a small surprise. While our students bring us joy every day, this holiday gives us a special opportunity to show them just how much they’re appreciated.
That said, the reality of teaching often means tight budgets and even tighter schedules. Between lesson planning, grading, and everything else on your plate, finding meaningful gifts for 20–30 students can feel overwhelming. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.
We’ve done the hard work for you by curating a collection of budget-friendly Valentine’s gifts that are classroom-appropriate, age-friendly, and guaranteed to bring genuine smiles—without stretching your budget.
These items will cost less than $1 per student and are listed from higher cost to $0. Every gift pairs with a printable Valentine or encouragement card that is included in this month’s Digital Downloads!
#1 Mini Play-Doh Favors (24 pack)
Approximate cost: $19
Approximate price per student: $0.80
Mini Play-Doh tubs continue to be a classroom favorite. They encourage creativity, support fine motor skills, and offer a calming sensory outlet.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4btyrdR
Printable Card: “You make my heart go SQUISH"
#2 Tic Tac Toe Game (24 pack)
Approximate cost: $15
Approximate price per student: $0.62
These tic tac toe games are perfect for quiet indoor recess, early finishers, or a fun brain break. Compact and portable, they fit easily in backpacks or desks!
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/3NMcr48
Printable Card: “You have WON my heart!”
#3 Emoji Keychains (24 pack)
Approximate total cost: $15
Approximate price per student: $0.62
Emoji keychains are a fun but practical keepsake. Students often attach them to backpacks or pencil cases, and help to easily identify their items.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4khIMvW
Insert printable idea: "You’re my favorite emoji!"
#4 Mini Puzzle Cubes (30 pack)
Approximate total cost: $16
Approximate price per student: $0.54
Mini puzzle cubes and logic toys are ideal for students who enjoy a challenge. These gifts encourage problem-solving and persistence and work well for early finishers.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/3ZI0VcC
Insert printable idea: “You CAN Do Hard Things!”
#5 Globe Stress Balls (24 pack)
Approximate total cost: $13
Approximate price per student: $0.54
Stress balls are useful tools for calming and focus, and this one is great for learning too. A great little stress reliever that’s cool to explore.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4c191EC
Insert printable card link here: "You're OUT OF THIS WORLD!”
#6 Highlighters (24 pack)
Approximate total cost: $11
Approximate price per student: $0.44
Highlighters feel like a gift rather than just a supply, especially when they come in fun or aesthetic colors. They are useful across grade levels and have staying power.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4a3pS7c
Insert printable card link here: "You're the HIGHLIGHT of our class”
#7 Colorful Fidget Spinners (24 pack)
Approximate total cost: $12
Approximate price per student: $0.45
Visual fidget spinners are an all-time favorite that many students enjoy. They are easy to use for busy bodies that may need a little calming distraction.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4qahIjp
Insert printable card link here: "Keep SPINNING toward success!"
#8 Funny Mini Finger Hand (30 pack)
Approximate total cost: $10
Approximate price per student: $0.30
Mini finger hands are silly in the best way. Students love laughing and giggling at these little gifts. Best gift for the joker teachers.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/3NOg8Gz
Insert printable card idea: “High Five for being awesome!”
#9 Chicken Slingshot (24 pack)
Approximate total cost: $7
Approximate price per student: $0.28
Squeeze-and-pop toys like chickens or rockets bring instant laughter and lighthearted fun. They are simple, battery-free, and tend to get reused rather than tossed aside.
Amazon link here: https://amzn.to/4btE5g3
Insert printable card idea: “Soaring to new heights!”
#10 Free Printable Valentine's Mazes
Approximate total cost: $0
Approximate price per student: $0
Printable activities like mini mazes are a zero-cost option that still feels thoughtful. They work well as standalone gifts or as add-ons to any physical item, like an inspirational pen or pencil!
The full set of printable Valentine and encouragement cards that pair with these Amazon gift ideas is included free with every Teacher Care Crate subscription. For teachers who prefer digital-only options, the complete set is also available through the Teacher Digi-Pack.
Teaching requires so much heart, and it shows in the care poured into even the smallest details. Those thoughtful gestures matter more than they often get credit for, and students feel them every day!
