Christmas gift for childcare staff: what do you give the childcare workers?

Many parents like to give something to the childcare workers at their child's nursery or daycare at the end of the year. But… what's actually the norm?
Do you give something individually or as a group? How much should you spend? And what do staff members really appreciate?
This blog gives you clear answers and plenty of inspiration, so you can choose a thoughtful Christmas gift without the stress.

Why do parents give a Christmas gift?

Childcare workers play a huge role in your child's life. They comfort, guide, support development, and are there for your child while you're at work or studying. A small gift feels like a lovely way to say "thank you" for the whole year.
While it's not expected, recent parent forums suggest that many parents do give something around the holidays (source: Ouders van Nu Forum, Babybytes, Reddit NL).
It's not about the value of the gift — it's about showing your appreciation.

Who should you actually give something to?

This is something many parents wonder about. The most common approach is to give something to the staff in your child's group. It's also worth thinking about substitute workers, assistants, or interns — you could optionally include them too.
For after-school care (BSO), parents often give a gift to the staff members their child spends the most time with.
If you're unsure, ask other parents or a staff member how it's usually handled in your group.

But should you give an individual gift or a group gift? Both options work well — each has its pros and cons.

Individual gift

• This feels more personal and is especially meaningful for staff who work closely with your child.
• Pro: you can tailor the gift to a specific staff member.
• Con: if everyone gives individually, staff can end up with an overwhelming number of small items.

Group gift

• Ideal for parents who prefer to give something practical and a little more substantial.
• Pros: everyone chips in — say €5 each — so you can get something genuinely nice, rather than a pile of trinkets for the staff.
• Con: it takes a bit of organising. You can easily coordinate this through the parents' WhatsApp group.

In general, more and more parent groups are opting for one shared gift.

How much do parents typically spend?

There are no official guidelines for this 😉. It's entirely voluntary, of course. But what do parents actually do?
Based on recent parent forums and social media groups, €5–€15 per staff member is the most common range. For group gifts, parents often contribute €5 per family — which adds up to a more generous budget depending on the size of the group.

Some parents give a little more (€20–€30) if their child required extra or intensive care, but this is by no means expected or the norm.

In short: anything between €5 and €15 is perfectly fine. It really is the thought that counts.

What do childcare workers actually enjoy receiving?

• Gift vouchers: think local — a bakery, florist, or gift shop
• Luxury treats such as chocolates or pralines
• Self-care items like a shower or bath gift set
• Shared gifts: something the whole team can enjoy together, like a team lunch voucher or a coffee and tea hamper for the staff room

Many childcare workers say they're less keen on small novelty items, such as mugs, keyrings, or cheap knick-knacks.

Looking for something a bit more original? Here are a few more ideas:

• A gift voucher for a local bakery or coffee shop
• A small self-care package (tea, a snack, hand cream, etc.)
• A Christmas card with a drawing made by your child
• A beautiful or personalised Christmas bauble with the group's name on it
• A small plant with a card

Tips to keep it simple

• Ask in the parents' WhatsApp group if someone wants to organise a group gift
• Keep gifts neutral and appropriate (avoid alcohol or strong fragrances, for example)
• Skip the clutter — choose something small but good quality
• Be mindful of allergies when giving food or edible gifts
• Think about what you'd genuinely enjoy receiving yourself — and actually use

Finally: it's about appreciation, not the price tag

A Christmas gift for childcare staff really doesn't need to be big or expensive. A small gesture or a heartfelt card can mean the world to childcare workers. What matters most is showing that you value what they do — that's what will make them truly happy.