Teachers work hard to help mold our children's minds and give them the tools to succeed in the complicated world around us. They teach kids everything from how to count and read to teamwork and taking care of their bodies. During the holiday season, many parents and children give gifts to the educators in their lives as a way to show appreciation for the wonderful services they provide.

If you're still trying to think of the perfect gift for your child's teacher, consider skipping the holiday trinkets and instead helping them help children by gifting them some new books. It's no secret that across the US, schools have been heavily impacted by the economy. Programs are getting cut and many teachers are providing classroom materials out of their pockets.

Giving your child's teacher a book this Christmas is not only showing her that you care about the hours of work she devotes to your child's education, both in and outside of the classroom, but it's also giving her more materials that she can use to help other kids learn and grow.

There are a couple ways that you can give your child's teacher new books for her classroom. You can go the traditional route and choose a couple books from a store or bookstore or you could give her a gift card.

The nice thing about choosing the books yourself is that your child can help pick out some selections that he or she hasn't seen in the classroom. On the other hand, giving a gift card can be helpful because the teacher can choose any book, whether it be for students to read or an educational guide. Also, if there aren't any bookstores in your area, a gift card to an online store will offer nearly endless possibilities.

Books have always been a great, thoughtful gift, no matter who the recipient is. But, at Christmas time, giving a book to a teacher can offer a sentimental token while helping her help the children she's dedicated her life to.