The first weeks of May are dedicated to giving thanks to our nurses and teachers. Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4th to 10th and National Nurses Week is held from May 6th to 12th. Express your gratitude by making it a special week filled with fun, food and prizes. Need some inspiration to get started? Here are 10 ways to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week.

1. "Caught in the act" coupons: Hospital administrators or principals can give out special coupons when they notice a nurse or teacher going the extra mile. At the end of the week, the coupons can be redeemed for prizes. The person with the most coupons wins a really special gift, like a 100% Post Consumer Recycled Deluxe Urban Sling Bag. The fact that this bag is earth-friendly makes it a perfect gift for someone who already helps make the world a better place!
2. Luncheon: Hold an appreciation luncheon and treat them to a gourmet smorgasbord. Serve coffee in a mug featuring a special message commemorating the week. Let the nurses or teachers keep the mugs after the lunch is over. For instance, the 11 Oz. C-Handle Ceramic Mug can be personalized, and it comes in multiple colors. You can match the mug to your hospital's logo or your school mascot.
3. Awards ceremony: Recognize a nurse or teacher who has made an outstanding contribution by holding an awards ceremony. You can also give out fun and silly awards to get everyone involved. Ask the awards recipients to invite their families along and have a punch and cookie reception afterward.
4. Break room makeover: Give the employee break room or teacher's lounge a total makeover with fresh paint, new curtains and some cheerful decorations. If your budget allows, consider buying a new microwave, coffee maker or mini-fridge.
5. Massages: Bring in a professional masseuse for a day. Every nurse or teacher gets a 15-minute chair massage. Set aside a room for the massages and create a relaxing atmosphere with scented candles and soft music.
6. Daily gifts: Give each nurse or teacher a small gift each day for the whole week. Ask local businesses to pitch in. Teachers and nurses alike will especially appreciate travel mugs for carrying their coffee to work and back. You could order something like the 16 oz. Double Wall Stainless Steel Contoured Tumbler. Its sleek finish makes it a high-end gift at a very reasonable price.
7. Decorate: Deck out the halls with balloons, streamers and plenty of "Thank You" posters. A festive atmosphere will brighten everyone's day. You can even create a "Hall of Fame" featuring photos of the nurses or teachers.
8. Mayoral or gubernatorial proclamation: Ask your mayor or governor to declare official teacher and nurse appreciation days in your city or state.
   
9. Cookout: Grill up some burgers and hot dogs and have an outdoors BBQ for the whole staff. Don't forget the seats! Add an element of surprise by ordering some Cool Breeze Mesh Folding Chairs featuring your school or hospital's name. At the end of the cookout, hold a drawing for the chairs.
10. News story: Put your nurses and teachers in the spotlight with an article in the local paper. The American Nurses Association and the National Education Association have sample presses releases available on their websites.
    

No matter how you celebrate, the most important part of nurses and teachers appreciation weeks is to just say thank you!