National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 11. Dating back to 1972, this special day of recognition began with the hopes of providing a better understanding of the role that school nurses play in the educational setting.  In a message posted on The National Association of School Nurses, NASN, its President describes the day as “a time to celebrate the nursing profession and the specialty of school nursing”.

For  Sandi Delack’s full message, http://www.nasn.org/Default.aspx?tabid=70.

So what is the best way to show your appreciation for the special person who holds this vital role in your child’s school?  There are many ideas and while this year’s theme is Vision, Voice, Visibility: Sail Toward Healthy Horizons, it is not necessary to gear your gift towards that.  Here are some ideas that I have…

Stop by his or her office just to say Thank you! 

• This small effort will go a long way; nurses seldom get to interact with parents unless their children are sick.

Bake a batch of cookies

• If time is tight, use a mix or stop at the local bakery.

Send a Thank you card

• As I suggested for teacher appreciation week, have the kids decorate if possible.  To incorporate the theme, decorate with boat or other nautical stickers.

• Be sure to provide specific examples of when he or she helped your family.  (It could be as simple as, “Our family would like to thank you for the comfort you provide us. We feel confident that our child’s health and well being are a priority because you are there!”

An Oversized Thank You

• Decorate the Clinic door for all to see. Cover the door with a solid colored background.  (Rolled paper works best) Then with colorful band-aids spell out the words, THANK YOU! 

• Ask a few of the kids and parents you know to share positive experiences they have had.  Type or write out the comments on various colored paper cutouts to complete the door.

• If time does not allow for quotes, attach a sharpie to the door and encourage staff and children to write their comments throughout the day.

I realize that time and money are tight but I am hopeful that these suggestions are easy and frugal enough to allow you to implement at least one.  Because we must remember that, “silent gratitude isn’t much use to anyone” (quote by G.B.Stern).

For additional recognition ideas:

http://www.nasn.org/Default.aspx?tabid=422

http://www.ehow.com/list_6301619_national-nurse-day-gift-ideas.html

http://www.thank-you-note-examples-wording-ideas.com/nurse-appreciation-week.html