Every now and then I come across a discussion or comment (either in real life or on an internet forum) that stops me dead in my tracks.
The other day I read a comment where a teacher asked about a remark made by another teacher, that she would never eat any home-baked gift that was given to her and simply threw them out.
As if that was not enough to throw me for six, I was astounded by the robust online discussion that ensued.
Some of the issues that were raised included not buying home-made cakes from cake stalls, the hygiene standards of the kitchen, not eating anything from anyone unless you had intimate knowledge of their home and kitchen and so on.
Do these people ever attend a function where people bring a plate of food to share? Are their children allowed to attend birthday parties, where, heaven forbid, there may be home-made food? What about class parties at the end of term?
I can well understand people with food allergies being unable to accept food gifts but some of the other issues just seemed over-the-top to me.
I was not alone in my response as there were others (teachers and others) who said they welcomed and appreciated the home-made baking that was made and given with love.
Then the conversation headed in another direction as to the reason for giving gifts to teachers as they are ‘only doing their job’ and get paid like every other employee in any line of work.
Am I naive? What do you think? I am particularly interested to hear from teachers as well as parents who have given home-baked gifts. Will this revelation change your plans for Christmas gifts?
organised castle 
I also read that post was quite gob-smacked – I think it is a wonderful thing that children and their parents do – I have never done nor will never do Christmas gifts for teachers (just my choice, not for any specific reason) and I am sure they would be very hurt to know their gifts are thrown out – perhaps those teachers should send a note home prior to Christmas asking for ‘no gifts to be given’.
Thanks, Lynda.
Whilst my initial reaction was shock, I think there has been a benefit, as my eyes have been opened on this subject. Perhaps I have been living under a rock. 🙂
On the rare occasion when I know that hygiene is not a priority for some people,
I have not eaten home baked gifts but on most occasions I have taken the risk and survived. When a child brings a slice of their Birthday cake for me and expect you to eat it in their presence, I have also been prepared to take the risk rather than offend them. I think our stomachs are able to cope with a few harmless bugs and who is to say that some of the people who lovingly make goodies to share with others are any less careful in their preparation than we are ourselves. In short, eating food prepared by others has done me no harm.
Thanks for your reply, Marg. I’m glad to hear you have survived the home-baking. I agree that sometimes it may not be in the best interests of your health to eat them but my shock was reserved for someone who would not eat any home-baked gift. That is just unreasonable in my opinion.