My kids are full-time. I gave the main teachers $25 and the helpers $10. $10 doesn't sound like much but they get gifts from other people too so it does add up. I would love to get $10 off something for myself. I think it's nice.
Yes, $10 is cheap. Spring for a little more , it won't put you in the poorhouse. These people care for your child - pull some money from other less important peoples' presents if need be.
dd's main teacher and the director are getting $25 GCs, the assistants (grad students) are getting $15 GC... and dd and I are making cinnamon ornaments for them. maybe add a little homemade something with it. we made peppermint bark one year. it was easy and yummy.
Re: Am I being cheap?