Ho-Ho! Ha-Ha!

There’s no avoiding it: As the holidays approach, your classroom elves will arrive at your desk, bearing gifts of apple-scented candles and “#1 Teacher” mugs. Of course you appreciate how much they appreciate you, but nothing says it’s rude to daydream about more helpful gifts!

A) Santa’s only got to worry about waking early once a year. But there’s no more sleeping in for you! Maybe you’ll get a Puzzle Alarm Clock (www.bimbambanana.com, $52) that shoots its pieces into the air and refuses to stop bleating until you’ve reassembled them.

B) Tired of lifting all those practice tests? Here’s hoping for the Mini Jack Remote Control Forklift (www.thingsyouneverknew.com, $39.98). It navigates desktop clutter in three speeds, plus reverse!

C) You might be just a few years older than some of your students, but if deciphering what language they’re speaking is an issue, put the latest Slang Flashcards 2 (www.knockknock.biz, $14.99) on your list. It’s like bling for your brain, you check?

d) Taking too long to figure out students’ moods each morning? Cross your fingers that Rorshock Ink Blot Flashcards ($15, www.uncommongoods. com) are on their way. You’ll have them figured out in no time.