In these times when both parents work outside the house, finding a good person to care for small children during the day and older kids after school can sometimes be a challenging task. Just read the newspaper and you’ll find stories about less-than-exemplary child care workers who simply didn’t do their job when it came to protecting and nurturing the children in their care.

So, when you’re fortunate to find a well-grounded, reliable child care provider, you’ll want to acknowledge him or her with a gift on Child Care Providers Appreciation Day, which will be held this year on May 7.

Specifically, this day honors the 2.3 million individuals who care for the wealth of children in the U.S. who are under age 5 and are not being cared for by a parent or guardian at home. Child Care Provider Appreciation Day began in New Jersey in 1996 and is now celebrated each year on the Friday before Mother’s Day. It’s a day when parents should take the time to honor those who help raise their children, often for a salary that is far below those of other occupations.

Child care providers include both young people just starting out in the work force and extend all the way to retirees who simply have a love for small children. But no matter what their age, all of them enjoy being acknowledged on this special day with a gift or other token of appreciation.

Personalized gifts are always a wise choice for such an occasion. You’ll find there are a variety of items from which to choose and the inclusion of the person’s name, your name, and a personal sentiment gives these presents special meaning. If possible, find a gift that pertains to the provider’s hobbies or interests. These might include wine accessories for the wine lover, sports-related gifts, or travel gear. Or if you’re unaware of what they like to do when they’re not working, consider a gift that everyone will enjoy including personalized jewelry, keepsake boxes, coffee mugs, picture frames, desk accessories, or a pretty print or clever sign for their wall.

Child care providers offer an important service and they deserve to be acknowledged with more than just a handshake or nod of the head. Take some time this year to choose a gift they’ll long treasure.