Well, we went through this gift debate last year on the forum. Some providers feel they should receive a gift and others do not.
I am of the camp that yes, I think a gift is appropriate and appreciated. We provide a service and that service should be compensated with a gift at a level which is affordable to the clients circumstance. I look at the appreciation from the parent and a more expense gift does not mean more especially when given out of duty. That said, I love gift cards, especially to restaurants and book stores. Food and books, some of my favorite things LOL HOWEVER, a card with some kind words for a job well done...........now that I really love to receive. Those cards make me glow inside.