Tips for Educators to Minimize Routine Disruption During the Holiday Season

By preparing ahead and allowing yourself to recharge during the holiday break, you’re setting up your classroom—and yourself—for success. CPI emphasizes proactive strategies that build a sense of community and stability, empowering educators to maintain calm and focus on their classrooms.

These suggestions can help educators enjoy a balanced, joyful holiday season while keeping students engaged and easing the transition back to school in the new year.

Plan Your Last Week Before Break 

The last week before holiday break can be a whirlwind of excitement and distraction for students, but a little planning can make it manageable—and even fun! 

Maintain Routine with a Festive Twist 

By sticking to your usual classroom schedule and incorporating some seasonal activities, you can provide a sense of structure and reassurance for your students, even as their excitement grows.

Reflect on the Year’s Progress 

Taking time to reflect on lessons learned so far can give students a sense of accomplishment and prepare them for what’s to come. You might do a quick recap of the skills and knowledge they've acquired or have students share one new thing they’re proud of. This review sets a positive tone and reminds students (and you!) of the progress you’ve made together.

Incorporate Holiday-Themed Writing Prompts 

Give students a chance to share their unique perspectives by assigning a short holiday-themed writing activity. For instance, a prompt like, “How does your family celebrate the holidays?" or "What is your favorite holiday tradition and why?” allows them to express themselves and share their cultural traditions, which can spark interesting discussions and create a sense of inclusivity.

Introduce Holiday Games and Crafts 

Integrate simple holiday activities like decorating a small classroom bulletin board with holiday-themed drawings or making a holiday craft related to a lesson theme. These activities are creative outlets that can help students channel their energy positively. Use activities that align with the curriculum, like math games with holiday-themed questions or history lessons about holiday traditions worldwide.

Plan Your Return to the Classroom 

Jumping back into a structured routine after a long break can feel daunting, but setting the stage for a smooth return can reduce anxiety for you and your students.

Revisit Classroom Expectations 

The post-holiday period is perfect for a gentle reset. Review classroom norms and expectations with your students, encouraging them to share what they believe creates a positive learning environment. Setting these reminders together helps reinforce a supportive atmosphere for the new term.

Start with Review Activities 

Engaging in light review activities can ease students back into learning mode. Consider group-based review games, like a holiday-themed quiz, which help refresh their memory while allowing them to work together, or individual reflection on topics covered before break.

Encourage Students to Share Break Experiences 

Kick off the return by inviting students to share how they spent their time away, whether through short essays, art projects, or small group discussions.

Allow students to process their experiences and build camaraderie and respect for each other's unique ways of celebrating the holidays.

Include Planned Breaks and Self-Regulation Activities 

After the holiday break, students may need time to reacclimate to the classroom routine. Incorporate planned breaks or self-regulation activities to help them adjust and manage any lingering excitement or holiday fatigue. Simple mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, or short brain breaks can go a long way.

Integrate Team-Building Activities 

These activities can foster a sense of unity and prepare students to work well together in the new term. Use games or cooperative learning activities that encourage teamwork, trust, and respect for one another. Icebreakers with a holiday theme can also help ease students into the school routine while keeping the atmosphere light. 

Schedule Something Fun for Yourself Over the Holiday Break 

Don’t forget—you deserve a break, too! Taking time to recharge is essential for maintaining your energy and enthusiasm.

Treat Yourself to Relaxation 

Book a massage, take a yoga class, or indulge in any relaxing activity that helps you feel renewed. Physical relaxation helps relieve tension and works wonders for your body and mind.

Connect with Friends 

Schedule a get-together with a friend or group of friends you may not see often. A casual meal or coffee date is a great way to unwind and share laughs without the pressures of a busy work environment.

Make Plans with Loved Ones 

Spend time with family in a way that’s meaningful to you, whether it’s a day trip, movie night, or an at-home game night.

These connections remind you of your “why,” a central part of CPI’s belief in aligning personal well-being with professional effectiveness. 

Give Yourself Grace 

The holidays can be a beautiful but also challenging time. Giving yourself grace and keeping your expectations realistic can ease any additional pressure.

Acknowledge the Seasonal Stress 

It's important to acknowledge that the holiday season can bring unique challenges and added stress. Remember, it’s okay to feel this way.

Be kind to yourself. It's important to recognize the effort you’re putting into your work and life. 

Draw Boundaries Between Home and Work 

Avoid bringing work-related stress home by setting clear limits between the two. Similarly, don’t let holiday stress spill into the classroom. Try to compartmentalize so that both areas of your life remain manageable and fulfilling.

Lean on Your Colleagues for Support 

Share your thoughts, ask for advice, or listen to each other’s experiences. Talking through challenges and successes together can lighten the load and reinforce a sense of camaraderie. 

The holiday season offers unique challenges and opportunities. By incorporating even a few of these tips into your agenda, educators can maintain a structured, positive classroom while ensuring their own well-being. Remember, you’re entitled to the same compassion and support you offer your students.

Explore how CPI can help you build skills for a successful teaching experience and supportive educational environment.