[Ask an Educator] How to Keep Students Engaged Before Winter Break

The weeks between Thanksgiving and winter breaks are a tough time to tune-in and focus---for students and teachers alike. After all, who isn’t ready to welcome a few days of rest after another hectic back-to-school season? But still, there is learning to be done, even this time of year. For expert advice, we turned to our amazing network of educators on Twitter and Facebook, where we asked you to tell us how do you survive the holiday chaos in your classroom? What are your favorite tips and tricks for student engagement before break?

Over 150 educators responded with some incredible ideas! Here are a few of our favorite answers:

In times of trouble, turn to books

For me it's business as usual in the library, just with extra books checked out to last the break. Its always nuts so it helps to have projects going on to keep the young minds focused!

— Theresa Paine (@tkrenks) December 7, 2021

Cut the busy work and roll with it

Right before break is the busiest time! The kids get overwhelmed so easily this time of year. Lots of breaks and not putting so much pressure on them is so important. Also cut out the busy work, have them read a book they'll enjoy instead. Even a magazine or comic book.

— Emilie Proctor (@emilie_proctor) December 7, 2021

Embrace the chaos

I embrace the chaos! We let go of our schedule and we work with the time we have and try our best to get things done. Giving them free choices and less structure helps combat all the holiday wiggles. #educatorfirst

— MrsManningsPrek (@mar29leap) December 6, 2021

Or … contribute to the chaos!

I probably contribute to the chaos. I like to do crafts each day. I tie them into a book we read. We did Rainbow Fish and gave them a santa hat, Christmas trees from a paper plate, Snowmen name tags for our lockers and ornaments to decorate the hallway.

— Kelly Lynch (@KellyLy72863081) December 7, 2021

Routines are key

6th grade math teacher here. Keep them busy, busy, busy! Routines are key. Plus, this is when I pick lots of helpers to do even the smallest of things like staple papers, grade papers, wipe down desks, etc. They love helping and sometimes I don't even have to give them a treat.

— Escoto  Math  Teacher (@EscotoMath302) December 7, 2021

Wait until the last day before break … then it’s party time

I follow my standard routine & expectations up until the last day, then we can have some real fun! #EducatorFirst pic.twitter.com/vtOhb8OJED

— Mrs. B (@LitCoachB) December 6, 2021

Turn the focus to relationship building

I have learned to lower my expectations for what I am going to accomplish and choose instead to focus on building relationships and doing fun things with my students.

— Amy K Radford (@AmyKRadford) December 7, 2021

Short Sessions

I like to break up the holiday fun in short sessions over the course of a few days leading up to the last day of school. Not only does it allow me to continue teaching my core curriculum, but gives the students something to look forward to over a period of time. Routines!! pic.twitter.com/rqpWNcNK1A

— MzJd  (@jcae2008) December 7, 2021

Build in time for chat

I give them a certain amount of time at the beginning of class to chat with their friends and get their energy out. Then we get to work :) I tend to do a lot more projects as well so they are constantly working on things

— Kayla Nielsen (@KaylaAnn3215) December 6, 2021

Time for passion projects

This is a great time for passion projects. Let students explore their interest and share their findings in their own way. As a teacher you’ll learn a lot about how your students learn and what drives them, if you haven’t already!

— Danae (she/her) (@DanaeAcker) December 6, 2021

Calming music and a story after lunch … sounds like heaven

Calming music and a story after lunch when students are transitioning back into the classroom.

— LadyAndromeda (@LadyAndromeda) December 6, 2021

Escape rooms!

I like to keep my routine until the last 2-3 days before winter break. My students love estimation mysteries, escape rooms, reading with flashlights and lots of crafts  #EducatorFirst

— Suzet (@tsuzet7) December 7, 2021

Be sure to follow us on social for more weekly questions and the chance to win fun prizes all December long.

We see the dedication, passion, and hard work educators like you have put into driving student success. To celebrate all that you do and the season of giving, we’re hosting our annual Holiday Giveaway, where we’ll randomly select two lucky educators to each win a $500 Target gift card! Enter by December 31, 2021!