The Happy Learning Den: Getting Back Into a Routine After a Holiday Break

Hi friends,

Wow! That was a much deserved, well-earned, and time well spent break! But like all good things,winter break has come to an end.

Getting back into the swing of things post holiday hubbub is difficult for students and teachers. Your students just spent days — maybe even weeks — being entertained by family, friends and celebrations. Getting back into a normal routine can be challenging, but proactive teachers can help ease the transition by following a few simple tips.

First, take time to reconnect with students. If you can, aim for some one-on-one time with each student throughout the day. Take a moment to talk with each student during small-group times or at lunch if you eat with your class (Make them earn that lunch bunch the first day(s) back!).

The holidays are all about bending rules. Children (and adults) eat more sweets than usual. They stay up later than the normal bedtime. They get to do things they don't normally do. When they are back in school, it's time to change this mindset. A good idea is to review classroom rules your class and talk about the day's routine much like you did the first week of school.

One thing not to do is avoid talking about the holidays. You may think this will help your students focus more quickly, but really it can increase the holiday blues and build up tough emotions. Instead, during writing time, allow each child to write about a favorite holiday memory. Then allow volunteers to share their memories. Do your best to avoid talking about presents, as you don't want any child to feel bad about receiving fewer or different gifts.

As for the curriculum for the first days back at school, don't plan anything too big or challenging. Simply focus on adjusting back to the school routine and avoid any field trips or tough lessons.

In addition to thoughtful lessons, make sure to plan plenty of time for movement. Your students have been moving a lot during holiday break; let them get those wiggles out at school, too! It's a perfect time to play Scoot or 4 Corners with review questions and task cards. Are you game? And if you need new task cards, click here to see my teachers pay teachers store. I have task cards galore!

Getting back into the swing of things can be tough for anyone.