How to Maintain Classroom Momentum Between Thanksgiving and Christmas

We love our students. Truly, we do. But when break is on the horizon, it is often a bit more difficult to remember the angelic children that made our jobs so blissful back in September. I've often heard more veteran teachers say that the stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas is their least favorite time to teach and I disagree. Even though the students are perhaps a bit more rambunctious than we would like, we can either spend 2-3 weeks fighting or we can lean into the spirit, making it more enjoyable for all. 

Read Christmas books and stories.

While the amount of "classical" literature might be somewhat limited when it comes to Christmas content, there are several wonderful read-alouds for little guys as well as books for book studies for older students. This list is fantastic!

As far as older students go, A Christmas Carol is always a favorite as is the short story, A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote. On my list this year is Winter's Tales by Isak Denison, Winter Fire by G.K. Chesterton and The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry. 

Create thematic activities.

I always find it amazing how simply putting a Christmas tree graphic on an otherwise mundane worksheet can totally elevate the mood. If you want to get creative, do phonics/word activities with holiday-themed words, create holiday-themed art projects. We'll keep adding free and paid Christmas-themed resources to our store!

Play Instrumental Holiday Music While They Work Independently.

My personal favorite? Kenny G's Christmas albums. They're so relaxing and lovely. 

Decorate your classroom.

A little tinsel never hurt anyone and can create such a festive and cozy environment!

Assign holiday poetry.

There are so many beautiful poems, but some I love are:

Christmas Trees by Robert Frost

On the Morning of Christ's Nativity by John Milton

Little Tree by E.E. Cummings

The Three Kings by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Account of a Visit from St. Nicolas by Major Henry Livingston, Jr. 

Incorporate Holiday Memories into Writing.

Stay tuned for some writing prompt ideas here on the blog next week!

So, the moral of the story here is this: while it is important to continue with academics between Thanksgiving and Christmas, everyone wins if you make it fun. 

Enjoy the season!