Don’t Let the Holidays Haunt You: Classroom Calm in November & December

The holiday months tend to give teachers a very spooky feeling. It may seem like your semester is winding down both very quickly—and not quickly enough—at the same time. If you’re reading this at the beginning of November, I’m sure that already makes perfect sense to you.

You want to finish strong, help students reach learning goals, and find ways to enjoy classroom culture before the semester ends. But you also may have parent-teacher conferences, holiday programs, and your own holidays to deal with. I mean, enjoy.

Visionary Check #1

Quick Classroom Resets
Classroom management and motivation start to wane this time of year, but you don’t have time for a full overhaul—so a quick reset is the answer.

Small resets are the key! Pick one routine and two expectations that need to be revisited. Need to get transitions moving smoothly again? Point it out and tackle it. Tighten expectations too—pick two that make the biggest difference and review or reintroduce them.

How do we act in assemblies? What’s a magic word your class can use if they get too rambunctious during holiday activities to grab their attention? Get prepared now.

Also—classroom clutter. A cluttered environment affects both your stress level and your students’. Find one hotspot you can clear—whether it’s your desk, the supply closet, or clutter around the whiteboard. Your classroom will feel calmer for it.

These small actions will help preserve your energy and restore structure before the busyness of the semester’s end hits.

Visionary Check #2

Protect Your Boundaries
We’ve discussed boundaries with parents and students before, but your personal boundaries during these last few months may make the biggest difference in whether you end the year stressed or blessed.

Choose two days a week when you’ll leave work at a specific time—and then do it! Don’t give yourself an out. This will help your stamina immensely.

On top of that, schedule your grading time. Only grade papers at set times. You might decide to grade only at school, leaving home time for yourself or your family—or you might set certain times at home for grading. Stick to it! You’ll be so glad you did. After all, you don’t want to miss your own holiday preparations, right?

And by all means, give yourself permission to say no to optional activities you’re asked to lead or join. Protect your peace and your energy through the season.

Visionary Check #3

Build in Some Joy
This is the fun part—plan intentional moments of joy for you and your class! After all, you’re a community, so have a little fun together.

I personally love the idea of a gratitude wall (perfect for November) or a seasonal read-aloud you can enjoy throughout the season. Even a small class project—like making Christmas cards for a local nursing home, firehouse, or your school staff—can spark connection and kindness.

Plan something that builds class culture and camaraderie. You’ll be so thankful you did, and you’ll see the bond that develops carry into the second semester.

Little tweaks, a few new boundaries, and some intentional moments of joy will help you rock these last few months of the semester—and keep your wits about you throughout. See? The holidays aren’t so scary after all. 🎄✨