As winter settles in and the holidays draw near, classrooms begin to feel a little different. Children carry a mix of excitement, restlessness, and emotion during this time of year. Teachers and support staff feel it too. December asks everyone to bring a little more patience, a little more creativity, and a lot more heart.
At P.U.R.E. Excellence, we understand how these weeks can stretch you. The to-do lists get longer. Energy shifts. Routines wobble. Yet even in this season, educators continue to show up with love and steady guidance. That commitment deserves attention and support.
Today, we want to share simple, practical strategies that help classrooms stay connected, calm, and engaged before winter break. These ideas do not require elaborate materials or hours of planning. They simply build on what you already do well.
Create short, predictable routines
Children feel the holiday buzz even when they cannot explain it. Shorter routines help anchor their attention and bring a sense of safety into the room. Try breaking longer activities into smaller parts. A five minute movement break or a quick breathing moment can reset the tone for the entire group.
Even small adjustments can help children settle more easily. Predictability is powerful during seasons that feel busy or unfamiliar.
Use winter themes to spark curiosity
You can lean into the season without needing holiday-specific materials. Winter itself offers plenty to explore. Think about topics like weather, nature, clothing, or animals. These themes make room for curiosity and conversation.
A simple question like “What does winter feel like to you?” can open doors for storytelling, sensory play, and early literacy skills. Children love talking about their experiences. Teachers can use those little moments to build connection.
Bring learning into hands-on activities
Children learn best when they can touch, move, build, and imagine. Hands-on activities help channel energy in a healthy direction. You might try:
• Sorting winter objects by size or color
• Creating simple paper snowflakes
• Exploring ice melts in small groups
• Using scarves or cotton balls for pretend-play weather scenes
These activities encourage critical thinking while giving children an outlet for excitement. They also work beautifully for substitute teachers or anyone stepping in to support the classroom.
Slow the classroom down when emotions run high
The days leading up to break can stir up big feelings in children. Some feel joyful. Others feel anxious or overstimulated. When emotions rise, slow the pace. Sit together for one quiet moment. Invite students to take a slow breath with you. Offer a gentle prompt like, “Let’s notice how our bodies feel right now.”
These small moments of grounding help both children and teachers regain balance. A calmer classroom benefits everyone.
Celebrate progress in meaningful ways
December often brings reflection. Teachers can use this time to highlight growth and encourage confidence. It can be as simple as saying:
“I noticed how gently you shared that toy today.”
“You tried again even when it was hard.”
“You helped our classroom feel safe.”
Children remember these affirmations long after winter break ends. They hold onto the feeling of being seen.
Keep communication open with families
Families are navigating busy schedules too. A short note or reminder can support consistency at home and school. Share simple updates on what the class is learning or what routines are helping students stay calm.
When families feel included, children feel supported from every direction.
Remember to care for yourself too
Before we close, we want to speak directly to educators. These weeks can test your patience and your endurance. You carry a great deal, often without recognition. Give yourself permission to pause when you need it. Drink water. Stretch your shoulders. Step outside for a moment of fresh air. Small acts of care help sustain your energy.
You do not have to be perfect. You only have to be present. That presence is already a gift.
Moving into winter break with confidence
The final days before break can feel long, but they also hold opportunities for joy and connection. When classrooms focus on simple routines, hands-on learning, and emotional grounding, students thrive. Teachers feel steadier. And the school community moves into the new year with a sense of renewal.
P.U.R.E. Excellence stands with every educator weathering this season. We see your effort. We honor your heart. And we are here to strengthen the journey with you.
If you are part of a center or school preparing for the new year and want support with substitute staffing, coaching, or training, explore how our programs can help. Our mission grows stronger through educators like you.
