Surviving the run-up to the Christmas holidays

Surviving the run-up to the Christmas holidays

Christmas is the time of the year that everyone looks forward to. However, if you are a teacher or educator, the run-up to Christmas can be challenging. With exams, lesson plans, assignments, and other preparations to make, it can feel like an exhausting time, and it's easy to lose motivation. But don't worry – there are ways to survive the run-up to Christmas and make the most of the holiday season.

1. Make a plan for your Christmas 

One of the best ways to keep yourself motivated during the run-up to Christmas is to make a plan. This can be as simple as organising your time by scheduling your tasks and setting aside some free time for yourself. A visual list of your plans can also provide a sense of accomplishment as you cross off tasks and see how close you are to your well-deserved break. Additionally, having a clear plan can help ease your anxiety and reduce stress levels.

2. Watch cheesy Christmas Classics

When you feel like you're getting bogged down by work and need a break, Christmas movies can be a great way to unwind. 

You can always escape into a wholesome fantasy like “Polar Express” or watch someone have an even tougher Christmas stress with “Christmas with the Kranks”. There’s a Christmas Classic for everyone!

Watching classics like Home Alone, Polar Express, Christmas with the Kranks, The Santa Clause, or Die Hard (yes, it is a Christmas movie!) can help you get into the holiday spirit and provide some light-hearted fun during the stressful season. So, grab some popcorn, a hot drink, and indulge in some holiday fun!

3. Stick to routines and expectations in class

During the stressful run-up to Christmas, it can be tempting to slack off in the classroom or cut corners to get more time for other preparations. However, sticking to your routines and expectations in class can actually help you feel more in control. Moreover, it allows your students to feel more secure and focused during this time of upheaval and change.

4. Celebrate the season with your students

One way to make this week more enjoyable is to involve your students in the celebrations. Organising activities like Christmas decoration making, holding a Secret Santa exchange, or encouraging students to share their own Christmas traditions in class can help create a joyful and festive atmosphere. It can also be a great way to build classroom relationships and create lasting memories.

5. Get prepared for January before you leave

Have a good clear out of any desk clutter before you leave for the Christmas break. Any paperwork you won’t need for the following year needs to be recycled or shredded. Next, get planning for the first week back by preparing any materials and writing those lesson plans. Returning in the new year to a clean desk and with a plan for January in place will help you start the new term as you mean to go on. 

These simple tips should leave you with enough energy to thoroughly enjoy your Christmas; after all, the holiday season isn’t meant to be stressful! It’s a time to relax and enjoy family and friends. Have a great Christmas break when it arrives; you deserve it!