Surviving the Holiday Season as a Science Teacher: 7 Tips to Stay Stress-Free
The holiday season is an exciting time for students—but for middle and high school science teachers, it can feel like a whirlwind of chaos. Between school festivities, grading deadlines, and the challenge of keeping students engaged, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry- you are not alone!
With the right strategies, you can navigate this busy season with less stress and more joy. In this post, I will share seven practical tips to help teachers survive (and even thrive!) during the holiday season while keeping your students motivated and your classroom running smoothly.
1. Maintain Your Classroom Routine
Keep your classroom routine and expectations the same. Some students may test limits during the holiday buzz. Remind them of your classroom expectations with a friendly but firm approach and consider positive incentives for staying on task.
My students love smelly stickers from Amazon and if I see someone doing a great job on an activity then I spontaneously give them a sticker. You would be amazed how fast the other students start to focus while whispering “she’s giving out STICKERS!” Positive rewards work wonders.
2. Embrace the Festive Spirit
If your school allows it, you can channel holiday energy into activities like classroom door decorating contests or service projects. These can foster a sense of community and help redirect the chaos.
I am in a public school, so we are a little limited, but I love to get my snowmen out to decorate my room so it looks like an inviting festive wintery space! I also like to put on some holiday music as they come in or leave the room to get everyone in the holiday spirit!
3. Keep Your Lessons Simple
Did I once think making homemade glue for paper snowmen before break was a good idea? Yes, yes, I did…. and then I vowed never to do it again. My room was a disaster, the students were SO excited for break they had a really hard time following directions and I could not wait for the day to end.
My best tip for that “day before break lesson” is to keep your lesson plans engaging but low-prep. Seasonal-themed activities or easy projects can capture students' attention without adding extra work for you.
My favorite activity is my Winter Science Scavenger Hunt. This can be used indoors or outdoors, and it gets the kids moving around and using up their energy!
On the flip side, most students return from break very tired and unmotivated for school so I have an engaging but relaxing Winter Digital Escape Room ready to go. They can work with a friend and it is a nice transition for all of us back into the swing of things.
Winter Science Mini Bundle
4. Be Flexible With Your Planning
You may be feeling sick, your children may be sick and suddenly you know there is no way you can have a sub continue the plans you had in place. Be kind to yourself and understand that “it is OK” if you pivot to a “quick fill in plan”. The world will not come to an end if your students get a day to play Kahoot or watch a MythBusters episode while you are home sick.
5. Plan for Absences the Day Before and After Break
Inevitably there are students who are out the day before or after break for travel or illness. The few days leading up to the holiday might not be the very best time to start a new unit. If you have “extra time” try one of the many free activities by Nancy Clark at https://www.nclark.net/ or one of the wonderful simulations on https://phet.colorado.edu/.
6. Prioritize Self-Care
This might seem obvious but be sure to drink water, exercise and take time to enjoy the holiday season. Don’t let the busy school schedule take all your energy.
Take time to rest, watch a holiday movie, and read a book. Set realistic boundaries on grading and enjoy the time with your family and friends; at the end of the day those are the most important things to prioritize.
7. Plan for Post-Break Success
Ease the transition back from break by planning a few lessons or activities in advance. This can help you return to the new year feeling organized and ready to go.
I know you may not really be into planning for January (and getting those copies done now), but the “future you” will be SO grateful that you are on top of things and ready to go when you return to school. (and let’s be real…. we all know the copier is going to jam the first day back anyway...)
I hope these 7 tips can help you to have a memorable and restful holiday break! I wish you all the joy of the holiday season!
