Going back to school after winter break can feel like a let-down to some teachers. The merriment that came with holiday anticipation has evaporated, the days are short, and the weather is cold. You may find yourself pining for the days of sleeping in and binge-watching the latest TV craze.
Remember, you are likely not the only one feeling this way; it’s common for students to feel foggy or unmotivated as well. But it’s important to take this time to set the tone for the rest of the school year and get back into your groove! Here are three tips to help with your transition:
1. Positivity is Key – Although you may not be feeling very positive, remember that students pick up on your attitude and reflect it. Have you ever heard the phrase, “fake it ’til you make it”? Create a pleasant classroom environment by pushing yourself to think and act positively! No matter how you feel, convey to your students that you’re thrilled to be back doing what you love – teaching!
2. Reinforce Expectations – Take a bit of time to go over your signals for getting students’ attention and review rules, procedures, and expectations. This sends students the message that you’re ready to get right back into the everyday flow of the school year.
3. Winter Break Reflection – If you have extra time, allow students to reflect on their winter break through a productive academic activity like a writing prompt. We found an excellent list of 20 Back from Winter Break Writing Prompts from the Minds in Bloom blog. This post even includes a math activity of creating a pie chart to show how students spent their winter break.
Hopefully, you got some time over winter break to rest up and you’re ready to take on 2017! Cheers to the new year!