5 Tips for Coming Back From Winter Break

​The second half of the school year is here, which means it’s time to head back to school after the long, relaxing winter break. Coming back from winter break can be hard, and there are bound to be some challenges. It’s almost like the first day of school all over again. Most of your students probably experienced a lot less structure, more sugar, and less sleep during their days off. However, with these 5 tips for returning from winter break, you can help your students (and yourself!) ease back into the school schedule and start the new year strong.

5 Tips for Coming Back From Winter Break

#1: Welcome Them With Open Arms

Most importantly, welcome your students back to school with open arms! Keep in mind that some of your students have waited two weeks to be back in their safe place at school with you. Hug each one of those sweet students as they enter the classroom and tell them how happy you are to see them.

#2: Review Rules and Concepts

Just like at the beginning of the year, it’s important to review rules and concepts when coming back from winter break. Reassure students that your rules and expectations have not changed. Take the time to reteach routines and refresh their little memories.

If you’re looking for a new classroom management routine, check out my blog post where I share 10 classroom management strategies that I’ve used in my own classroom that have worked wonders.

#3: Let Them Share Their Stories

It’s important after the long break to give your students the space, time, and freedom to share their stories and memories from the break. More than likely, they will be bursting at the seams to share about their holiday break.

Play a fun musical game and let them get some of their stories out. Have students pair up and share something about their break. After a few minutes, play a catchy tune. When the music stops, they have to find a new partner to share stories with.

You can also use my FREE Winter Break Snapshot Writing Activity to help them share their stories while sneaking in a little writing practice. Set it out for morning work and then turn it into a class book for them to read!

You can grab your free copy by filling out the form below and it’ll be delivered straight to your inbox.

#4: Prepare For Some Sadness

Be prepared for some sadness. You MAY have one or two students who are not excited to be back at school. They got to spend every day with their mom, dad, or other special family members over the break. For kids that had a hard time adjusting during the first week of school, long winter breaks can bring back some of those feelings. Be attentive and give those kiddos an extra hug. A little can go along way.

#5: Don’t Start Something New

When coming back from winter break, don’t start something new. I know some administrators would roll their eyes at me for saying this, BUT, it is perfectly ok to not jump right in with new concepts the first day or two back. Take the time to review previously taught skills and refresh routines and procedures. They’re kids after all, and they need time to get caught back up and get back in the groove and routine of school – just like you!

I hope you found these simple tips for returning from winter break helpful. If you’re looking for more resources to get you going this January, check out these activities below or in my TPT store.

Do you have a tip to share about coming back from winter break? Leave me a comment below and let me know!