Countdown to Winter Break: Helping Students Manage Behaviors

It’s the final stretch before winter break. Hallways and classrooms are buzzing with the anticipation and excitement of the holiday season – and break from school!

Behind all of the energy, however, your students may feel restless, overstimulated, and even anxious, especially if the holidays are stressful at home. Impulse control goes right out the window, and they may have a hard time focusing. (You probably feel the same way!) Your students may seem more irritable if their home routines are disrupted by later bedtimes and family activities. Older students may lose motivation, seem checked out, and appear more distracted or forgetful. You might notice them pushing the boundaries with their behaviors – both in and out of the classroom – and even having more conflict with their friends.

So, how can you help?

Keep classroom routines and expectations as consistent as possible.

This can go a long way in offering a sense of predictability and safety for your students. Clearly communicate upcoming changes to your routine, such as special events, class celebrations, or field trips. Use visual schedules to help reduce the anxiety and impulsivity brought on by unexpected changes. As much as you can, remind them to keep their spaces organized in the midst of the pre-holiday season chaos. 

Help students practice self-regulation.

Include time for brain breaks or musical transitions between activities. Offer calm-down corners or alternate seating arrangements for students who may need a break. Incorporate mindful moments or breathing exercises at the beginning or end of a lesson. (“Hot Cocoa Breathing” is always a crowd favorite!) Use morning meetings, journaling, or check-ins to help students express big emotions. Also, keep in mind that students often mirror our energy!

Channel students’ excitement in a productive way.

Incorporate seasonal themes into your counseling lessons and activities, whether it’s a coping skills snowball toss game or facilitating an engaging winter escape room. Plan collaborative activities to keep up your students’ engagement. Help students brainstorm ways they can show kindness to their classmates, families, and adults at school. Continue to reinforce positive behavior and keep your classroom expectations clear. (Don’t forget to make a plan to revisit these expectations when you return after break!) 

For even more tools and strategies to help students thrive during busy and challenging times, check out Remi in Overdrive! It offers readers valuable guidance for managing inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.