Three Holiday Hustle and Bustle Busters for the Classroom!

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas break are tough for teachers everywhere.  Students are distracted.  Let's face it...teachers are distracted too!  Here are three tips for busting the holiday hustle and bustle during the next few weeks!

1) Don't be afraid to make (a little) time for FUN!

Upper-grades teachers are often pressured to teach through the holiday season without the "fun and games" but big kids like to have fun too!  There are many ways to build in a little holiday fun without taking too much time away from instruction.  These FREE printable coupons are an easy way to spread some holiday cheer and can be used as cost-free prizes OR gifts for your students.  Click to download them below:

2) Go for a WALK!

This Science Winter Walkabout makes natural connections between general science concepts and the holiday season!  Kids love traveling from question to question and there are "fun" questions built in to allow time for kids to share their holiday traditions and interests!  Spread the questions out so kids can stretch their legs and if weather permits, laminate them and go outside for some fresh air.

3) Switch it UP! 

This is a great time of year to TRY A NEW TEACHING STRATEGY! Try using an interactive notebook foldable, task card review, posters or doodle notes to spice up your normal instructional routines.  It just might be the breath of fresh air you and your students need to keep motivated!

Doodle notes are great for this time of year because they help with concentration and memory while providing a natural brain break with doodling and coloring!

SO...Grab a cup of coffee and check out some time-saving resources to use in your classroom!