The weeks leading up to winter break are less than easy. In fact, they are some of the hardest of the year. Students are excited and might be literally bouncing off of the walls. So, once you turn off the light, close your classroom door, and head home, you might think your work is done. However, you’re mistaken. Here are 5 ways teachers should spend their winter break.
1. Only change out of your PJ’s when completely necessary.
When you get home from school, put on your comfiest PJs. When should you remove them? Who’s to say? I mean, is it really so bad to run to the grocery store in reindeer pajamas? That’s your call, but I say “ride on Rudolph!”
2. Move as little as possible.
You are a teacher. You’ve probably burned about a million calories keeping your students from bouncing off of the walls the last few weeks. That calls for a little R&R. So, snuggle up with a cozy blanket, put on your favorite show (Hallmark movies? The Walking Dead? No judgement here.) Once you’ve become one with the couch, you’re on the right track.
3. Eat, drink, and be merry.
Listen, I have a secret for you. Calories consumed on winter break don’t count. Plus, see number 2. You’ve been working hard all December. It’s okay to indulge. (And Christmas cookies for breakfast are totally acceptable. You’re welcome.)
4. Do NOT open your school bag.
Really. Don’t. Unless it’s to pull out one of the 16 “Best Teacher Ever” mugs that you received from your students to pour some cocoa (or wine, I don’t judge) in, keep that puppy closed until January 2nd. You have earned your winter break, and the grading and lesson planning will be there when it’s time to go back. In fact, don’t even bring it home. You’re not going to open it anyway.
5. Take a breath and take some time for yourself.
In all seriousness, please take some time for yourself over the next couple weeks. Being a teacher is hard. The holidays are busy. You are probably about half way through the school year, and it’s the perfect opportunity to rest, relax, and recharge. So, don’t let that annoying part of your brain trick you into thinking you need to do school work. Like I said above, it will all be waiting for you when school starts back up.
No matter what you celebrate, or even if you don’t celebrate, I wish you a restful winter break filled with sleep, food, family, and friends.
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