As the Christmas season approaches, teachers may find themselves counting down to the holiday break just as eagerly as their students. This time of year is filled with festive events, end-of-term exams, report cards, and added classroom activities, all of which can quickly lead to burnout.
To make it to the holidays feeling energised rather than exhausted, here are some practical tips to help teachers manage their workload, reduce stress, and stay motivated.
Prioritise Self-Care Every Day
It’s easy to let self-care slide during the busy season, but making a daily commitment to rest and relax is key to staying energised. Even ten minutes of “me time” each day can help! Try activities like meditation, reading or taking a short walk outside.
Set Realistic Goals and Boundaries
As the end of the year approaches, the pressure to wrap up projects and finish marking can feel overwhelming. Set realistic goals and remember that it’s okay to say “no” to additional commitments. Here are some helpful ways to set boundaries:
- Limit your hours: Set a time when you’ll stop working each day, stick to it, and delete emails from your phone to avoid temptation.
- Prioritise tasks: Determine what absolutely needs to be done before break and what can wait.
- Delegate when possible: If you have teacher assistants, volunteers, or even responsible students who can help with tasks, let them.
Simplify Classroom Activities
The holidays bring plenty of fun classroom activities, but they don’t need to be overly complicated to be enjoyable. Choose ones that don’t require a lot of preparation and can fit into your existing classroom routine. A few simple holiday-themed activities, such as reading holiday-themed books, decorating the classroom, or printing off games, can help keep things festive without adding stress.
Plan Ahead
A little planning can go a long way toward reducing stress. Take some time to map out the weeks leading up to Christmas, noting important deadlines, marking tasks, and special events. But as much as you plan, allow yourself the flexibility to adjust when things don’t go exactly as expected. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s avoiding burnout before Christmas.
Find a Support System
Connecting with colleagues who understand the pressures of teaching can be beneficial. Try to build in time, even just once a week, to touch base with other teachers. Whether it’s a quick coffee, a shared lunch break, or an after-school chat, this support can be a reminder that you’re not alone in facing the holiday season stress.
Plan a Holiday Activity for Yourself
Having something to look forward to purely for your enjoyment can make all the difference. Whether it’s a quiet night at home, a trip to see Christmas lights, or a baking session with friends, taking time to do something you love can give you the recharge you need.
This holiday season, remember that a well-rested teacher is the best gift you can give your students and yourself. By prioritising self-care, setting boundaries, simplifying your workload, and finding joy in small moments, you can make it to the Christmas break feeling accomplished—and ready for a well-deserved rest.
If you are looking to find a more flexible role or take a break from full-time teaching, contact us to find out how supply opportunities can suit your needs.