Image Map

January 1, 2023

How to Transition Back to School After Winter Break: Tips for Teachers

Confessions of a Frazzled Teacher

Winter break is such a refreshing pause in the school year, but let’s be real—getting back into the swing of things can feel overwhelming! If you’re anything like me, you might return to school wondering, “What’s my password again?” or “Where does this even go?” Just thinking about it can bring on a wave of anxiety.

Now imagine how your students feel. Chances are, they haven’t given much thought to routines, procedures, or even school itself during the break. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to focus on reteaching expectations as you dive back into the classroom.

Don’t assume students will remember everything. Spend time re-establishing the behaviors and routines you want to see. This investment of time will pay off big in the long run, creating a more organized and productive classroom.

Quick Note: Some of the ideas I’ll share include links to resources I love. If you use these links to make a purchase, it won’t cost you anything extra, but I may earn a small commission. Plus, it totally makes my day when you find these helpful!

Top Activities to Kick Off the First Week Back After Winter Break

1. Reviewing Procedures Carousel

This fun and interactive activity is one of my go-to methods for reinforcing classroom rules after a break. It requires minimal prep, gets students moving, and engages them in a meaningful way.

What You’ll Need:

How It Works:

  1. Identify Key Locations: Start by brainstorming places where students spend a lot of time (classroom, lunchroom, bathroom, hallway, etc.). Write each location at the top of a piece of chart paper. You can prepare this in advance or involve students in the process.
  2. Group Rotation: Divide students into small groups and assign each group to a piece of chart paper. Give them 3–4 minutes to jot down behaviors, actions, and expectations for that location.
  3. Rotate: Have groups rotate to the next chart paper. Before adding new ideas, they should read what’s already written and avoid duplicating information. Allow more time (5–7 minutes) as they progress.
  4. Debrief: Once all groups have visited each location, gather as a class to discuss the key takeaways.

Pro Tips:

  • Assign each group a specific color marker to track contributions.
  • Pair higher readers with lower readers for better collaboration.
  • Set clear expectations upfront to keep the activity productive.

This exercise might get a bit noisy, but trust me—it works wonders!

2. Procedure Pantomime

Want a fun and memorable way to reinforce classroom rules? Procedure Pantomime is a creative activity that can last a day, a week, or even the rest of the school year if needed.

What You’ll Need:

  • Index cards
  • Pen or marker

How It Works:

  1. Brainstorm Scenarios: Have students come up with basic rules and procedures or reflect on specific behaviors that caused issues earlier in the year (e.g., yelling out in class, leaving chairs pushed out).
  2. Create Cue Cards: Write each rule, procedure, or scenario on a separate index card.
  3. Act It Out: Select a few cards each day. Students act out the scenarios in two ways:
    • What NOT to do: Let them exaggerate incorrect behavior for a good laugh.
    • What TO do: Follow up with the correct way to handle the scenario.

This activity not only reinforces expectations but also gives students a clear visual reminder of appropriate behaviors.

3. New Year’s Goal Setting

The new year is the perfect time to encourage students to reflect and set personal goals. This activity helps students think about positive changes they can make, both academically and personally.

What You’ll Need:

How It Works:

  1. Print and Prep: Print the task cards and recording sheets. (Click the link below to grab your free copy!)

  2. Station Setup: Place the task cards around the room.
  3. Student Walkthrough: Have students rotate from card to card, answering the questions.
  4. Class Discussion: Regroup to share and discuss their answers as a class.

This activity is a great way to start the year with a positive and goal-oriented mindset.

Bonus Activity - 

I start with this booklet on my students' desks to start as morning work. It keeps them busy while I start the morning. Plus I use the other materials in the download to create a fun bulletin board with our words of the year. Last year, our entire 3rd grade added their words of the year to create a fun display in our hallway!

What You’ll Need:

How It Works:

  1. Students complete their resolution books: Most of this can be done without any need to review or teach new information. This is a perfect way to start off our day!

  2. Brainstorm ideas for Words of the Year: Let students choose their words of the year and finish their booklets.

What Are Your Go-To Strategies?

I’d love to hear what you’re planning for your first week back after break! Share your favorite tips and tricks in the comments below. Let’s make this transition as smooth (and fun!) as possible for everyone. 😊



The first week after a long break is tough! Teachers need to reestablish procedures and routines. This blog post contains 3 activities to do with students after a long break (like Winter Break). These activities are all low prep/no prep, making planning easy for teachers. Bonus!!! There is a freebie included! #confessionsofafrazzledteacher {Third, Fourth, and Fifth Graders; classroom management; January lesson planning}

3 comments:

  1. This post is fantastic! I love how you break down the information so clearly. Pest Control Brownsville Looking forward to your next article!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Appreciate you sharing, it is great article. Many thanks again. Pest Control Rio Mission Awesome.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I enjoy it for creating the details, keep up the truly amazing performance continuing full bathroom renovation Honolulu.

    ReplyDelete