The day returning to school from Christmas vacation or any vacation from school can be wild. The children, the young ones anyway, are so full of stories and details of the break. Some cannot wait to share about Christmas presents while others cannot wait to share a special outing or event that they attended.
The older students are also excited. However, they look more forward to talking to each other rather than to the teacher.
The first hour that the children are together can be very loud and talkative. They are overwhelmed to see one another and to compare stories.
Teachers must quickly gain a grasp of the situation. There are several ways that a teacher can turn this high energy into a learning experience.
For very young children, teachers will need to use a more verbal approach. However even preschool and early kindergarten students can draw pictures of the story that they wish to share.
When the students first walk into the room, have paper, pencils, and crayons on their table. Instruct students to use these materials instead of talking. After the students have settled down and had time to work, allow the students to share the story to go along with their pictures. This may take a few extra moments from your day but it will save much time in the long run.
Older children can be asked to write about their special gift or experience. They too can share their writings with the class if they wish.
Teachers can also make a graph of the types of gifts received or the places visited (if over summer vacation). The class can then discuss the graph and the gifts or experiences with each other.
Another creative thinking idea would be for each student to think of one present that he or she received. The student can give clues and the other students can ask questions. Everyone tries to guess what the gift is.
What to Do over Christmas Vacation