December is such a special time in early years classrooms — full of excitement, anticipation, and a whole lot of energy. Between concerts, celebrations, and routines that feel a little wobbly, it’s totally normal to feel like you’re juggling more than usual.
But here’s the good news: December doesn’t need to feel chaotic.
A few simple shifts can help create a calm, connected, joy-filled learning space for our little learners (and for us, too!).
Here are some of the things I lean into every year to keep things running smoothly:
1. Build in Predictable, Calming Routines
Students thrive when they know what’s coming next — especially during busy seasons.
A few ideas that help keep the energy grounded:
A quiet morning tub (fine motor, loose parts, puzzles)
A short movement break after transitions
A cozy read-aloud right after recess
A simple clean-up song that signals calm
You don’t need to reinvent routines — just keep them consistent.
2. Choose Activities That Reduce Overwhelm
This is the time of year when simple wins every single time.
Hands-on centres that are:
low-prep
easy to explain
calming and purposeful
…tend to go the farthest.
Think:
pin art
torn paper trays
building invitations
patterning with seasonal manipulatives
The goal is engagement without ramping up the excitement even more.
3. Make Space for Connection
December can feel busy for adults, but kids still need the same warmth and predictable connection they rely on all year.
Small moments go a long way:
greeting students in the morning in English or French
sharing a quick “peach and pit”
taking two minutes for a silly movement game
These tiny touch points anchor your classroom community — even on the busiest days.
4. Use Bilingual Visuals to Support Both Languages
If you, like me, support multiple groups or teach in both languages, visuals are your best friend this time of year. They help reduce extra talking and keep all students confident and independent — no matter which language day it is.
A few helpful tools:
picture direction cards
bilingual vocabulary cards
visual schedules
A small amount of prep now can make the whole month smoother.
5. Protect Your Energy, Too
It’s easy to pour into your students and forget about yourself — but you matter in this equation.
Try:
choosing one day to leave right at dismissal
prepping only what’s essential
saying no to extras that drain your energy
building in tiny moments of quiet between transitions
A calm teacher creates a calm classroom.
Looking for Calm, Hands-On Activities This Month?
If you want easy, ready-to-go activities that keep students engaged without the overwhelm, check out my Hands-On Holiday Centres available in both English AND French.
They’re low-prep, fine-motor rich, and a perfect fit for December when attention spans shrink and excitement grows.
👉 Browse my holiday activities on TPT right here
(You can send me the specific link you want to include!)