If you feel like you are on a treadmill going too fast and also that treadmill is underwater and you are drowning, you are probably a teacher and here are a few things you can try to make it to Thanksgiving break alive ; )
🎵 Find your song
You know, the one that gives you inspiration or reminds you that all you are doing right now is enough. One of my favorites is an oldie but goodie “Garden Party” by Rick Nelson. “You can’t please everyone but you’ve got to please yourself.” I’ve listened to that song and repeated that phrase over and over. A new favorite is called “Hope” by Arlo Parks. Feel free to borrow 😉
📅 Reuse, repurpose, recycle
Allow yourself a break with planning new things constantly. Reuse things that have worked. It’s okay to repeat and review. Have them play partner games. Play place value bingo (grab free boards here). Give them a couple worksheets you printed but never got to. Let your students have extra time doing a preferred activity (or have them earn it!) like time on devices or reading with a partner. Use the time to catch up on some grading or organizing.
🤗Connect with your team/teacher bestie
Misery loves company. Often times, the most difficult seasons bring us closer together. Go out to dinner with your colleagues. Buy matching shirts to flaunt on dress down Fridays. Send a ridiculous amount of group texts griping or celebrating about anything and everything school and family. Get your troubles off your chest and have a laugh. Bring a special treat for lunch. ANYTHING to show your school family you care and also to commiserate with the ones who understand the most. Remember, you are not alone!
🦃 Have some fun!
Match their excitement. Stop fighting it and join in. #ifyoucantbeatum Plan FUN, engaging activities and try to forge why you are losing your mind. Start a new whole class incentive. Have the reward be a movie and make sure they earn it. Plan it for the day before Thanksgiving break and then everyone wins.
📺 When all else fails…
Put on a video.
You are a teacher and it is Tough with a capital T. But you will have everything to be thankful for this Thanksgiving break.
