December in schools often comes with twinkling lights, buzzing excitement, and… distracted learners. Between holiday events, shifting schedules, and rising anticipation, it can feel like meaningful instruction is slipping away.
But instead of fighting against the holiday energy, what if you used it?
With a little creativity and intention, December can become a powerful opportunity to deepen learning, strengthen relationships, and keep students engaged—right through winter break.
Here’s how to channel December energy into meaningful learning moments, with grade-specific strategies you can use right away.
Lean Into Student Interests
Elementary School
Read holiday or winter-themed picture books and connect them to comprehension skills such as identifying the main idea, sequencing events, or comparing traditions. In math, use seasonal objects for counting, graphing, or simple word problems.
Middle School
Use holiday spending to teach real-world math concepts like percentages, discounts, and budgeting. In ELA, compare cultural holiday traditions through nonfiction texts. Social studies students can research winter holidays around the world.
High School
Debate consumerism during the holidays in economics or government classes. Analyze holiday literature or speeches for rhetorical devices in English. Use real data from holiday travel or shopping trends to explore statistics and data analysis in math.
Use Service Learning as Curriculum
Elementary School
Have students write letters or create cards for nursing homes, hospitals, or community helpers. These activities support writing standards while building empathy.
Middle School
Students can design simple service projects, such as organizing a food drive or creating awareness posters for local causes. Tie projects to persuasive writing, research skills, or project-based learning.
High School
Encourage students to research local community needs and develop service proposals. This integrates research, writing, and presentation skills while reinforcing civic responsibility.
Keep Learning Structured—but Flexible
Holiday excitement doesn’t mean abandoning routines. Students actually thrive when expectations remain clear. Post daily learning targets, maintain consistent lesson structures, and build in short, purposeful brain breaks. Predictable routines help students feel grounded, even when everything else feels different.
Build in Reflection and Gratitude
December is a natural time for reflection. Ask students to reflect on their learning growth this semester, set goals for the new year, and practice gratitude journaling or discussion. These moments help students develop self-awareness while strengthening classroom community.
The December Mindset Shift
December doesn’t have to be a month you “get through.” With thoughtful planning, it can be a month that adds value—academically and emotionally. When we embrace student energy, connect learning to real life, and stay grounded in strong instructional practices, December becomes a powerful reminder of why we teach.
Ready to strengthen engagement and rigor, no matter the season?
Learn more about how Tools for Success supports educators with practical, student-centered strategies at www.toolsforsuccessindy.com