December is an exciting, yet often chaotic, month for teachers, parents, and students alike. While the holiday season brings joy and anticipation, it also introduces unique challenges in behaviour and focus. Through reflection, observation, and experience, I’ve identified several reasons why December tends to stir up misbehaviour—and how I navigate this with empathy and strategies that work, in the classroom, but also at home.

What Drives Holiday Chaos?

Holiday Excitement Overload: I know how much children love the holidays. I can see how they get distracted by lights, presents, and other seasonal elements, making it hard to focus on lessons. For instance, holiday parties and festive activities often disrupt the daily routine, creating a less predictable environment. In my experience, younger children are the most affected by these changes since they thrive in structured settings.

Pressure to Be “Good” for Santa: I’ve seen how the idea that “only good kids get presents from Santa” creates anxiety and pressure for many students. While this might sound motivating, children who struggle with impulse control often feel discouraged, like they’re doomed to fail. Even children who manage good behaviour at home might let loose at school, viewing it as a “safe” outlet.

 End-of-Year Burnout: By December, kids have been in school for months, and the routine can start to wear them down. Their energy levels drop, their patience thins, and even the most well-behaved students can struggle to stay on task. To this, you can add the countdown to the winter break and you get the special cocktail to ensure acting out. When kids know vacation is right around the corner, it’s all they can think about. The anticipation can make it hard to sit still or care about assignments.

Holiday Emotions: I’ve worked with students for whom this time of year isn’t always joyful. Family conflicts or financial hardships often come to the surface now. These emotions manifest in class as sadness, anger, or even defiance. Over time, I’ve learned it’s essential to pay attention to these children and help them express their feelings.

Pent-Up Energy from Staying Indoors: Cold weather usually means less outdoor playtime. Without a chance to burn off their energy, kids often fidget, talk out of turn, or get into conflicts with their peers.

Peer Dynamics: When one child misbehaves, others are quick to join in—especially when excitement is in the air. The classroom can feel like a domino effect of disruptions during December.

Teacher Fatigue: By the end of the year, teachers (myself included) are often exhausted. When our patience runs thin, it’s easy for kids to pick up on that, which can unintentionally escalate their behaviour.

Managing Holiday Chaos in the Classroom

It’s not easy to manage a classroom during the holidays, but a few thoughtful strategies help me maintain order without dampening the festive spirit. 

Channel The Holiday Excitement: I love organising themed activities to keep kids engaged. For example, we write letters to Santa, solve holiday-themed math problems, or work on creative projects. This allows them to express their excitement while staying focused.

Reduce Pressure: I try to convey to my students that they don’t need to be perfect. Instead of emphasising mistakes, I encourage them to be kind and make an effort. I tell them Santa values kindness more than perfection.

Stick to Routines: I’ve found that keeping a consistent daily routine helps tremendously. If changes to the schedule are inevitable, I prepare the kids in advance, explaining clearly what to expect.

Incorporate Movement Breaks: Throughout the day, I plan activities involving movement, like dancing, stretching, or even a few minutes of yoga. These help release energy and improve focus afterward.

Encourage Emotional Expression: I create opportunities for students to express their feelings through writing, drawing, or discussions. I’ve seen how even a simple moment of being heard can make a huge difference in their behaviour.

Foster Teamwork: I like setting common goals, such as preparing a small project or performing a good deed together. Whenever we achieve these goals, I reward them with a fun activity.

Take Care of Yourself: I’ve learned that if I’m calm and well-rested, the entire atmosphere in the classroom is better. I prioritise rest and make time for things that relax me, like reading or taking walks.

Managing Holiday Chaos at Home 

Be a Model of Calm: When I feel overwhelmed, I step away for a moment to regain my composure before reacting. I know that if I’m calm, my child will calm down more easily too. Sometimes I count backward from 20 or step into another room for a few minutes before addressing negative behaviour.

Validate Their Feelings: I’ve learned it’s crucial to acknowledge their emotions instead of dismissing them. Rather than saying things like “You’re overreacting” or “There’s nothing to worry about,” I try to say, “I understand how you feel. I’m here.” I’ve seen how this helps them open up.

Limit Overcommitment: The holidays can be overwhelming, so I choose a few meaningful activities and don’t try to visit every relative, attend every event, or do everything. Children appreciate simple, authentic moments more.

Spend Quality Time Together: I prioritise moments of connection, like reading bedtime stories or preparing a meal together. These activities create memories and help children feel loved.

Be Flexible: When my children’s behaviour becomes too intense or chaotic, I ask myself if they’re tired or just need attention. I try to give them space and support rather than criticism.

Encourage Gratitude: I shift the focus away from Santa’s “naughty list” to gratitude. I encourage my kids to reflect on the good things in their lives. Sometimes we make gratitude lists together, and I show them how they can give back to others.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

For me, December is a magical month, but it also requires a lot of patience and understanding. I try to see children’s challenging behaviour as a reflection of their excitement, stress, or exhaustion and to support them as best as I can. The holidays are about connection, love, kindness, and joy—and it all starts with me.