Raindrops on roses? Whiskers on kittens? Bright copper kettles? Warm woolen mittens? These are great favorites but not the kind I have in mind for today. I’m talkin’ some classroom favorites for the month of December! Check out these suggestions for keeping students engaged and on task during the holiday season.
Jingle Bells: Swap out your standard attention grabber for a set of jingle bells. Instead of saying, for example, “One, two, three; eyes on me,” shake your bells!
Wrapped Packages: A stack of wrapped packages reminds students that Santa may be watching! Individually gift wrap one picture book for each remaining school day until holiday break. Include student favorites, holiday titles, or a mixture of the two. With Santa’s approval, close out each day by unwrapping and reading aloud one book.
Paper Chain: Yes, it’s the ole paper chain suggestion. But what the heck, it works! Promise students a holiday surprise when the chain touches the floor. Add a link to the chain each time the class receives a compliment from another adult or an act of kindness is observed.
Now it’s your turn! Please share your tips for keeping students engaged and on task during the month of December.
Merrily,
Diane
PS: Only a few days left to enter to win a Grinch Goody bag! Check out our First Friday Giveaway for the month of December HERE.
I often use ho ho ho as a attention getters and of course the jingle bells are used often too.
Love the “ho, ho, ho!” idea. Thanks for sharing, Darlene!
When the class is getting loud I pretend I hear slay bells – I stop what I am doing and say “Did you hear that, I think I hear slay bells “
This makes me smile! Fun idea!