Christmas can be described in many ways—a time of excitement, but also one of stress, trauma, and dysregulation which you may see play out in the children in your classroom.
The structure and routine that grounds many children can feel suddenly ripped away. Consistent timetables and lessons might be replaced with carol concerts and festive activities, boundaries and expectations shift. This is followed by an extended period away from school, in diverse home environments.
For many children, this is a positive and fun experience. But for others, this sudden change can feel overwhelming and overstimulating. For some, home might not have the same feelings of comfort and safety that we might expect.
Preparing for the return to school after Christmas
In the lead up to Christmas, routines are broken and school becomes unpredictable. This is further exacerbated by an extended time away from school, meaning behaviour and developmental problems may regress upon the return to the classroom.
The festive period might result in an increase in disruptive behaviour, a decrease in engagement, a withdrawal from participation, or heightened emotional states. This is particularly likely for children that have experienced early trauma or have unstable home lives. Not all children have safe and happy homes, filled with laughter and presents over Christmas.
To ensure you support all children’s needs this Christmas, take a nurturing and trauma-informed approach to welcoming your pupils back in the new year.
Nurtureuk’s 10 tips this Christmas:
Language 🧠
Avoid questions such as “What did you get for Christmas?”. For families where money is tight, this question could trigger negative feelings.
Don’t assume everyone wants to talk about their Christmas break. Instead of asking “how was your Christmas?”, welcome them back into the classroom warmly.
Safe base 🔒
Don't assume that all children had a positive experience over the holidays. Re-establish school as their safe base.
Maintain access to a trusted adult to help with feelings of security and regulation, and deal with any emotions that might have been brought up over the Christmas period.
Wellbeing ❤️🩹
Have strategies in place to support those struggling. Put extra scaffolding in place for pupils that will likely need more help to regulate their emotions post-Christmas.
Look after staff wellbeing—this can be a sensitive time of year for many, particularly those who have experienced bereavements.
All behaviour is communication 🗯️
Behavioural incidents may increase in the new year due to increased stress and anxiety over Christmas. Remain curious about what this behaviour tells us and be adaptable to differing needs.
Address the emotional needs that are raised. Implement emotional check-ins, relaxation techniques, and peer support.
Transitions 🚃
Adapting to the school environment again can be challenging. Try visual aids, clear communication, and lots of patience.
Reinforce routine and consistency from day one, but understand that it might take time to settle into these again.