How Teachers Can Truly Relax This Thanksgiving Break (Without Feeling Guilty!)
Thanksgiving break is finally here — and if you’re anything like most grades 3–5 teachers, you’ve been counting down the days. This time of year is magical in the classroom, but let’s be honest… it’s also exhausting. Between assessments, holiday events, parent communication, and endless planning, you’ve probably been running on caffeine and sheer willpower.
So, before you spend this entire break catching up on laundry, grading piles of assignments, or planning December lessons, let’s pause. This break is for you too. You deserve rest, peace, and moments that fill your cup again.
Here are simple, practical ways to actually relax this Thanksgiving break — guilt-free.
1. Give Yourself Permission to Do Nothing
Teachers are wired to stay busy — even on vacation. But rest is productive.
Take a slow morning. Enjoy coffee without watching the clock. Binge-watch your favorite show. Take a nap just because.
This break isn’t about being efficient; it’s about being human.
2. Set a “Work-Free Window”
Even if you choose to do a little planning or prep, give yourself a few full days where school is completely off-limits.
No grading.
No emails.
No Pinterest lesson ideas.
No guilt.
Just time for you — your family, your hobbies, your sanity.
3. Make Time for Movement (the Fun Kind!)
Movement doesn’t have to mean a workout. It can be:
A peaceful walk around the neighborhood
Dancing in the kitchen while cooking Thanksgiving sides
Playing outside with your kids
Yoga or stretching while listening to music
Gentle, happy movement helps release stress that’s been building all semester.
4. Connect With People Who Refill Your Spirit
Teachers pour into students nonstop. Now is your moment to let others pour into you.
Reach out to the people who make you laugh, who listen without judgment, who feel like “home.”
Spend time with them — even if it’s just a quick coffee or FaceTime chat.
5. Create One Little Tradition Just for Yourself
Maybe it’s lighting a fall candle every morning.
Maybe it’s reading a book for pleasure (not PD!).
Maybe it’s baking something you love.
Or wearing your comfiest pajamas all day.
A small ritual tells your brain: This is my time.
6. Step Away From the To-Do List
Yes, there will always be tasks waiting.
But not everything needs to be done this week.
Choose 1 or 2 things that truly matter and let the rest sit until December. The world won’t fall apart — promise.
7. Nourish Yourself With Intention
Thanksgiving is delicious… but also chaotic. In the middle of the holiday rush, choose at least one moment each day to slow down and enjoy something that makes you feel good:
A warm cup of tea
A comforting meal
A long shower
A quiet morning outside
Small moments of nourishment create real rest.
8. Plan One Mini Joy for After the Break
Having something to look forward to makes returning to school feel easier. Try:
A December classroom activity you’re excited about
A simple self-care treat (new winter mug, a cozy sweater, a planner for 2025)
A fun read-aloud or writing project your students will love
When you’re inspired, your students feel it too.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve This Break More Than You Know
Teaching is heart work — and it takes a lot out of you. Thanksgiving break isn’t just a pause… it’s an opportunity to breathe, reset, and remember who you are outside the classroom.
So, take these days slowly. Be gentle with yourself.
Rest without guilt.
Enjoy without pressure.
And return feeling refreshed, calm, and ready to bring joy into your December classroom.
Happy Thanksgiving, Teacher Friend — you truly deserve every bit of rest coming your way. 🧡🍂
Warm Wishes,
Johanna
