Returning to our “new normal” after the holidays means adjusting to various learning models—extended breaks, hybrid models, or fully online classes. Each situation presents unique challenges, from health concerns to anxiety among students, coworkers, and parents.
The biggest hurdle, however, is maintaining student motivation in these less-than-ideal learning environments.
Strategies for Maintaining Student Motivation
Setting Goals for the First Day Back
Start with a plan for the first day back after the holidays and make it a relaunch day. Spend time reconnecting with students and setting goals together. Involving students in goal-setting helps them focus on tasks. Fill the day with fun lessons, review games, and offer points or prizes for teams or individuals to boost engagement.
Incorporate Games into Your Lessons
Continue incorporating fun and games into your lessons throughout the week. Games keep students motivated and focused at any age, providing the context necessary to internalize information and gain proper understanding.
Many classroom games require teamwork, allowing students to collaborate. Struggling students can learn much from their more advanced peers during these activities. Additionally, games teach students the critical life lesson of understanding and accepting that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose.
There are countless ways to integrate games into your classroom. Use whole-group or small-group games, teacher-created games, or online games. These can be easily adapted to various subjects and skill levels to meet your student’s needs.
Prioritize Reconnecting with Students
Prioritizing connections with students is crucial for developing meaningful relationships that facilitate learning. As we return to school after the holidays, focus on reconnecting. Plan a fun-filled day to laugh and learn together.
Make time for individual chats to discover what happened during their break. Remember, some students feel safe and loved only at school and may need to talk about their experiences. Others may want to hear about your break because they missed you. Being available to listen is essential as we return.
Utilize Brain Breaks
Brain breaks are an effective way to reset the brain for learning and focus. Incorporating short bursts of physical activities helps break up the day and keeps students motivated and refreshed.
Knowing they’ll get frequent movement breaks encourages students to stay focused during academic tasks. I recommend using GoNoodle.com for these short activity breaks.
Virtual Field Trips
Due to COVID-19, traditional field trips are likely not an option. Field trips motivate students by giving them something to look forward to and a reason to focus on a specific unit of study.
Without this resource, consider using virtual field trips to maintain motivation and diversify activities. Starting a unit with a virtual field trip can help students visualize what they will be learning.
Social Time
Allow students daily time, whether in-person or virtual, to talk with each other, share ideas, and ask questions. Consider giving them time to chat before class starts or after it ends without direct teacher involvement. This helps them develop social skills and cultivate relationships with their peers.
Frequently Asked Question
How can I make the first day back after the holidays engaging for students?
Plan a relaunch day filled with fun activities and games. Reconnect with students, set goals, and incorporate interactive lessons to reignite their interest and focus.
What strategies can help maintain student motivation throughout the week?
Integrate games and fun activities regularly. Use whole-group or small-group games and adapt them to different subjects and skill levels. Games keep students engaged and make learning enjoyable.
Why is reconnecting with students after the holidays important?
Reconnecting helps build meaningful relationships, which are essential for effective learning. Chat with students individually to understand their experiences during the break and show that you care.
What are brain breaks, and how do they benefit students?
Brain breaks are short, physical activities that help reset the brain for learning. They keep students refreshed and motivated by providing regular intervals to move around and recharge.
How can I compensate for the lack of traditional field trips?
Use virtual field trips to maintain student interest and motivation. Virtual trips can be a great way to introduce new units and help students visualize their learning.
How can I encourage social interaction among students in a virtual or hybrid setting?
Allocate time daily for students to talk, share ideas, and ask questions. Allow them to chat before class starts or after it ends without direct teacher involvement, fostering social skills and peer relationships.
Conclusion
Keeping students motivated after the holidays requires a thoughtful approach that blends engagement, connection, and adaptability. By planning a dynamic relaunch day, incorporating regular brain breaks and fun activities, and utilizing virtual field trips, educators can reignite students’ enthusiasm for learning.
Prioritizing reconnection helps build the meaningful relationships essential for effective education while encouraging social interaction fosters a supportive learning environment. With these strategies, teachers can help students transition smoothly back into their academic routines, ensuring sustained motivation and focus throughout the year.
