The Christian EducatorA publication of North Valley Baptist Schools

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

By Melisa Vance

Christmas is the holiday that students look forward to the most each year.  What are we, as teachers, doing to make it enjoyable for them?  Are we doing our part to keep the Lord Jesus Christ the focus of the celebration? 

There are not many school days between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Unfortunately, that leaves little time to decorate the classroom, prepare engaging lessons, plan a Christmas party, and most importantly, keep the students focused on school; however, there are effective ways to make Christmas time fun for the children.  Decorating your classroom is the best way to encourage the spirit of Christmas.  When your students return from Thanksgiving break, they should be amazed as they step into their classroom and see snowmen, trees, bells, candy canes, and all other things that are associated with Christmas.  A bulletin board or designated area should be assigned for a manger scene.  This special scene can be used to inspire writing assignments or fuel discussions about baby Jesus and the true meaning of Christmas. 

Providing a variety of games can also be a great way to get students in the spirit of Christmas.  An easy Christmas activity is coloring sheets.  There are many helpful websites that provide free coloring pages.  You simply print them out and use them for a coloring contest or as a reward for those who have completed an assignment in a timely manner.

Students should look forward to an annual Christmas party.  It should include a gift exchange, delicious snacks, sweet treats, a craft, and a small gift from their teacher.

Please do not let the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season let you neglect an opportunity to do something special for your students.  Merry Christmas!

About the Author: Melisa Vance is the fourth grade teacher at North Valley Baptist Schools.