Summer is a vital time for teachers to recharge mentally, emotionally, and physically after a demanding school year.
TEACHERS OVER THE SUMMER:
Here are some meaningful ways teachers can refuel:
1. Rest & Rejuvenate
- Sleep in and rest without guilt — your body and mind need it.
- Unplug from work emails and grading — set clear boundaries for work-free time.
- Enjoy nature — hiking, the beach, gardening, or just being outside can do wonders.
2. Reconnect with Joy
- Pursue hobbies you didn’t have time for during the school year (painting, writing, cooking, etc.).
- Travel or explore locally — a change of scenery can offer a mental reset.
- Spend time with friends and family without the rush of a school schedule.
3. Reflect & Reset
- Journal about the past school year: What went well? What drained you?
- Set intentions (not goals!) for how you want the next year to feel.
- Organize your home or workspace if that brings peace — but only if it feels energizing, not like a chore.
4. Grow Personally & Professionally (If You Want)
- Read for fun — and maybe one or two inspiring professional books.
- Attend a low-pressure PD workshop or online course that sparks curiosity, not stress.
- Collaborate with other teachers to swap ideas or create fun resources at a relaxed pace.
5. Nourish Your Body
- Cook healthy meals, stay hydrated, and move your body in enjoyable ways.
- Try yoga, swimming, or long walks — no pressure, just movement that feels good.
6. Do Nothing (Seriously)
- Take guilt-free time to simply do nothing. Let your brain rest. Sit on the porch. Watch clouds. Binge-watch that show guilt-free.
Bonus: A Gentle Mid-Summer Check-In
Around mid-July, check in with yourself:
- Are you still tired? Then rest more.
- Feeling creative? Start light brainstorming for the fall if it feels fun.
- Don’t rush back into “teacher mode” — ease into it slowly.
STUDENTS OVER THE SUMMER:
Helping students transition smoothly to the next grade — without overwhelming them — is a powerful gift. The key is to keep it light, engaging, and confidence-building.
Here are strategies and resource ideas that strike that balance:
🧠 1. Focus on Core Skills in a Fun Way
Give students opportunities to practice foundational skills without it feeling like more school.
Ideas:
- Weekly review packets with just one page a day (math, reading, or writing)
- Choice boards with engaging, low-pressure activities like journaling, reading challenges, or fun math puzzles
- Themed review games (Bingo, scavenger hunts, Jeopardy-style quizzes)
📌 Tip: Keep it “bite-sized” — 10–20 minutes max per activity.
🎨 2. Integrate Creativity
Blend academics with art, movement, and real-world connections.
Ideas:
- Create a “Summer Writing Journal” with fun prompts like “Invent a new ice cream flavor” or “Write a postcard from space.”
- Assign a Passion Project (e.g., build something, make a recipe, or research an animal) and let students present it casually.
- Math in real life: Grocery store budgets, recipe fractions, or backyard measurements.
📚 3. Promote Independent Reading
Reading is one of the most effective (and low-stress) ways to prevent summer slide.
Ideas:
- Summer Reading BINGO or a themed challenge (beach reads, mystery books, etc.)
- Book swap list or a virtual reading club
- Encourage parents to let kids read graphic novels, magazines, or audiobooks — it all counts.
💌 4. Stay Lightly Connected (If Possible)
A gentle touchpoint can go a long way — especially for students who need a sense of structure.
Ideas:
- Send a monthly email/newsletter with 2–3 quick activities, book recs, or a motivational message.
- Host an optional “drop-in Zoom” or send a fun postcard to say, “I’m proud of you!”
- Create a Google Classroom or Padlet with optional resources they can explore at their own pace.
🛠️ 5. Offer Prep for Next Year… Gently
Help them feel curious, not anxious, about the grade ahead.
Ideas:
- “What You’ll Learn in ___ Grade” mini booklet or preview packet
- “Skills to Keep Sharp” checklist (with encouraging language)
- Short videos or read-alouds previewing topics or routines
✅ Teacher Tips for Creating These Resources
- Keep the design simple and visually clean
- Use checklists, visuals, and choice menus
- Prioritize review over new content
- Include encouraging messages and growth mindset language
Check out my store, Elly Elementary, for all your K-5th grade curriculum needs. I have resources for many of your end of year curriculum areas that your class will love. Also, plan for the start of the school year and enjoy yourr summer !!!
Join me on Facebook and Instagram. Let me know if you are looking for anything in particular. (Email: ellyelementary@gmail.com)
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