TL;DR:
- Teachers should use the summer break to reflect on the past year, relax, and recharge their batteries through self-care activities.
- It’s an opportunity for professional growth through courses, workshops, and seeking feedback from colleagues.
- Organizing and planning for the upcoming year, as well as staying physically active, contribute to improved job satisfaction and effectiveness as educators.
Unwinding Before the School Year: Self-Care for Teachers During Summer Break
As a teacher myself, I understand how important it is to take time for self-care and rejuvenation before heading back into the classroom. The last days of summer vacation provide a great opportunity for teachers to unwind, reflect, and recharge before the new school year begins. Here are some things to do that can help teachers with self-care and building the capacity to be their best selves when it’s time to go back to school.
Teachers should take time to enjoy the last days of summer vacation by doing things that help with self-care and building the capacity to be their best selves when it's time to go back into the classroom. Click To TweetReflect on the Past Year
Spend some time reflecting on the past year to help plan for the upcoming year. Reflecting on what went well and what didn’t go well can help refine your goals and refine your teaching plan. Additionally, considering the challenges you underwent during the previous year and learning from them may help you avoid them in the upcoming school year. Finally, reflect and determine the ideas and practices that contributed to your success as a teacher.
Relax and Unwind
It can be difficult to switch off the teacher mode but try to focus on doing things that you love and that make you feel relaxed. Whether it’s reading a book, going on walks, or spending time on your hobbies, it’s essential to make time to unwind and recharge your batteries. Relaxing and rejuvenation is a crucial component of self-care that needs to be done; without it, stress can accumulate, leading to fatigue.
Connection with Friends and Family
The summer holiday is a great time to connect with family and friends who may have been kept at bay due to a busy school year. Catch up with friends and family over a meal or a phone call. Social support is important, and connecting with loved ones can help you recharge, refresh, and boost your mental health.
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Professional Growth
Although it’s important to take time to relax and unwind during the summer, it’s also an excellent opportunity to invest in professional growth. Teachers can participate in online teacher courses, professional development workshops, and webinars, or even seek feedback from colleagues on how to further develop and improve their instructional strategies.
Organize and Plan Ahead
Take advantage of the time before school starts to plan and organize for the upcoming year. Refresh files and classroom displays and plan out first-day activities. Keep in mind that while it is good to have a plan, it is also essential to remain adaptable. The best plans sometimes do not always work out, and it is important to remain versatile and amenable.
Stay Active
Physical activity is essential for self-care and stress relief, and it’s also good for your overall health and well-being. Exercise can come in various forms, from walking, running, cycling, yoga, or even swimming. Make sure to engage in any activity that helps you to recharge and relax.
In conclusion, teachers should take time to enjoy the last days of summer vacation by doing things that help with self-care and building the capacity to be their best selves when it’s time to go back into the classroom. Reflection on the past year, relaxation, professional growth, organization, planning, and physical activity are among the things one can do to prepare their minds and bodies for another academic year. This has a crucial impact on job satisfaction, teachers’ personal well-being, instructional capacity, and, ultimately, overall effectiveness in providing quality education for their students.
About Colissa R. Jordan
Colissa R. Jordan is in her 20th year as an English Language Arts Educator. Currently, she teaches ELA 11th and 12th at Great Oaks Career Campuses in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is a former Adjunct at the University of Cincinnati. She has a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and enjoys sharing best practices with other educators. Teaching and learning is her passion. She is dedicated to teaching and empowering her students with the skills to be exceptional individuals!
