As we wrap up our last two days before a two week winter break, I am thinking of my fellow directors and teachers. Thank you for the hard work you do every day, the preparations you do to make life wonderful for the tiny humans in your charge, the support you provide to families and the encouragement you offer to each other. Wishing you happy holidays. In the words of Tiny Tim (from A Christmas Carol), “God bless us, every one!”

As we head into December transitions, it’s completely normal to see big feelings show up — even in classrooms where things are generally going well. Breaks change rhythms, routines, and expectations, and young nervous systems feel that. One of the most supportive things you can offer right now is a simple, predictable goodbye ritual. Not big plans. Not extra activities. Just consistency and connection. Here’s why it works: - Predictability lowers stress: Short, repeatable rituals tell children, “You’re safe. This is what happens next.” - Closure supports memory: Naming “what we loved” and “what comes next” gives children a simple story to carry through the break. - Previewing reduces worry: A calm “After the break, we’ll…” helps returning feel more manageable. - Small is enough: One consistent goodbye phrase or a simple countdown beats long explanations. - Connection over perfection: Brief, warm moments regulate nervous systems far more than packed plans ever could. Feel free to share what’s working in your school right now — or what you’re noticing showing up for children as routines shift this time of year.

I was wondering what y’all are doing for your teachers this holiday season…..specifically to show appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

Today’s conversation started with some real talk about holiday overwhelm and how to show staff they’re truly appreciated… and it naturally opened the door to a powerful discussion about intentional hiring, thoughtful planning, and building the kind of school culture that genuinely supports staff and families. It aligned so seamlessly with what we teach inside The Ultimate Preschool Playbook — and by the end we were all saying, “I needed this today.” We know some of you hoped to join but preschool life had other plans… so the replay is ready whenever you are. Turn it on while you’re wrapping up a bit of paperwork and enjoy a perspective shift for the rest of your week.

Holiday weeks stretch everyone’s nervous systems—kids, families, and teachers. A simple pickup flow helps staff stay grounded and prevents those “hot handoff” moments at the door. Try this 4-step pickup rhythm: 1. Start with what you noticed. “I noticed drop-off was hard today — lots of big feelings.” 2. Acknowledge the child’s experience. “She needed some extra support during transitions, and that’s okay.” 3. Share the plan (today or tomorrow). “We moved her closer to a teacher during circle, and it helped. Tomorrow we’ll try the same.” 4. Map the handoff. “I’ll send a short recap so you have the highlights.”