Festive Fun Without Losing Focus: Keeping Routines in Early Years. A blog post by MrsG_EYFS.
Nativity plays, Christmas concerts, fairs, jumper days, festive dinners— the holiday season brings endless excitement to schools. But with all the sparkle comes a whirlwind of change, and in early years settings, that can feel even more intense. Special Christmas activities, rehearsals, and day trips often disrupt the familiar rhythm of the classroom, making routines harder to maintain. For some children, this sudden shift can be overwhelming. So, how do we keep the magic alive while holding on to the structure that little learners need?
Why Routines Matter During the Festive Season
Consistency is key for young children. Predictability gives them a sense of safety and security— especially when everything around them feels different. During the festive season, your timetable will inevitably fill with special activities, but maintaining a level of normality and structure is essential. It helps support positive behaviour and keeps expectations clear, even amid the excitement. When routines remain familiar, children are more likely to feel calm and confident, which makes the classroom a happier place for everyone. Think of structure as the anchor that allows you to add festive sparkle without drifting into chaos.
Practical Strategies to Keep Structure
- Stick to Core Routines Wherever Possible
Keep familiar elements like snack time, playtime, and morning routines consistent. These small anchors help children feel secure and regulate their emotions, even when the day feels different. Maintaining these simple routines also gives you space to support any child who needs extra reassurance. - Balance Adult-Led and Child-Initiated Learning
Try to keep learning flowing for as long as possible. From experience, abandoning the timetable too early can signal to children that learning is over—often leading to chaos. Aim for at least one adult-led activity in the morning and one in the afternoon, while ensuring children have time to relax and explore provision. There is also no reason why these adult-led activities can’t be festive, but still focus on your core objectives. Plan these sessions around festive events. For example, if the class has been sitting for long periods at a pantomime or cinema trip, don’t expect them to return and immediately engage in a structured adult-led task. Instead, allow time for movement and play before regrouping. - Use Visual Timetables and Countdown Prompts
Visual timetables are a staple in early years classrooms, but during the festive season, they become even more valuable. After registration, talk through the day and remove each card as activities finish—this gives children a clear visual reference and helps them feel secure. Countdown warnings are equally important. Do you give a five-minute warning before transitions? Could you use an interactive countdown timer so children can see the time ticking down?
These simple strategies make off-timetable days feel structured without adding extra workload, helping children manage change with confidence.
Supporting Children Who Struggle with Change
For children with SEND or those who experience anxiety, the festive season can feel overwhelming. Planning ahead is essential. Use social stories to prepare them for events like the Nativity or Christmas party, and offer reassurance at every opportunity. Where possible, give choices to help them feel in control. Most importantly, create a calm space where any child can retreat if they need a break from the noise and excitement. These small steps can make a big difference in helping every child feel safe and supported during this busy time.
Keeping the Magic and the Balance
The festive season in early years is full of joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences— but it can also bring unpredictability. By holding on to core routines, balancing structured learning with child-led play, and using tools like visual timetables and countdowns, you create a sense of security that allows children to truly enjoy the magic of Christmas. Structure doesn’t dampen the fun— it provides the foundation for it. When children feel safe and know what to expect, they can embrace the excitement with confidence, and your classroom can sparkle without slipping into chaos.
MrsG has been teaching in Primary Schools, specialising in EYFS and KS1 for the last 13 years. She has taught across both key stages working as an Assistant Head, before heading back into the classroom full time after having her children. MrsG is now Senior Teacher in a small school, where she teaches in EYFS. She also works with ECTs supporting them with planning, workload, job applications and interview technique through her Instagram account instagram.com/mrsg_eyfs
Looking for help with your festive planning? Check out the Christmas Planning Bundle for everything you need to keep the focus in December.