There’s something enchanting about homeschooling in December. Twinkle lights on morning walks, winter-themed read-alouds, warm mugs of cocoa by the table while math is being done. It’s a season full of possibilities.
With so much to enjoy this time of year, it’s also an excellent opportunity to pause and reflect on how far you’ve come. Whether this is your first year homeschooling or your tenth, December invites us to slow down just enough to notice the wonder, both in the world around us and in the growth we see in our children.
School in December: Balancing Joy and Focus
Let’s be honest: December energy is real. There are parties, performances, field trips, and family gatherings. For homeschoolers, the challenge isn’t just keeping up; it’s weaving in the joy while still keeping learning on track.
So, how do we maintain forward momentum when the calendar fills up?
Try these strategies:
- Anchor the day with a morning rhythm – even 30 minutes of focused work can set the tone.
- Use visual checklists to help kids stay on top of assignments before big events.
- Schedule academic blocks before afternoon outings or seasonal fun.
- Celebrate progress – a unit finished, a project turned in, or simply a day of best effort or being fully present or on track.
We can meet our goals and embrace the magic of the season.
What December Learning Looks Like
For younger learners:
This month is a wonderful time to connect literacy with seasonal picture books, explore winter nature walks, or dive into winter-themed science. Fine motor skills show up in handmade cards and crafts, and math can be reinforced through baking or playing board games.
For older learners and teens:
Academic expectations should stay steady. December is an ideal time to focus on completing your fall coursework with strong effort. Incorporate research projects, persuasive writing assignments tied to current events or holiday themes, and keep clear deadlines. Older students thrive when expectations remain consistent, even during the holiday season.
For the whole family:
Explore winter celebrations around the world, try out seasonal art, or cook a family recipe and talk about its cultural roots. These moments enrich learning while strengthening family connection.
Remember – Take Care of You
Amid the momentum of December, remember: you matter too. Homeschooling parents carry a heavy load, and this month can be intense.
Here are a few gentle self-care tips:
- Give yourself permission to say no.
- Make space for quiet moments, even if it’s just a hot cup of tea before the day begins.
- Celebrate your own wins. You ARE doing a great job! Keeping up with planning, encouraging a reluctant reader, and navigating a tricky subject are all wins!.
- Connect with other parents. A quick text thread, a park day chat, or an encouraging comment on social media can be uplifting.
Homeschooling in December requires energy, but it also fills us with some of the best reasons for homeschooling: creating memories, sharing experiences, and unexpected moments of joy.
Spark Wonder with These Resources
Books We Love
Picture Books
- The Shortest Day by Susan Cooper
- Winter is Here by Kevin Henkes
- Lights of Winter: Winter Celebrations Around the World by Heather Conrad
- A World of Cookies for Santa by M.E. Furman
Chapter Books
- The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
- Greenglass House by Kate Milford
- The Lotterys More or Less by Emma Donoghue
- Winterhouse by Ben Guterson
Enrichment & Inspiration
- Winter Hygge Activities for Families – Nourishing My Scholar
- December Homeschooling – The Cottonwood School Pinterest Board
- Winter STEM Activities – Little Bins for Little Hands
- Audubon Christmas Bird Count – Audubon’s 126th Christmas Bird Count Dec 14 – January 5, 2026
From Our Cottonwood Community
Join us this month for:
- Join us at the Lending Library for winter reads and crafty fun.
- Field trips and park days that connect our families and offer one-of-a-kind experiences.
- The International Festival and more holiday-themed gatherings – check your newsletters and your calendar!
Let’s embrace the wonder of winter together.
Kindly,
Cottonwood