Keeping Calm Before Thanksgiving: Rhymes and Routines That Work
The week before Thanksgiving can feel like a whirlwind in a preschool classroom.
Schedules shift, excitement rises, and little learners feel these big emotions in big ways.
But here’s the good news:
With steady routines, simple rhymes, and clear visual supports, this week can stay calm, connected, and joyful — for you and your students.
In this post, I’m sharing how to use rhythm + visuals + predictable transitions to create a grounding classroom environment during the busiest fall days.
1. Use Transition Rhymes to Anchor the Day
Rhymes are more than cute phrases — they’re predictable language patterns that help children regulate during uncertain or high-energy times.
When schedules shift, rhymes become touchpoints children can rely on.
Here are the four transition rhyme types I use all week long (these match your Transition Rhyme Tip Sheet Freebie):
Gathering Rhymes
Signal: It’s time to come together.
Example:
Hands together, eyes on me,
Let’s get ready — 1, 2, 3!
Focus Rhymes
Signal: We’re preparing to listen or learn.
Example (from your tip sheet):
Wiggle your fingers,
Wiggle your toes,
Take a deep breath…
Ready? Here it goes!
Freeze-and-Listen Rhymes
Signal: Pause and look toward the teacher.
Example:
Stop, look, take a breath,
Eyes up here so nothing’s left.
Closing Rhymes
Signal: We are ending an activity or circle time.
Example:
Smell the pie… (inhale)
Cool it down… (exhale)
Thankful hearts all around.
Using the same rhyme for the same transition all week helps students feel grounded — especially in the excitement leading up to a holiday.
2. Pair Rhymes With Visual Routines
Visuals and rhymes are a powerful combination.
Your Visual Schedule Cards for Holiday Transitions help children:
- understand the plan for the day
- anticipate changes
- reduce anxiety
- participate more independently
Post your visual schedule at child level and move a marker down as the day progresses.
This is especially helpful for events like:
- special snacks or feasts
- visitors
- assemblies
- early dismissals
- short weeks
👉 Try pairing each visual card with a transition rhyme from the tip sheet to reinforce routine + calm.
3. Add a Gratitude Rhyme to Circle Time
A simple rhyme can center the class and set the tone for the day.
Here’s one to use during the week:
I’m thankful for the friends I see,
I’m thankful for my family,
I’m thankful for this time to play,
I’m thankful for each brand-new day.
After reading or singing it, invite each child to share one thing they are thankful for.
This supports:
- expressive language
- social-emotional learning
- turn-taking
- connection and confidence
Pair this with a focus rhyme (like the one above) to help children transition smoothly into the next activity.
4. Prepare for Disruptions With Predictable “Mini Routines”
Sometimes the calmest classrooms are built from tiny routines that children can count on:
Try these mini-routines before Thanksgiving:
- Morning Arrival: Use the same gathering rhyme every day.
- Before Reading: Use the same focus rhyme + a deep breath.
- Before Transitions: Use freeze-and-listen rhyme consistently.
- End of Day: Use your closing rhyme + a visual dismissal routine.
Children thrive on knowing what comes next — especially during seasonal excitement.
5. Model Calm Before the Holiday Buzz
Your energy sets the tone.
If you slow down, breathe, and use steady rhythms and visuals, children will mirror that calm.
A teacher-centered reminder you can use:
Pause. Breathe. Speak slowly.
Your calm is the clearest visual support your students will ever have.
Ready for calmer transitions this week?
Download your free Transition Rhyme Tip Sheet and bring instant peace, predictability, and connection to circle time — even during busy holiday weeks.
👉 Grab your free tip sheet now!
Rhymes and routines work because they give children something predictable to hold onto — especially when everything else feels new or exciting.
This week, try pairing:
✨ a rhyme
✨ a visual
✨ and a predictable routine
You’ll create a classroom atmosphere that is grounded, joyful, and full of connection as Thanksgiving approaches.
One rhyme, one picture card, one calm moment at a time. 🍂
