😊 Should Teachers Really “Not Smile Until Christmas”?

You’ve probably heard the old saying: “Don’t smile until Christmas.” But what does that even mean? 🤔

When I first started teaching, I took this phrase way too seriously. I walked into my classroom looking super intense 😐, trying to act tough. That lasted… about two days. Then I tried the opposite the next year—being everyone’s “best friend.” That didn’t work either 😅.

So what does “don’t smile until Christmas” really mean?

🔍 What Students Are Really Doing

During the first few weeks—or even months—students are testing you.
They want to know:

• Do you really mean what you say?

• Will you follow through?

• Are your expectations real or just words?

Kids don’t just listen to what we say—they watch what we do 👀.

🧱 What the Phrase Really Means

“Don’t smile until Christmas” isn’t about being mean, harsh, or angry ❌.
It simply means this:

For the first couple of months, stick to what you set.
Be steady. Be consistent. Hold students to the expectations you explained on day one.

✔️ Build it With Routines

You show students you mean what you say by using routines, procedures, and clear expectations. That’s how you build a strong classroom foundation 🧱.

So yes—you can smile! 😄
Just make sure your expectations stay strong from the start.

For more details click the image above to watch the video.