Inclusive Holiday Ideas

The holiday season is here, and I know what you’re thinking:

“How do I celebrate in a way that honors everyone in my building?”

It’s a real question. Because the truth is, not everyone celebrates the same way—and some families are just trying to make it through December without the added pressure of gift exchanges and elaborate traditions they can’t afford.

So here’s what I want for you this season: To create joy without leaving anyone out.

I put together some inclusive holiday ideas for teachers and leaders—simple, thoughtful ways to celebrate that make every student and staff member feel seen.

For Teachers: Classroom Celebrations That Include Everyone

1. Host a “Winter Celebrations Around the World” study

Let students share traditions from their own cultures. This isn’t about you teaching every holiday—it’s about creating space for students to bring their lived experiences into the classroom. When kids see their traditions reflected and valued, that’s when true belonging happens.

2. Plan a “Cozy Winter Day”

Hot cocoa. Good books. Community building. No religious tie-ins needed. Sometimes the best celebrations are the ones that just let kids be kids—warm, safe, and connected to each other.

3. Launch an “Acts of Kindness Challenge”

Spend the last week of December focused on giving back to the community. This shifts the focus from consumption to contribution and teaches students that the season is about more than what’s under a tree.

4. Read diverse books featuring winter holidays from multiple cultures

Hanukkah. Kwanzaa. Diwali. Winter Solstice. Las Posadas. When you only read Christmas stories, you’re sending a message about whose traditions matter. Representation in your classroom library isn’t optional—it’s essential.

For Leaders: Set Your School Up for Success in the New Year

For most schools, it’s evaluation time. As you’re closing out the year, ask yourself these critical questions:

1. Where are your teachers thriving?
   Name it. Celebrate it. Let them know you see the good work happening. Recognition isn’t just nice—it’s retention.
   
2. Where do they need support?
   Be honest. If your teachers are struggling with classroom management, culturally responsive practices, or just keeping their heads above water—now’s the time to plan for the support they’ll need in January.
   
3. What moves do you need to make next spring?
   Consider what’s working and what’s not. Do you need to shift resources? Provide targeted PD? Rethink how you’re supporting your most vulnerable students? Use this moment to get strategic about keeping this year on track—or finally getting on track to begin with.

Set the Vibe: An Inclusive Holiday Playlist

And because no celebration is complete without music, I created a playlist full of inclusive holiday songs your students will love.

Listen to the Holiday Playlist →

Think winter vibes, multicultural celebrations, and songs that make everyone feel welcome. Use it during transitions, cozy reading time, or just to set a joyful tone in your classroom.

Final Thoughts: Joy AND Inclusion

Here’s what I know: You don’t have to choose between celebrating the holidays and being inclusive. You can have both.

When you create space for every tradition, when you honor every family’s reality, when you lead with curiosity instead of assumptions—that’s when the holidays feel good for everyone.

So this December, let’s build celebrations that don’t leave anyone out. Let’s create joy that’s accessible to every single person in our buildings.

You’ve got this. And I’m here cheering you on.

Happy Holidays,
Dr. Deonna Smith