Teachers start counting down to summer break the moment the calendar flips to January 1st. We dream of stress-free, leisure-filled days, no lesson plans, no grading, and no classroom management. Nothingness.

But when summer finally comes? That annoying Teacher Brain kicks in, still on high alert:

 “You have so much time now. Get some stuff done. What’s your classroom theme going to be? Your management program needs work. Plan some fun lessons. Don’t forget, once the year starts, there will be all those overwhelming meetings and a million things to prepare. Better start now.”

Meanwhile, Summer Brain tries to push back:
 “Nah, you’ve been wanting to watch 1928 forever. Take a bunch of naps. Day drink for goodness’ sake. It can wait.”

But somehow… Teacher Brain wins. Again.

If you find yourself constantly in “school mode,” this list is for you. Here are 10 common ways teachers over-prepare during summer along with some simple strategies to help you slow down and take the break you deserve.

Our social media algorithms are programmed with numerous ads for teacher resources. We just can’t resist clicking on farmhouse or jungle-themed teacher decor; it’s in our DNA. Our willpower is entirely shot.

Take-a-Break Tip: Set a timer… 30 minutes max weekly of online browsing. The sales will be there in August.

2. Planning every week of the first month of school

Yes, the first weeks back are busy, but it’s hard to plan for a class that you don’t even have yet. This is summer break for a reason.

 Take-a-Break Tip: If you must, plan only for the first week of school. This will lighten the load but not consume your summer thoughts of blissful nothingness.

3. Pre-laminating all the things

Teachers love lamination so much that many of us buy our own machines for home use. But during summer, that shiny laminator in the corner starts whispering, “Just one name tag won’t hurt…” And before you know it, you’re deep into printing, cutting, laminating, and prepping labels for a class list you don’t even have yet.

Take-a-Break Tip: Out of sight, out of mind. Tuck the laminator in a closet. If you don’t see it, you won’t jump headfirst into that rabbit hole abyss.

4. Rewriting your entire classroom management plan

The past year of behavioral challenges begins to haunt you, and this leads to buying a new book on behavioral strategies.

This leads to the creation of charts, a currency system, and eventually searching online again for rewards and supplies—one vicious cycle.

Take-a-Break Tip: Do not read any education-related books over the summer. Trade for a trashy novel. If not, your Teacher Brain will just spiral into every related area.

5. Joining too many teacher Facebook groups

We love hearing what our peers have to say. But many times, actually most times, it leads to overthinking, anxiety, and fear that we aren’t doing enough.

Take-a-Break Tip: Mute the groups (except Bored Teachers, of course. Laughter is good for the heart and soul).

6. Daily classroom setup daydreams

There’s something about summer that turns teachers into interior decorators of classrooms they’re not even allowed into yet. We start imagining new desk arrangements, browse new paint colors, and obsess over whether this is finally the year to go full flexible seating. Trust me, it’s not. 

Take-a-Break Tip: Channel that creative energy into something that actually is relaxing, like rearranging the apps on your phone, doing a puzzle, or buying a new book.

7. Overcommitting to PD and Workshops

Did your principal promise inspiration and motivational seminars over the summer? Well, if it’s anything other than a spa day, they lied. We don’t need anybody telling us what we should be doing on our vacation. This will just lead to more planning and overthinking.  

Take-a-Break Tip: Pick one PD that genuinely excites you or is necessary for salary advancement. Otherwise, embrace the most freeing sentence of summer: “No, thank you.”

8. Watching THE videos

If you are a teacher, you know which videos I am referring to. They are the same ones that never change year after year on safety, universal precautions, sexual harassment, etc. etc.

We can recite them word for word at this point. Believe me, you don’t need to watch them right now.

Take-a-Break Tip: Wait. Put these on in the background while you write your standards on the board or something. We have memorized the test answers, so multi-tasking is key here.

9. Rewriting your back-to-school parent letter

It starts with a little rewording, but then you are looking for new fonts, clip art and polka dot backgrounds.

Take-a-Break Tip: Will parents even read it or admire the cuteness? The same tired old letter will be fine.

10. Stockpiling school supplies

We absolutely can not resist a good sale on items for our class. Two-for-one on Ticonderoga? Yes, please. Glue sticks in bulk at Costco? Throw them in. We are “saving” after all.

Take-a-Break Tip: Turn your head when you walk past the supply aisle. You do not need to see that in July. Spending money isn’t saving money.

Summer is for YOU!

Let’s be real: teachers are planners by nature. We like being ready. But summer isn’t just a break from school—it’s a break for you. It’s a reset button, not a planning period.

So go ahead—say it with me:

“Alexa, Teacher Brain: OFF.”

Watch 1928. Take that nap. Eat cereal straight from the box while wearing yesterday’s pajamas. Your classroom will be there in August.

You’ve earned more than a pause—you’ve earned peace, stillness, and some serious me time. Step away from the hot glue gun. Hide the laminator. The most productive thing you can do right now? Rest.

Because the best professional development for a great school year is a fully recharged you.

10 Ways Teachers