Summer Self-Care for Teachers: You Deserve It (Yes, Even If You're Still Working)

☀️ Dear Teacher, You’ve Earned This

Whether your classroom is packed up or you’re still teaching in summer school, we want you to hear this loud and clear:

You deserve rest. You deserve joy. You deserve care.

At Kindergarten Crate, we see how hard you work—not just during the school year, but during “breaks” too. You’re lesson planning, attending PD, organizing centers, or maybe still teaching. And even if you *love* all of that (because let’s face it, teaching is kind of who we are), your cup still needs refilling.

This post isn’t about productivity. It’s about permission. Permission to rest, to play, to feel good in your own skin again. Here are a few ways to treat yourself with the same kindness and care you give your students every day.

🌸 1. Take a Real Break (Even a Small One)

Put away the laminator. Step away from Pinterest. Give yourself even a few days where you don’t think about school at all. Watch a guilty-pleasure show. Read a book that isn’t about behavior management. Let yourself be a human—not just a teacher.

🧁 2. Do Something That’s Just for *You*

That could be a daily walk, baking, bingeing an old sitcom, or getting a pedicure on a Tuesday just because. You’re not being lazy—you’re recovering. Let your brain and body come back to life outside of your classroom routine.

📚 3. If You’re Still Working... Be Gentle With Yourself

Teaching summer school? Running camps? Personal Development? You’re not alone. Even if you’re “still on,” you still deserve self-care. Make your coffee extra special. End your day with something that’s just yours. Schedule your rest like it’s a PD you can’t miss.

☕ 4. Reconnect With What You Love (In or Out of School)

Sometimes recharging doesn’t mean walking away—it just means reconnecting. If organizing your classroom library brings you joy, do it with music and snacks. If it doesn’t? Don’t touch it yet.

💌 5. Let Someone Else Take Care of You for a Change

This one’s close to our heart. That’s why we created Kindergarten Crate—so you can open a box each month that says “You matter.” Every book, activity, and teacher gift is a little reminder that you’re appreciated.

💛 You Matter (And We See You)

However you’re spending your summer—resting, traveling, catching up on sleep, or working—we see you. And we’re so thankful for everything you give your students.

So this week? Take care of you. You’re more than worth it.

– With love and appreciation, The Kindergarten Crate Team

📸 Share Your Self-Care

Taking a nap, sipping something cold, reading something fun? Tag us on Instagram @kindergartencrate and show us your summer self-care in action!