December is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about fun ways to keep your 3rd graders engaged in learning. One great way to promote creativity and critical thinking skills in children is through journaling. December is the perfect opportunity to introduce new and exciting prompts that will add a little magic to this festive month.
Journaling is an amazing activity for children to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own unique way. With December journal prompts 3rd grade, students will explore topics like favorite holiday traditions, winter weather, and the spirit of giving. The prompts are designed to be age-appropriate, thought-provoking and, most importantly, fun! Whether writing about their favorite Christmas memory or their wish for the new year, children will develop valuable writing skills while having a blast.
December Journal Prompts for Winter Holidays
The winter holidays are a magical time for third-grade students. From the twinkling lights to the welcoming scents of baking cookies, there is no shortage of inspiration for journal prompts during this time of year. Here are 15 ideas to get your students’ creative juices flowing:
- What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?
- If you could create a new winter holiday tradition, what would it be?
- Describe your ideal winter day.
- What is your favorite winter holiday food?
- Write about a winter holiday celebration you attended.
- What gift would you give someone you love for a winter holiday?
- Write a letter to Santa Claus, thanking him for all the gifts you have received over the years.
- What is your favorite winter holiday memory?
- What are you thankful for this winter holiday season?
- What is one thing you would like to accomplish before the winter holiday season ends?
- What does kindness mean to you during the winter holiday season?
- What is one way you can show kindness to someone during the winter holiday season?
- Write a story about a snowman that comes to life.
- What is one thing you would like to learn about a winter holiday celebration in another country?
- Describe a winter holiday decoration that holds special meaning to you.
These prompts can help your students reflect on the joys of winter holidays while also developing their writing and critical thinking skills. Encourage them to use sensory details, dialogue, and descriptive language to make their journal entries come to life. Happy writing!
Don’t forget to check out our other December journal prompt subtopics:
Holiday Travel and
Creative Gift Ideas.
December journal prompts for Reflection
Reflection is an essential part of learning, and it allows students to think critically about their experiences and how they can improve. Journaling is a great way to encourage reflection, and it helps students to develop their writing skills. Here are 15 prompts for third-grade students to reflect upon in December:
- Write about a time when you showed kindness to someone.
- Reflect on a time when you had to use problem-solving skills to overcome a challenge.
- Write about a time when you felt proud of yourself for something you achieved.
- Reflect on a time when you learned something new and how you felt about it.
- Write about a time when you felt grateful for something in your life.
- Reflect on a time when you had to be courageous and how you overcame your fears.
- Write about a time when you worked hard to achieve something and finally succeeded.
- Reflect on a time when you had to apologize for something you did wrong and how you made it right.
- Write about a time when you faced a difficult decision and how you managed it.
- Reflect on a time when you had to work with a group and how you felt about it.
- Write about a time when you were disappointed and how you overcame it.
- Reflect on a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel.
- Write about a time when you had to be patient and how you managed it.
- Reflect on a time when you experienced something new and exciting and how you felt about it.
- Write about a time when you made a mistake and how you learned from it.
Encourage your students to reflect on their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. Remind them that there are no right or wrong answers when it comes to journaling, and that their writing is personal and private. Journaling is a valuable tool for self-discovery and emotional expression, and it can help students to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
By using these December journal prompts for reflection, your third-grade students will develop their writing skills and their ability to think critically and reflectively.
December journal prompts for New Year’s Resolutions
As the year comes to a close, it is a perfect time for third-graders to reflect on the past year and make resolutions for the upcoming year. Here are 15 prompts to help your students express their resolutions.
- What do you want to learn in the new year?
- What are your personal goals for the new year?
- What are your academic goals for the new year?
- What new activities do you want to try in the new year?
- What social skills do you want to develop in the new year?
- What goals do you have for your health in the new year?
- What kind things do you want to do for others in the new year?
- What new books do you want to read in the new year?
- What do you want to do to improve your relationship with family members?
- What do you want to do to improve your relationship with friends?
- What new foods do you want to try in the new year?
- What new hobbies do you want to explore in the new year?
- What do you want to do to improve your confidence in the new year?
- What new things do you want to explore about yourself in the new year?
- What do you want to do to improve your overall well-being?
Encourage your students to think deeply about their resolutions and make them specific and achievable. Remind them to write in complete sentences with proper grammar and punctuation. Congratulations on helping your third-graders to set meaningful and achievable resolutions for the new year!
Happy New Year!
December Journal Prompts for Snow Days
When snow days come around, it’s important to have fun and creative activities to keep your 3rd-grade students engaged and inspired. Journaling can be a great way to encourage literary expression, critical thinking, and creativity, while also providing an opportunity for reflection and relaxation. Here are 15 excellent journal prompts to inspire your students on snow days:
- What is your favorite thing about winter?
- If you could build a snowman, what would he look like?
- Describe the perfect snowball fight.
- What is your favorite winter sport?
- What is your favorite winter food or drink?
- If you had a pet polar bear, what would you name it and why?
- Write a short story about a lost sled that gets found by an unexpected character.
- What is your favorite holiday tradition?
- If you could design your own snowflake, what would it look like?
- What would be your dream winter vacation?
- Describe the most beautiful winter landscape you have ever seen.
- What is your favorite winter outfit?
- What is your favorite thing to do on a snow day?
- Write a poem about the sound of snow falling.
- What is your favorite winter-themed book, and why do you love it?
These prompts are a perfect way to get your 3rd-grade students’ creative juices flowing on snow days. Use these prompts in-class or encourage them to write at home with family members and friends, and watch as their writing, critical thinking, and literary expression skills soar.
By using these prompts, you can help your students develop strong writing and critical thinking skills, as well as cultivate a love of literature and creative expression. So the next time a snow day happens, you and your students will be ready with a fun and exciting way to spend the day!
December journal prompts for Giving and Kindness: 15 Ideas for 3rd Graders
Teaching children kindness and empathy is essential both inside and outside the classroom. In December, encourage your 3rd graders to express their gratitude and generosity by writing about giving and kindness. These journal prompts will help them reflect on meaningful acts of kindness they can do for others and how to make the world a better place.
- Write about a time someone showed you kindness, and how it made you feel.
- What is your favorite way to show others you care?
- How can you help someone in need without expecting anything in return?
- Write a letter to someone special thanking them for all they do for you.
- Think about what you would do if you found a wallet full of money. What would be the kind thing to do?
- What is something nice you can do for a classmate who is feeling sad?
- Write a story about a character who showed kindness to someone else.
- Interview an older person, such as a grandparent or neighbor, and write about what you learned from their experiences.
- What are some ways that you can make a difference in your community?
- Draw or write about a random act of kindness you can do this week.
- Write a poem about the importance of kindness.
- How can you help someone who is being bullied?
- Think about the last time you were angry or upset. What could someone have said to make you feel better?
- What are some things you can do to support a friend who is going through a tough time?
- Describe a good deed you have done in the past, and how it made you feel.
Encourage your 3rd graders to think about how small acts of kindness can create a positive ripple effect in the world. These December journal prompts will help them develop a compassionate mindset and cultivate positive habits for life.
As a teacher, it is important to reinforce the value of kindness and generosity in your classroom. These prompts will help your students build empathy and establish meaningful connections with others, creating a safe and inclusive learning environment. Happy journaling!
December journal prompts for Traditions and Customs: Exploring Number 6
Many traditions and customs related to December are associated with the number 6. The sixth day of December marks the feast day of Saint Nicholas, also known as Christmas Eve. It signifies the beginning of Christmastide in many countries. Beyond religious beliefs, other customs and traditions are also linked with the number 6 during December.
- Write about six holiday treats that you love to bake or eat at Christmas.
- Describe six ornaments that you cherish on your Christmas tree. Why are they special to you?
- Research how six different cultures around the world celebrate Christmas. Write about their unique customs and traditions.
- Write about six simple decorations that you would like to make with your family or friends this December.
- Imagine if you could have only six gifts this Christmas. What would they be, and why?
- Write about six sparkling or glittery items that you love to use in your December crafts.
- Write a letter to your future self, describing six things you hope to accomplish by next December.
- List six things that you are grateful for this year, and why they are important to you.
- Write about six books that you would like to read over the Christmas break. Why do they interest you?
- Write a story about six elves who help Santa on Christmas Eve. What are their roles, and how do they contribute to a successful Christmas?
- Write about your six favorite Christmas traditions with your family or friends. Why are they special to you?
- Research how six different animals survive in the winter. What adaptations do they have to survive the harsh weather?
- Write about six different sports or activities that you can do outdoors in the winter, and the precautions one should take before doing them.
- Describe six famous landmarks around the world that are decorated with holiday lights during December. Why are they so breathtaking?
- Write about the six best gifts that you have ever given to someone. What made them special?
These prompts encourage children to think creatively and explore various aspects of the December season. It also helps them develop their writing skills by expanding their vocabulary, improving their grammar, and enhancing their ability to convey ideas. Whether they are writing stories, describing traditions, or reflecting on their experiences, these prompts can evoke rich and meaningful responses.
Through these journal prompts, children can expand their understanding of traditions and customs associated with the December season, including the significance of the number six in these customs. By exploring these prompts, children can think about their own cultural beliefs and develop a deeper appreciation for diverse customs around the world.
FAQs about December Journal Prompts for 3rd Grade
1. What are December journal prompts?
December journal prompts are writing prompts given to 3rd graders to inspire them to write about different topics that relate to December. It helps foster their creativity and imagination.
2. Why are journal prompts important for 3rd graders?
Journal prompts are important for 3rd graders because it helps them develop their writing skills, vocabulary, and critical thinking abilities. It also encourages self-expression and reflection, which is vital in their personal growth.
3. What topics can be included in December journal prompts?
December journal prompts can include a wide range of topics, such as winter holidays, family traditions, winter weather, snow activities, and more.
4. How can parents or teachers help 3rd graders with their journal prompts?
Parents or teachers can help 3rd graders with their journal prompts by guiding them through the writing process, giving feedback, and offering suggestions for improvement. It’s important to create a supportive environment where 3rd graders feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.
5. Can students use illustrations to go along with their journal entries?
Absolutely! Illustrations can be a great way for 3rd graders to enhance their writing and bring their ideas to life.
6. What are the benefits of journaling during the holiday season?
Journaling during the holiday season can be a beneficial activity for 3rd graders as it allows them to reflect on their experiences, emotions, and viewpoints. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety during the busy holiday season.
7. How can 3rd graders make the most out of their journaling experience?
To make the most out of their journaling experience, 3rd graders should choose prompts that resonate with them and write from their heart. They should also consider using descriptive language, add details, and revise their work to improve their writing skills.
Closing Paragraph
Thanks for reading about December journal prompts for 3rd grade! Writing prompts are a great way to encourage children to develop their creativity and writing skills. Parents and teachers can use these prompts to facilitate meaningful conversations and help children reflect on the holiday season. Remember to visit us again soon to discover more exciting activities for your 3rd graders!