Festive Writing Prompts to Spark Creativity in December

December is a magical month in the classroom. The build-up to the holidays can bring excitement, restlessness, and a fair share of glittery chaos! One brilliant way to channel that festive energy is through creative writing. Not only does it keep pupils engaged, but it also helps them practise key literacy skills while letting their imaginations run wild.

Here are some festive writing prompts you can use this month:

1. A Letter to Santa – With a Twist

Instead of the traditional wish list, ask pupils to write a letter from Santa to his elves. What instructions might he give before Christmas Eve? Or, perhaps pupils could write a letter to Santa from a reindeer, sharing what it’s really like to pull the sleigh.

2. The Day the Snowman Came to School

Encourage children to imagine what might happen if a snowman walked into their classroom. What lessons would he enjoy? Would he melt in the dining room? This prompt works well for descriptive writing and adding humour.

3. Christmas Around the World

Invite pupils to explore traditions in different countries. They could write a diary entry from a child celebrating Christmas in Mexico, Germany, or Australia. This not only sparks creativity but also broadens cultural awareness.

4. If I Lived in the North Pole…

Ask pupils to write about their daily routine if they lived in Santa’s village. Would they be toy makers, hot chocolate testers, or sleigh mechanics? This activity is perfect for expanding vocabulary and encouraging detailed descriptions.

5. The Lost Present Mystery

Create a mini festive mystery by asking pupils to write a short story about a present that goes missing from under the tree. Who took it? Where did it go? Can the characters solve the mystery before Christmas morning?

Top Tips for Teachers

• Add structure: Provide story starters or word banks to support reluctant writers.
  
  
• Encourage sharing: Let pupils read their work aloud—this builds confidence and classroom cheer.
  
  
• Make it visual: Pair writing with illustrations or display pupils’ work on a festive classroom board.

December can be a whirlwind, but these prompts give pupils a chance to channel their festive excitement into creative, purposeful work. And who knows? You might just uncover the next Charles Dickens in your classroom!