by California Casualty | Educators |
Get ready to turn your classroom into the most festive world tour your students have ever taken. From sparkling lanterns to joyful songs and colorful crafts, the season offers endless opportunities to help students discover the beauty of different cultures. By weaving these global customs into your lessons, you can create a classroom where curiosity thrives, connections grow, and every child sees their world expand in meaningful, memorable ways.
Pro Tip: Survey your class before you start the tour of the holidays. That way you can include the traditions of all your students. Then, call upon your resident “experts” and their families as you teach these lessons.
Here are the winter holidays listed in roughly date order. Note that some holidays are fixed to a date, while others will move around the calendar from year to year.
St. Nicholas Day
Observed in parts of Europe on December 6, this holiday honors St. Nicholas, known for anonymous gift-giving and acts of kindness.
Classroom Activity:
- Have students leave their shoes in the hallway. Ask a staff member or parent fill the shoes with treats like stickers, pencils, or candy for a joyful surprise.
- Reward acts of kindness in your classroom with St Nicholas stickers.
- Organize a service project such as a classroom collection of socks or toys, or have your students write notes to seniors in nursing homes.
Las Posadas
Las Posadas is a beloved Mexican and Latin American tradition held Dec. 16–24. It reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. The celebration features processions, candlelit prayers, music, and piñatas.
Classroom Activity:
- Make decorative paper-bag lanterns with flameless candles.
- Create individual mini piñatas with paper cups decorated with colorful crepe paper fringe. Fill them with candy.
- Have students act out the procession by knocking on classroom doors and when welcomed, singing a Spanish song and giving out treats.
St. Lucia Day
Celebrated on December 13 in Sweden, Norway, and Finland, this Festival of Light honors St. Lucia. The celebration features candlelit processions, saffron buns, and gingerbread treats. There are themes of light and kindness.
Classroom Activity:
- Find the Scandinavian countries on a map and learn about their locations and climates.
- Make paper St. Lucia crowns with candle cutouts.
- Read by “candlelight” (flashlight or flameless candles) in your classroom. If you like, include a gingerbread treat.
Hanukkah
The eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple. Students enjoy learning about menorahs, dreidels, and foods fried in oil like latkes and donuts.
Classroom Activity:
- Play the dreidel game (math integration bonus!)
- Make edible dreidels. Put a pretzel stick in a marshmallow for the top. Use icing to “glue” a Hershey’s kiss to the bottom.
- Make a paper plate menorah. Cut it in half and draw the candelabra branches. Decorate with construction paper candles.
Dongzhi Festival
This East Asian festival celebrates the Winter Solstice — the shortest day and longest night of the year. It’s observed by eating symbolic foods like rice balls and dumplings.
Classroom Activity:
- Make a yin-yang design as a lesson on balance and harmony.
- Create simple lanterns to celebrate the return of light.
- Explore the concept of the Solstice and track when spring will arrive.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid marks the end of Ramadan and emphasizes empathy, gratitude, and charity. Feasting, giving gifts, and sharing with the community are common.
Classroom Activity:
- Create mobiles featuring the crescent moon and stars.
- Make a kindness jar inspired by Eid traditions. Use it to record acts of kindness that students are doing in your class and outside of it.
- Use a world map to find the countries that celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Christmas
Celebrated worldwide on December 25, Christmas includes traditions ranging from religious observances and nativity scenes to more secular gift-giving, caroling, and decorating trees.
Classroom Activity:
- Use your classroom library to host a Book Flood like Iceland does for Christmas Eve.
- Make and decorate stockings or ornaments.
- Use the 12 Days of Christmas song for a math tie-in. Younger grades can draw, group and count the gifts; older ones can total the cost for each day.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a celebration of African heritage observed in the U.S. from Dec. 26–Jan. 1. Each day honors one of the Seven Principles, represented by candles in a kinara. The principles are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Classroom Activity:
- Cut red and green paper strips and weave them through black construction paper into a Kwanzaa mat, called a mkeka.
- Use cardboard toilet paper rolls to create a kinara with one black, three red and three green candles.
- Older students can look up the meanings of the principles and create stories that show a principle in action.
Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year)
Chinese New Year is a vibrant celebration of renewal, family, and good fortune marking the start of the new lunisolar year (between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20). Students love learning about zodiac animals, lanterns, and the symbolism behind red decorations.
Classroom Activity:
- Have students discover their zodiac animal, or choose one that they like, then write a short persuasive piece about why it fits their personality.
- Create paper lanterns to adorn the classroom.
- Decorate red envelopes and fill them with written wishes for the new year.
With thoughtful preparation, accurate research, and family involvement, the holidays can become a memorable learning journey around the world. And no matter how you celebrate, happy holidays from all of us at California Casualty!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Nurses |
If your junk drawer had surgical scissors, chores were charted, and the doctor was the last place you went when you were sick…you were probably raised by a nurse. From the way you automatically diagnose every sniffle to your uncanny ability to stay calm in chaos, these quirks didn’t just appear out of thin, disinfected air. No — this is the lifelong imprint of being raised by someone who can manage a full-blown medical emergency before their morning coffee.
And while every nurse-parent household comes with its own charming quirks, there are some universal truths that bind all of us together. Here are the all-too-real, laugh-so-you-don’t-cry signs that you were almost definitely raised by a nurse.
First, nothing you could do — and we mean nothing — would gross out your nurse mom or dad.
You could walk into the kitchen covered in mystery goo, or something you really hope wasn’t from the dog, and they wouldn’t flinch. Dinner table conversations included references to mucosal lining or infected fluid. If you tried to complain about your day, you were instantly shut down by a story that began with “Well, my day started with a guy who had…” and ended with you pushing away your mashed potatoes forever.
Second: You couldn’t fake sick.
Other kids got away with a dramatic cough and a hot forehead they heated with a lamp. You? Not a chance. You lived with a human lie detector. That time you said you felt dizzy to get out of gym class? They checked your pupils with a penlight and sent you to school anyway. Because in your house, 101.5° was a “low-grade fever,” scrapes got a squirt of saline and a pep talk, and if you weren’t actively losing consciousness, you were fine.
Medical terminology became your first language.
Other kids said, “tummy ache.” You said, “GI upset.” Other kids got shots. You got “immunizations.” You grew up casually tossing around terms like “laceration,” “vitals,” and “CVA” before you could spell your own last name. You didn’t poop — you had a bowel movement. And to you, that wasn’t weird.
You are completely unfazed by medical drama.
Real blood? Eh. A little gore? Please. Your nurse parent was the one pausing medical shows every 12 seconds to yell, “That’s NOT how you insert an IV!” while you sighed and reached for snacks.
Scrubs were everyday attire.
And half the “office supplies” in your home were actually low-key hospital equipment. Need tape? You’re getting surgical tape. Need scissors? You’re getting bandage scissors. Your school science project may or may not have included tools “borrowed” from work. (Strictly for educational purposes, of course.)
You laugh at needles.
You don’t blink at catheters. Someone snaps a latex glove and everyone else jumps — meanwhile, you’re like, Oh good, they’re prepared.
Your life was one big pain scale.
No matter what happened — stubbed toe, heartbreak, existential crisis — you heard, “On a scale from one to ten, what’s your pain level?”
Pens. My goodness, the pens.
You were taught to carry four extras at all times. Losing one was treated like a minor tragedy. Losing two was a family emergency.
Everyone asks your parent for medical advice.
Friends. Teachers. Coaches. Your roommate. Your roommate’s grandmother. Everyone you’ve ever met has, at some point, said, “Hey, can you ask your mom/dad what this rash might be?”
Your parent missed some events—but not out of lack of love.
They worked nights, weekends, holidays, and shifts that defy the laws of sleep. You learned early that “sleeping at noon” wasn’t lazy — it was survival. And when they were there? They cheered loud enough for everyone.
And finally: you’ve probably made up your mind about nursing.
You’re either 100% inspired to follow in their footsteps…or you want absolutely nothing to do with bodily fluids ever again. Either way, being raised by a nurse is its own unforgettable, hilarious, occasionally exasperating, always love-filled experience — and you wouldn’t change it for the world.
At California Casualty, we’re proud to stand behind the nurses who stand behind all of us — providing quality, reliable, and cost-effective home and auto insurance for those who give so much every single day.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Health, Helpful Tips, Peace Officers |
Every call, every shift, every split-second decision places police officers under pressures most people will never experience. Over time, that constant strain can take a real toll — on mental health, physical well-being, and even job performance. The good news is that effective stress management isn’t just possible; it’s essential, practical, and within reach.
In this guide, we’ll explore strategies designed to help officers stay grounded, resilient, and ready for whatever the day demands.
Understanding Stress
Stress is your body’s natural response to perceived threats. It triggers a chemical reaction commonly known as “fight or flight.” While small amounts of stress can keep you alert and focused, prolonged stress can have serious consequences for both your body and mind.
Why Managing Stress Matters
Policing is high-stakes work. Your body and mind are on high alert for hours at a time, day after day. If stress is left unchecked, it can contribute to:
- Heart disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Sleep disturbances
- Depression and anxiety
- Marital and relationship strain
- Weight gain and poor nutrition
- Job burnout
Managing stress isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about protecting your health, your career, and your relationships.
Practical Steps to Take Control
1. Move Your Body
Exercise keeps you strong, alert, and mentally sharp. Even short daily workouts can help you manage stress levels and improve overall health. The key is consistency and enjoyment — choose activities you actually like. Include both:
- Strength training to build endurance and reduce injury risk
- Cardio to boost energy and clear your mind
2. Eat for Energy and Focus
Fast food and processed meals are convenient, but they can add to stress and fatigue. Limit saturated fats, added sugars, and mindless snacking. Plan meals that include:
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains and high-fiber foods
- Lean proteins
3. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Shift work can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm, making rest essential. Even a small nightly wind-down routine, like stretching, reading, or deep breathing, can dramatically improve your rest. Try these strategies:
- Set consistent sleep and wake times — even on off-days.
- Avoid caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime.
- Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
- Limit screen time before bed; blue light can interfere with sleep.
- Use your bed for sleep only — avoid reading or scrolling in bed.
4. Master Relaxation Techniques
Taking time to unplug and recharge is critical. Slowing down can help your mind recover and make you more effective on the job.
- Turn off your phone and step away from emails.
- Try meditation, deep breathing, or journaling.
- Engage in hobbies or non-work activities.
- Schedule vacations and mental health days.
5. Lean on a Support System
Strong relationships can buffer the effects of stress. Maintaining connections and talking openly about stress reduces isolation and helps prevent burnout. Consider:
- Family, close friends, or faith-based communities
- Counseling or professional support when needed
- Fellow officers: use a buddy system to check in on each other
6. Separate Work from Home
Work-life balance is crucial. Clear boundaries protect your personal life and ensure you return to work refreshed. Techniques for creating boundaries include:
- Create a “shutdown” routine at the end of your shift.
- Take a moment to reflect on what you accomplished.
- Use your commute to decompress with music or a podcast.
- Avoid checking work email while at home.
7. Expand Your Social Circle
While friendships on the force are invaluable, it’s also important to connect with people outside policing. Non-police friends can provide a fresh perspective and a healthy break from work-related stress.
- Reconnect with old friends or family members you haven’t seen in a while.
- Join a hobby group, sports league, or community class to meet people with shared interests.
- Volunteer in your community to interact with different groups.
- Seek out social gatherings where you can talk about things other than work.
8. Practice Gratitude
Taking a moment to recognize what’s going well in your life can help shift focus from stressors to positives. Even a simple daily reflection can improve mood and resilience.
- Acknowledge people who help you. A quick thank you to a dispatcher, partner or supervisor and boost morale for everyone.
- Notice small wins — the successes that make you feel good about your job.
- Post a gratitude reminder on your dashboard, locker or phone to pause and reflect during stressful shifts.
- Share gratitude at home. Express your thanks to the people who are important in your life.
The Benefits of Stress Management
When you take intentional steps to manage your stress, you give yourself the best chance to stay healthy, think clearly, and show up as your strongest self — both on and off duty. Officers who actively manage stress often experience:
- Better physical health
- Greater mental well-being
- Improved job satisfaction
- Clearer decision-making
- Stronger community relationships
You give so much to your community every day, and you deserve resources that look out for you in return. At California Casualty, we are proud to provide police officers with quality, reliable, cost-effective home and auto insurance for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Pets |
If you’ve noticed your dog looking a little rounder than usual, you’re not alone. It happens gradually, almost sneakily — even to the most loving and attentive owners. The good news? Helping your dog get back to a healthy weight doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be a rewarding, bonding journey filled with new routines, more play, and a happier, more energetic pup.
Why Those Extra Pounds Matter
A chubby dog may look adorable, but the health risks are anything but cute. Obesity is linked to serious conditions in pets, including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Heart, liver, and kidney disease
- Certain cancers
- A shortened lifespan
Even a few extra pounds can place stress on your dog’s joints and organs. Think of weight-loss efforts not as a diet, but as an investment — one that pays off in more comfortable movement, better sleep, extra years of life, and that unmistakable sparkle in your dog’s eyes when they feel good.
Is Your Dog Overweight?
Every dog breed has its own natural shape, so it’s important to look at your pet’s individual build. Here are three simple checks you can do at home. These quick visual cues give you a starting point, but your veterinarian remains the best source for an accurate assessment.
- Rib Check
Run your hands along your dog’s ribcage. You should be able to feel the ribs easily beneath a thin layer of fat — not pressing hard, just lightly gliding your fingers.
- Waist Check
Look down at your dog from above. Do you see an obvious waistline behind the ribs? If not, or if the body looks oval instead of hourglass, that may indicate extra weight.
- Tummy Tuck Check
Now look from the side. Your dog’s abdomen should slope upward slightly from the ribcage toward the hind legs. A sagging or straight line usually means excess fat around the belly.
Start with a Vet Visit
Before making any changes, schedule a checkup. Think of your vet as your dog’s personal trainer and nutritionist rolled into one. Your veterinarian can:
- Rule out underlying health issues like arthritis or thyroid disease
- Identify an ideal weight goal
- Recommend a safe daily calorie target
- Suggest food options tailored to your dog’s needs
Think Slow and Steady
Crash diets are unsafe for dogs and ineffective long-term. A healthy pace for canine weight loss is typically 1–5% of current body weight per month. Gradual progress prevents metabolism slowdowns, reduces hunger-driven begging, and helps your dog lose fat while maintaining muscle. Small improvements, made consistently, lead to big results.
Choosing the Right Food
You may want to stay with your dog’s current food or switch to a healthier diet. That doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive bag on the shelf. What matters is choosing a formula that aligns with your dog’s goals. Options to consider include:
- Prescription weight-loss diets: Great for dogs with significant weight to lose or underlying health issues.
- Low-calorie kibble: Many brands offer lighter formulas.
- Senior formulas: Often lower in calories to match lower activity levels in older dogs.
- Wet food: Higher water content keeps pups fuller while reducing overall calories.
Count the Calories (Yes, It Matters!)
Just like with people, portion size is often the real culprit.
- Measure every meal — don’t eyeball it.
- Use a kitchen scale or a measuring scoop for accuracy.
- Track calories from treats. (They count!)
When it comes to treats, think outside the (biscuit) box. Many dogs enjoy baby carrots, blueberries, plain green beans, or ice cubes. These crunchy snacks satisfy without blowing the daily calorie budget.
Smaller, More Frequent Meals
If your schedule allows, breaking meals into two or three smaller feedings throughout the day can help curb hunger and begging. This simple shift can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort—and your sanity.
Movement: Make It Fun — and Make It Daily
You don’t have to train for a marathon. You just need to get moving together. Aim for 30 minutes of daily activity, adjusted for your dog’s fitness and health. Options your dog may enjoy include:
- Walks
- Swimming
- Hiking
- Fetch
- Tug play
- Games
- Doggie playdates
- Agility or fitness classes
If your dog is significantly overweight, start slow. Watch for heavy panting, lagging behind, or signs of discomfort. Keep water available and increase activity gradually. Most importantly, make it enjoyable. Your dog will feed off your energy — so smile, laugh, chat with your pup, and celebrate the moments you’re spending together.
Keep Track of Progress
Some animal hospitals offer free weight checks, and many pet stores have scales as well. Progress can be subtle at first, but seeing those numbers shift (even a little!) is incredibly motivating.
Celebrating non-scale victories keeps the journey positive. You can also track:
- Energy level
- Mobility
- Ease of getting up
- Endurance on walks
- Coat condition
Get the Whole Family on Board
Helping your dog reach a healthy weight is an act of love, and consistency is key. If one person sneaks table scraps, adds extra kibble, or gives too many treats, progress stalls. Agree as a household on the plan — portions, treats, activity, and rules. That way, your dog gets a clear, consistent message and a greater chance at success.
A Final Note About Protection
Health journeys sometimes come with unplanned vet expenses. Having pet insurance can help offset larger costs and keep your dog’s wellness on track. You can easily add Pet’s Best pet insurance to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Talk with a California Casualty customer service representative to learn more about what pet insurance can cover.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips |
Amid the rush of shopping, cooking, and gathering, it’s easy to overlook the quiet power of gratitude — the way it lifts spirits, strengthens connections, and brings a sense of peace to our busy days. This season, take a moment to slow down, look around, and start a practice of gratitude that can last well beyond the holidays.
Why Share Gratitude?
Being grateful isn’t just a nice idea — it can truly help your mind and body feel better. Research shows that practicing gratitude can:
- Boost your mood: Focusing on the good things in your day, big or small, can help you feel happier and more hopeful.
- Improve relationships: Saying “thank you” brings people closer, builds trust, and often inspires others to be kind in return.
- Reduce stress and worry: Gratitude helps you relax and see things in a more positive way.
- Make you stronger during tough times: The more you practice gratitude, the easier it becomes to stay steady and positive when life gets hard.
The key word here is practice. Gratitude isn’t something we turn on in November and turn off again in January. It becomes most powerful when woven into our daily routines — quietly, consistently, and intentionally.
How to Start
Notice the people, comforts, and experiences that bring meaning to your life. Think about family members who support you, friends who make you laugh, teachers and mentors who guide you, and the first responders, police officers, firefighters, nurses and healthcare workers who keep communities safe and strong. Then, decide how you would like to express your gratitude.
Below are some practical, heartfelt ideas you can use to show thanks this season — and make gratitude a natural part of your everyday life.
1. Write Handwritten Notes
A handwritten note carries a warmth that a text or email can’t match. It shows the recipient that you took time out of your day specifically for them. A simple “You make my days brighter,” written by hand, can become something the other person holds onto for years.
- Share why you’re thankful for them. The best notes are personal so make them specific as to how that person has helped you.
- Leave short notes of encouragement in unexpected places: a coworker’s desk, a child’s backpack, or a partner’s lunch bag.
- Keep a small stack of cards on hand so expressing gratitude becomes easy and spontaneous.
2. Express Gratitude Out Loud
Think about how many times you say “thank you” each day without really meaning it. This season, choose one of those moments and replace it with something deeper. Instead of a quick “thanks,” try: “Thank you for taking the time to help me today. I really appreciate your patience.”
- Give someone a call just to say thanks. It takes just a few minutes but is has a lasting impact.
- If you’re comfortable with technology, send a short, personalized video message to someone who has made a difference in your life.
3. Build gratitude into group settings.
Gratitude doesn’t have to be personal or private. When you bring it into a group — whether at work, with friends, or around the holiday table — you encourage others to slow down, notice the good, and join in. A small moment of appreciation can shift the energy of the whole room.
- Start a work meeting with a “gratitude huddle,” sharing bright spots from the week.
- Share messages of gratitude at the dinner table or family gathering.
- Create a simple “gratitude wall” using sticky notes where everyone can add something they’re thankful for during a meeting or event.
4. Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones
Time is one of the most meaningful gifts you can offer. Showing up — fully, without distraction — communicates appreciation at a deep level. When we give people our presence, we remind them they matter.
- Put your phone away and have a genuine, face-to-face conversation.
- Join your partner in a favorite hobby, even if it’s not your usual activity.
- Schedule a game night, a movie marathon, or a simple walk together.
5. Give Thoughtful, Small Gifts
Gifts don’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. Often, the smallest items create the biggest emotional impact. These gestures reflect thoughtfulness — and the knowledge of what might brighten someone’s day.
- Frame a photograph that holds a cherished memory.
- Give a journal to someone starting a new chapter.
- Bring lunch to a stressed coworker or deliver treats to first responders, teachers, nurses, or police officers who serve your community.
6. Offer Acts of Service
Sometimes actions speak louder than words. Acts of service show appreciation for your family member or friend by easing their load. These gestures create a ripple effect — one thoughtful act often inspires another.
- Take over a chore your partner dislikes or normally handles.
- Cook a meal for a loved one who is overwhelmed or recovering from illness.
- Offer to run errands, shovel snow, or watch someone’s children so they can have a break.
7. Do a Random Act of Kindness
Kindness to strangers has a special kind of magic. It creates a chain reaction, encouraging others to pay it forward. These small surprises help build a sense of community during a season when it’s needed most.
- Bake cookies for a neighbor.
- Pay for the person behind you in the drive-through or at a coffee shop.
- Leave an uplifting note where someone else will find it.
8. Donate to Charity or Volunteer
Recognizing your own blessings often leads naturally to wanting to help others. Even small contributions — your time, your attention, your resources — can make a significant impact on someone else’s life.
- Donate to organizations that provide food, shelter, clothing, or holiday support to families in need.
- Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, shelter, or nonprofit.
- Participate in holiday giving programs that provide gifts for children or seniors.
9. Leave Positive Reviews and Show Appreciation for Service Workers
Gratitude extends far beyond our inner circle. Service workers often deal with long hours, high stress, and limited acknowledgment. A few kind words can make a big difference on a hectic day.
- Leave a positive review for a business you appreciate and explain why you’re grateful.
- Offer a generous tip to a waiter or waitress during the busy holiday season.
- Thank store employees, delivery drivers, pharmacists, and postal workers for their service.
10. Make Gratitude a Daily Habit
The most meaningful gratitude practice is one you return to day-after-day. These habits help anchor your days with purpose and positivity.
- Start a morning gratitude ritual. Ask yourself, “What am I grateful for today?”
- Keep a gratitude journal. Jot down three things each day — big or small.
- Create a gratitude jar. Write down moments of kindness or appreciation on small slips of paper, then review them monthly or at year’s end.
As we celebrate this season of gratitude, we’re reminded of the many people who make our work meaningful. At California Casualty, we are truly thankful for you. Thank you for trusting us to protect what matters most.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
