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for a Safer and More Inclusive Environment Today I wanted to share something that’s really close to my heart: assumptions. One of my core values — both personally and within Well-Being Adventurers — is safety. We aim to create safe, welcoming spaces where every child feels seen, accepted, and valued. But assumptions, even when unintentional, can undermine that safety. So, I want to gently explore the kinds of assumptions that can crop up in our classes — and offer kinder, more inclusive alternatives. Gender Assumptions
Let’s start here, because this one really matters to me. In my own family, I have people whose gender identity is different to the gender they were assigned at birth. I’ve seen first-hand how painful and unsafe assumptions can feel. The truth is: you can’t know someone’s gender unless they tell you. Gender expression (how someone looks or dresses) doesn’t equal gender identity. So, in my teaching, I always try to use gender-neutral language. It’s fairer, safer, and more respectful. Instead of:
Assumptions About Family Structure Not all children live with a mum and dad. Some may have two mums, two dads, one parent, foster carers, grandparents, siblings, or even live in group homes or adoptive families. And not all children feel loved, supported, or safe at home — sadly, that’s the reality for some. So, I avoid phrases like:
Cultural & Religious Assumptions This is one I often see in schools — assuming that all children celebrate the same festivals or hold the same beliefs. I’m not religious myself, and my classes include children from many backgrounds. So, I avoid theming sessions around specific holidays like Easter or Christmas, unless I know it’s relevant and appropriate. Of course, you can explore these themes, but do it mindfully. Also, remember: some children may not be able to join in with certain activities due to their cultural or religious beliefs — so be open to that. And if you ever need it, I’ve created a helpful Yoga & Religion letter in my Document Bundle to support conversations with families or schools where there are concerns. Language, Communication & Learning Styles Please don’t assume a child understands you — or that if they don’t respond, they’re being “naughty”. They might:
I try to ensure that in my classes I use:
Physical & Neurological Assumptions Not all children can sit still, follow multi-step instructions, or hold balance poses — and that’s okay. Some children need to move to concentrate. Fidgeting isn’t misbehaving — it might be their way of staying focused. That’s why I include props in my classes — to give children something to hold, squeeze, or engage with during stillness or storytelling. And don’t be fooled by stillness, either. A child sitting perfectly still might be daydreaming, zoning out, or dissociating — it’s not always a sign of attention. You may wish to build flexibility into your classes:
Economic Assumptions When teaching in schools, especially where sessions are free to families, be mindful of economic differences. Not every child has been on a holiday, has toys at home, or access to extras. I avoid saying things like:
🌟 Final Thoughts We all make assumptions. It’s part of being human. But as kids’ yoga teachers, we have a beautiful opportunity to unlearn some of those automatic habits — and replace them with curiosity, compassion, and inclusive language. Let’s aim to make every child feel truly seen and safe in our classes — no matter their gender, family, culture, ability, or background. Julia
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Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s What I’m Doing (and Maybe You Can Too!) Today I want to talk honestly today about something that I think we all experience at times: overwhelm.
And truthfully, I’m not just writing this for you… I’m writing it for me too. When the Juggle Feels More Like a Struggle Right now, life feels full. My youngest is in their final term of primary school (which means leavers’ events, transition bits, and paperwork galore), while my eldest is deep into their Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions. Work is extra busy with summer term events—sports days, one-off school workshops, and my regular classes. And of course, the family stuff keeps ticking on: my husband working away, daily logistics, and trying to remember who needs what and when. So, yes, I’ve been feeling it. That creeping sense of, “I can’t do it all.” And if you’re feeling it too—balancing your teaching, business, and family life—please know you’re not alone. Here are some things I’m putting into place (or at least trying! 🙃) right now to gently support myself. I hope they help you too. My Body Comes First When I’m feeling overwhelmed, my nervous system needs care before I can do anything else. So I’m starting with my body:
Loosening the Reins (On Purpose) This one feels big: I’m giving myself permission to lower the bar. Not forever (hopefully!) Just for now.
A Reminder for You (and Me) We don’t have to be superhuman to make a difference in children’s lives. We just need to keep coming back to ourselves—with compassion, not pressure. Our presence—regulated, rested, nourished—is the most powerful gift we have to share so let’s nurture it. Be gentle with yourself. You’re doing beautifully—even when it feels messy. With love, Julia x A Heartfelt Note to Kids Yoga Teachers Hi lovely yoga teacher, this post is a little different.
Today, I’m not sharing a teaching tip or a workshop idea. I’m sharing something more personal. Something a bit vulnerable. A recent wobble in my business. You might be wondering, “Why is Julia – someone who supports other people’s businesses – talking about her own business wobble?” Well, one of my core values is honesty. I never want to present a version of myself that isn’t true. And in this world of shiny social media squares, it’s so easy to look like we’ve got it all together – like we’re the expert, the one who always knows what they’re doing. But the truth is, we all have wobbles. And I think it’s important to normalise them. The Wobble So, what happened? Most of my work is in schools, usually during curriculum time – PE lessons, Sports Week, Mental Health Week, all those special bits of the timetable. It’s what I love, and it’s where I feel most aligned thanks to my background as a teacher and school leader. A lot of the schools I work with use the Primary PE and Sport Premium funding to pay for my sessions. But this year, that funding wasn’t announced until mid-June. Normally it’s released much earlier – a few years ago it was announced in March, along with confirmation it would continue for three years. So this delay brought a lot of uncertainty. As the weeks ticked by and the announcement still didn’t come, the anxiety started to creep in. Thoughts like:
The Spiral It was a bit of a spiral, if I’m honest. I felt afraid and uncertain. I looked at my finances and panicked. I felt like I’d let myself – and my family – down. I even caught myself thinking things like: “Why don’t I just get a normal job?” “If I had a normal job, I wouldn’t be so reliant on funding.” “Why did I think this would work?” I was having a proper wobble. The Realisation And yet… as I looked through the job listings, I realised something important. I could do many of these jobs on paper – I’ve got over 20 years’ experience in education, I hold a Master’s in Mental Health and Well-Being in Education, and I’m knowledgeable and capable. But my heart wasn’t in any of them. Why? Because I only want to teach what I truly believe in. And that’s well-being. That’s yoga. That’s breathing, movement, emotional literacy, regulation. The things that actually make a difference to children’s lives. And I created my business to work around my family’s needs. We’re a neurodivergent household – though I didn’t know that when I first started out! Now I do, and it makes complete sense. After-school clubs, late finishes… they don’t work for us. My business has allowed me to be present – to be there when my children get home from school. To have the flexibility that supports both them and me. I realised that going back to a traditional job – at least for now – isn’t right for our family. And honestly? It’s not right for me either. So What Now? Well… good news! The Sports Premium funding was announced – just after my wobble reached its peak. So, I’ve got another year to continue this work that I love. And this experience has taught me something valuable: I need to make my business more sustainable. Less dependent on one pot of funding. More diversified. More stable – not just financially, but emotionally too. I’m now exploring ways to strengthen my offerings, bring back some of the classes and workshops I paused, and create more long-term plans. Why Am I Sharing This? Not so you’ll think I’m unorganised or unprofessional. Quite the opposite. I’m sharing it because this is real. These feelings – fear, uncertainty, doubt – they’re part of running a business. Especially one that’s purpose-led, heart-led, and often held up by just one or two people doing all the things. If you’ve ever had a wobble – about funding, about bookings, about your confidence, your teaching, or just your ability to keep going – you’re not alone. It’s all very human. You’re Not Alone If you’ve had a wobble recently – or you’re in one right now – I see you. I am you. Please don’t sit with it on your own. Come and join my free group for yoga teachers working in schools – it's called School Yoga Teachers. It’s a friendly, supportive space where we share ideas, encouragement, and the occasional wobble too. Or if you'd rather speak privately, you’re very welcome to email me. I might be able to suggest some free resources, make you a little video, or offer more direct support if that’s something you’d find helpful. I don’t have all the answers. I wish I did. But I do have experience. And I know how important it is to have people around you who get it. This was a big, honest share. If it helped you in any way, I’d love to know. And if it made you feel seen or less alone – then it was worth every word. With warmth and solidarity, Julia x No idea who I am? I’m Julia Hankins, Children’s Well-Being Consultant and founder of Well-Being Adventurers. I spend most of my time in schools, delivering workshops and training sessions, and also mentoring other children’s yoga teachers to support them in doing the same. Reach out and get in touch- I love hearing from other kids yoga teachers [email protected] |
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