Summer Behaviour

Why Behaviour in the Summer Term Can Feel Wild!
...and what to do about it.

This blog is for you, fellow kids yoga teachers and well-being specialists, to help you feel more prepared and supported during what can be a particularly tricky time of year: the summer term.

Because let’s be honest… when the weather heats up, so can kid's behaviour!

Why Summer Term Behaviour Shifts
You might’ve noticed a shift in your classes: kids who are usually calm become boisterous, focus wavers, and big feelings seem to bubble up everywhere. You're not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone.

Here’s why summer term can be such a roller-coaster:

🌞 1. The Weather
Hotter days = shorter tempers. Children may be sleeping less, getting hot and bothered, and finding their tolerance for others decreasing. And it’s the same for us, right? No one feels their best when they’re sweaty, tired, and overstimulated.

📝 2. Assessments
In UK schools, summer term means SATs, end-of-year tests and lots of academic pressure.

• Before the assessments: anxiety, changes to routines, and increased pressure can unsettle children.
• During the assessments: altered timetables, unfamiliar settings, and big feelings can disrupt the day-to-day rhythm.
• After the assessments: a sense of release or even wild excitement can make children feel… a little lawless.
  
  
  

🔄 3. Transitions and Change
There’s also the emotional weight of change—new classes, new teachers, maybe even new schools. Even positive change can be dys-regulating for children. They're excited about what's ahead, but also uncertain.

It’s a perfect storm of disrupted routines, big emotions, and overheated little bodies.

What Can You Do as a Kids Yoga Teacher?
You can’t control the weather or the school schedule, but you can create a calm, safe, consistent space in your classes. Here are a few practical ideas to help:

❄️ Keep It Cool

• Open windows or doors if you can.
• Bring in a jug of water or squash and cups—just check for allergies and permissions.
• Try using a hand fan (or a big book!) during relaxation to help children cool down—it feels magical.
• Consider starting your session with a short relaxation or mindful moment if they arrive frazzled.
  
  
  

💬 Hold Space for Feelings

• Let your class be a place where children can express what’s going on for them.
• Even a few minutes for them to chat with a partner or name an emotion can make a difference.
• Encourage them to share what they’d find helpful in class—games, props, poses.
  
  
  

🔁 Be Consistent
This is one of the biggest things you can do: stay consistent with your expectations and routines. When everything else around them is changing, you can be the steady presence they can rely on.
If you do decide to mix things up—maybe taking your session outdoors or trying a new game—keep a few familiar elements the same. Consistency builds safety.

If You’re Finding It Tough… That’s Normal
Summer term behaviour can feel wild. If you’re struggling, please know that you’re not doing anything wrong. It’s the nature of the season. And you don’t have to navigate it alone.

🧠 If you'd like more support, check out my training: Tame the Crowd Without Being Loud. It's packed with:

• Neuroscience and psychology-based insights
• Practical, respectful and positive behaviour strategies for all class types
• Lifetime access and growing content—including a whole module answering your specific questions

Right now it’s just £35 until 1st June—then the price goes up (to £47) to reflect all the new resources I’ve added.
👉 Grab your training here

And if you're not already in my Facebook group for kids yoga and children's well-being practitioners, pop in—it's a space for support, encouragement, and lots of great ideas.

Thanks for reading, and for everything you do for the children you support. You’re not just teaching yoga—you’re offering a steady anchor in stormy weather. That’s powerful.

x
Julia