Why Summer Breaks Are Good… But Routine Still Matters

There’s something quite magical about the summer holidays. When I think back to my own childhood, I can still remember that wonderful feeling on the last day of school, knowing six whole weeks of summer stretched out ahead of me.

I spent hours playing in the garden with my brothers, making up games and adventures, and some of my happiest memories are of family holidays to Ireland. My dad is from a very rural area in Ireland, so our holidays were spent playing in fields, helping to milk cows and, if we were lucky, riding on a tractor! It was a far cry from our life at home! Looking back now, I realise those summers gave me something really valuable. Time to play, explore, move, imagine and simply enjoy being a child.

I think children still need that today.

After a busy school year of homework, clubs, packed lunches and early mornings, children deserve the chance to slow down. Summer is for family time, holidays, lazy mornings, making memories and simply being children.

As a dance teacher, I absolutely believe that children need that break.

But over the years, I’ve also noticed something else…

The children who seem to come back into September feeling happiest and most settled are often the ones who’ve kept a little bit of routine during the summer.

I'm not talking about filling every day with activities or sticking to a strict timetable. In fact, quite the opposite! Children benefit from having time to switch off.

It's simply about keeping a little movement, creativity and connection in their lives.

Confidence doesn't take six weeks off

One of the things I love most about teaching children is watching their confidence grow.

Sometimes it's obvious – performing on stage for the first time or mastering a new step.

More often, though, it happens quietly.

It's the child who suddenly walks into class without needing Mum or Dad.

The one who starts answering questions when they were once too shy.

The child who begins encouraging others or volunteers to stand at the front.

Confidence grows little by little, week after week.

A long summer break certainly won't undo that progress, but having opportunities to keep moving, creating and spending time with other children can help maintain that positive momentum.

Movement is about so much more than exercise

Children naturally love to move.

Whether they're dancing around the living room, climbing in the park or creating games with friends, movement helps children express themselves, build coordination and burn off energy.

Dance adds something a little extra. It combines movement with music, imagination, creativity, teamwork and plenty of laughter. Those experiences don't have to stop completely just because school has finished.

Every family's summer looks different

Some families are away for weeks.

Some are juggling work and childcare.

Others are enjoying quieter days at home.

There isn't a "right" way to spend the summer holidays.

If your child spends every day outside building dens and riding their bike, that's wonderful.

If they enjoy trying a holiday club or learning something new, that's wonderful too.

The important thing isn't keeping them busy every minute - it's making sure they still have opportunities to move, create, socialise and have fun.

Looking ahead to September

September brings lots of excitement, but it can also bring big changes.

New classes.

New teachers.

Perhaps even a brand-new school.

I've found that children often settle back into routines more easily when they've stayed connected with activities they enjoy over the summer, even if it's only for a few days. Our children's Summer School in Beaconsfield is designed to do exactly that. It's a chance for children to dance, sing, make friends, build confidence and enjoy themselves in a relaxed, fun environment before the new school year begins. There are no exams, no pressure - just a week full of creativity, laughter and making wonderful memories.

Whether your child already dances with us or you're looking for children's dance classes in Beaconsfield, I hope you enjoy a wonderful summer together and make memories that last a lifetime.

Have a fantastic summer!

If you're still looking for summer holiday activities for children in Beaconsfield, we'd love to welcome your child to our Summer School next week. It's a relaxed week of dancing, games, crafts, creativity and making new friends.

👉 You can find out more and book your place HERE.

Children enjoying Dance Dynamic Summer School in Beaconsfield, taking part in fun dance activities during the summer holidays.