The Unteachables Podcast

#152: So it's December, and your students won't stop talking... Now what?

Dec 8, 2025
Tackling the excitement that erupts in classrooms as the holidays approach is no small feat. Discover the brain science behind why student energy spikes in December and how to channel that into fun, structured activities. The host shares effective classroom games that maintain focus while allowing for bursts of energy. With clear routines and mindfulness practices, teachers can create a calm environment, ensuring students stay engaged even when they're bouncing off the walls. Normalize the chaos and keep your space predictable!
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INSIGHT

Anticipation Fuels Holiday Hyperactivity

  • End-of-year excitement raises student energy because anticipation itself spikes happy hormones.
  • This biological anticipation often makes high arousal normal rather than purposeful misbehavior.
INSIGHT

Consistency Protects Regulation

  • Slipping expectations and inconsistent routines at the end of term increase dysregulation.
  • Students who rely on predictability will become more off-task when routines change.
INSIGHT

Social Drives Increase Chattiness

  • A drive to connect and strengthen social bonds increases chatter as the year ends.
  • Students prioritize belonging, which can look like off-task social behaviour in class.
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