 Create poses that focus on something your child is excited about. If they like letters you can make your body into letter shapes, if they like animals structure the yoga around animal breaths and movements…etc. It doesn’t matter if it is a traditional yoga pose or not the purpose of yoga for many children is to focus on breathing, moving their body, and calming their mind. Here are some ideas to use at home with your child: Start by focusing on breathing. Place hands on belly while seated or a small stuffed animal on belly while lying down take 5 deep breaths and watch as your stomach goes in and out slowly while you breath. Next start to move your body, this can include traditional yoga poses, dancing with music, animal walks, or a creation of your own. Depending on the energy level of your child yoga can either be used to increase energy through movement exercises or used to help calm your child through more relaxation poses. Finish the class with a little rest-this is usually the hardest part of yoga for adults and children so allow your child to move on their mat as they need but have them stay lying down and quiet for a few minutes/seconds depending on your child. This is a nice time to provide your child with a little foot or hand massage too to help them relax. Check out these yoga resources for additional ideas: https://www.kidsyogastories.com https://www.cosmickids.com Written By: Caitlin Kraft, OTD  |
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