Yoga is becoming increasingly popular for adults and children alike. It is a great way to improve mental and physical health, increase flexibility and strength, and reduce stress and anxiety. Teaching children yoga can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are ten commandments to help you teach yoga to kids successfully:
1. Thou Shalt Establish Rules
It is vital to set up rules for any children’s yoga class to ensure that everyone feels safe, respected, and comfortable. It is also essential to establish these rules in an age-appropriate manner. Some examples of practices to establish are no running or horseplay, using kind words, and always being respectful of the instructor and other students. Be sure to explain why each rule is important and that everyone is responsible for following the rules.
2. Thou Shalt Keep It Simple
Children have shorter attention spans than adults, so keep your instructions and poses simple and easy to follow. Use clear and concise language when teaching, and avoid using too many technical terms.
3. Thou Shalt Be Patient
Children may not always follow your instructions perfectly, but that is okay. Be patient and encourage them to do their best. Remember that yoga is not about perfection but about progress.
4. Thou Shalt Create a Safe Environment
Safety should always be a priority when teaching kids yoga. Ensure the space is free from any hazards and that the children are properly supervised. Encourage children to listen to their bodies and never push themselves too hard.
5. Thou Shalt Nurture a Non-Competitive Environment
Yoga is not about competition or trying to do the most challenging pose. It is about connecting with your body and exploring what it can do. Create a safe and non-competitive environment in your class by emphasizing that everyone is different and can do different things. Encourage kids to focus on their own practice and progress rather than competing with others.
6. Thou Shalt Use Props
Props such as blocks, blankets, and bolsters can be helpful when teaching yoga to kids. They can make poses more accessible and comfortable and can also add an element of fun to the practice.
7. Thou Shalt Be Creative
Creativity is key when teaching yoga to kids. Use your imagination to create new and exciting poses, games, and activities. Encourage children to use their creativity as well.
8. Thou Shalt Be Inclusive
Yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background. Make sure your classes are inclusive and welcoming to all children. Offer modifications and variations for different levels of ability.
9. Thou Shalt Be Mindful
Mindfulness is an important aspect of yoga. Encourage children to be present in the moment, to focus on their breath, and to be aware of their thoughts and feelings. Teach them how to use yoga as a tool for stress relief and relaxation.
10. Thou Shalt Have Fun
Children’s yoga should be an enjoyable experience! Incorporating fun activities, games, and stories can help to keep the kids engaged and interested in the practice. Making yoga poses into stories or games can be a great way to get them excited about the practice. For example, if you are teaching downward-facing dog, you could ask the kids to imagine they are puppies exploring a new field.
Conclusion
Teaching children yoga can be a fantastic way to introduce them to the benefits of yoga and mindfulness. Following these ten commandments, you can create a safe, fun, and inclusive environment that encourages children to explore their bodies and minds. So, grab your yoga mats and get ready to have fun with your little yogis!
Yogamoo offers Yoga classes for beginners and pregnant women in the Reigate and Redhill areas. They provide resources such as books and CDs to help those interested in learning more about yoga. Learn about our courses for children’s yoga today!
Leave A Comment