Teaching yoga to kids can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to ensure their safety throughout the practice.

1. Prepare Mind and Body: Our classes begin with a tuning in to help children connect to how they are feeling so they are aware of their abilities and limitations. We begin and end the practice with warm-up and cool-down poses along with resting pose to allow time for integration and to transition back into their day.
2. Physical Limitations: Children have different physical abilities and limitations than adults, so it’s important to adjust the practice accordingly. Encourage children to listen to their bodies. Learn how to recognize when a child is at their edge both mentally and physically.
3. Proper Alignment: Teach children proper alignment in each pose to prevent injury and receive optimal benefit. We have 11 essential alignment actions to focus on with kids and teens.
4. Breathing: Teach children how to breathe properly for the various yoga poses and discourage holding their breath during the practice.
5. Modifications: Offer modifications and props to accommodate children’s abilities and limitations. Encourage children to use blocks, blankets, and straps to help them achieve proper alignment.
6. Supervision: Keep a close eye on children throughout the practice to ensure their safety.
7. Don’t close your eyes or demonstrate a pose that inhibits your ability to see the kids. Learn how to read the energy of the room and teach accordingly.
8. Mindfulness: Emphasize the importance of mindfulness and listening to their bodies throughout the practice. Encourage children to tune into their sensations, thoughts and emotions during the practice.