How to Teach Yoga to Children
Updated: Oct 9, 2020
I wish so badly that I would have began practicing yoga at an earlier age in my life! When I think back to my childhood, the only physical activities that were offered were typical sports like basketball, dance, soccer, baseball, and hockey. All of which focused on excelling competitively and ‘being a team player’. Don’t get me wrong- I love team sports and am definitely competitive; but, I can’t help but wonder how I would have navigated through adolescence had I learned about mindfulness and just how powerful my own thoughts are.
You can read all about why I think children need yoga and mindfulness here, but to keep it short and sweet- I genuinely believe yoga can provide the tools and awareness needed to live a balanced and fulfilled life. Isn’t that what we all want? If children feel balanced and fulfilled (as much as they can), then perhaps the rate of childhood depression and anxiety would be significantly lower than it currently is during this era of technology and constant stimulation.
My passion is helping children and youth to be the best version of themselves, and I’m going to officially declare that yoga and mindfulness will expedite that process.
You might be thinking, “OK, this sounds a little interesting. But how the heck am I going to get my 3 year old into downward dog? They have a hard time following instructions as it is!”. Teaching yoga to children is easy. I mean it! Kids are naturally curious and as long as you’re having fun, they will too.
