Yoga has long been recognized as a beneficial practice for adults, offering a range of physical and mental health benefits. However, did you know that kids can also benefit from yoga? In fact, kids yoga can be a fun and engaging way to support child development in a number of areas.
Physical Benefits of Kids Yoga for Child Development
One of the primary benefits of kids yoga is its positive impact on physical development. Through yoga poses and movements, children can improve their flexibility, balance, and coordination. This can be especially beneficial for children who are less physically active or who have physical challenges. Yoga can also help children develop strength and endurance, which can support overall physical health and well-being.
In addition to physical benefits, kids yoga can also have a positive impact on children’s mental and emotional development. Yoga practices such as breathing techniques and mindfulness can help children learn to manage their emotions and reduce stress and anxiety (Biegel, 2009). Yoga can also help children develop focus and concentration, which can be beneficial in the classroom and in other activities (Posner, 2010).
Cognitive Benefits of Kids Yoga for Child Development
Kids yoga can also support social and cognitive development. Through group yoga classes, children can learn to work together and take turns, as well as practice communication and problem-solving skills (Kleppinger et al., 2014). In addition, the imaginative play and storytelling often incorporated into kids yoga can help children develop creativity and language skills (Posner, 2010).
Kids Yoga: Getting on the Mat
But how can you incorporate kids yoga into your child’s routine? There are a few options to consider:
- Enroll your child in a kids yoga class: Many yoga studios and community centers offer kids yoga classes, which can be a great way for your child to learn yoga poses and techniques in a structured and supportive environment.
- Practice yoga at home: There are many kids yoga videos and resources available online, which can be a convenient and budget-friendly option for practicing at home. Simply search for “kids yoga” on YouTube or check out some of the many kids yoga books and DVDs on the market.
- Incorporate yoga into daily activities: You don’t have to set aside specific time for kids yoga – you can also incorporate yoga poses and movements into your child’s daily activities. For example, you can do some stretches while waiting in line at the grocery store or try some balance poses during a park outing.
- Get certified to teach kids yoga and tell them about the 95 hour certification more info here
In conclusion, kids yoga can be a fun and beneficial way to support child development in a number of areas, including physical, mental, emotional, social, and cognitive development. Whether you enroll your child in a class or practice at home, there are many options for incorporating yoga into your child’s routine.
Join Christine McArdle
And help children learn healthy tools for life
Learn how to teach children’s yoga classes in public schools, private institutions, local community centers and online!
Kleppinger, E., Beauregard, E., & Beauregard, K. (2014). Yoga for children: A systematic review of the literature. Pediatrics, 134(4), e1075-e1083.
Posner, J. (2010). Yoga for children: A handbook for parents and teachers. Boston, MA: Shambhala Publications.