Yoga for Children

by Sue Wiedermann

Yoga includes a range of postures, breathing and meditation which aim to support physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Children can benefit from yoga in just the same ways as adults, however the implementation of a yoga session for children will differ to those of adult classes. Yoga for young children needs to include an element of fun, play, adventure and story to help keep children engaged. Traditional yoga poses can be adapted and given new names to help maintain engagement and interest. For example Child’s Pose could become a wombat hiding in a log, Downward Facing Dog Pose could be a hill, as they are in the story Let’s Go Exploring. You can use traditional stories, songs and dances or make up some of your own. We don’t need to focus on perfection with poses, every attempt by a child is helping to develop their strength, co-ordination, motor planning, spatial awareness and their ability to maintain stillness.

When we slow down and deepen our breath we begin to engage the para-sympathetic nervous system which helps to keep us calm and relaxed. This in turn will help children self regulate so they can have more control over their emotions and actions. There are a range of yoga breathing exercises that can be adapted so they are more interesting and fun for children. For example Bunny Breath - Breathe in quickly through nose three times pretending to be a bunny sniffing a flower, then one long exhale through the mouth or Snake Breath - breathe in through nose then slowly breathe out making a long hissing sound.

The purpose of meditation is to develop a quiet mind. This can help children improve their attention and focus, as well as feel calm and in control. A singing bowl, music or a guided meditation can all be valuable meditation techniques for young children. Positive affirmations included in the yoga practice can help children develop positive self talk which can help to support their mental health.