Yoga is a great activity. Unlike other exercises, it calms the body and the mind and even a few seconds of it can bring a rambunctious child to focus. At school, we often take several deep breaths, while raising and lowering our arms, to gently get the children’s attention before circle time.
Yoga promotes flexibility, strengthens muscles, and improves posture. It can be done as a family activity as well. The deep breathing also improves moods and immune health, while teaching kids mindfulness and emotional control. It’s also safe! The children stay in one spot, and as long as the area is clear, there is little risk for injury.
Don’t worry about perfection. Unless you’re doing extremely advanced poses, the risk of injury is minimal. Use it as a time to rest, calm down, and bond with your child.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Calming yoga cards for emotional control
Garden yoga- A spring-themed set of simple poses
Practice shapes with your body!
ABC yoga cards- this is a version you can purchase and print out. Each letter is a different pose, and makes for another great way to use big-body muscles while practicing letters. If you don’t feel like buying them, get creative and try making up your own as a family activity.
https://shop.pinkoatmeal.com/product/alphabet-kids-yoga-cards-printables/
Cosmic Kids – 10-minute routines in various fun themes.
Their little bodies are filled with big emotions. Yoga is a great way to handle them. It’s a fantastic way to bond, and a safe way to get some exercise both in-doors and outside.
Have fun! Stay Healthy!
Ms. Ashley and Ms. Bri