What Can Parents Expect From Kids Yoga?

Kids Yoga classes are a great way to get children active, teach them lifelong habits, and give them improved body awareness. The benefits of kids Yoga classes include increased flexibility and strength, improved focus and concentration, and an ability to cope with stress and anxiety. While children aren't necessarily aware of each of these benefits, the most important things they do know is that it's fun and it feels good. Parents, on the other hand, want to know precisely what they can expect when they enroll their kids in a Yoga class. Parents should always feel free to talk with the Yoga teacher about any concerns or questions. If parents have never attended a Yoga class, or are unsure whether their child will enjoy the class, they should ask the instructor if they can sit in on a class or two. Yoga teachers should put parents at ease by giving them an overview of the class, and by inviting them to watch or join in if they would like. Kids Yoga sessions are structured a bit differently than adult classes. Parents should find a welcoming environment with music, mats, pose illustrations, and possibly props. The Yoga instructor should be friendly and engaging - putting kids at ease. The pace of the class will vary. It should begin with an engaging activity to warm up the body, then progress to a game or other high-energy activity, then wind down with more soothing, meditative instruction. The children should be interacting with each other, the instructor, and the poses, throughout the entire class, as opposed to sitting back watching someone else do a Yoga pose, then mimicking it. Results of a Yoga class will ultimately vary from child to child. Parents should not expect a complete transformation of their child. Overall, they can expect their child to learn a few techniques for taking a break from the day by breathing, stretching, or sitting quietly. Kids will learn that their bodies are strong and flexible. They will learn that breathing is an important part of life that too many people ignore. Children will also learn how to breathe deeply, and when to apply breathing exercises throughout the day, to help re-focus or release anxiety. They will learn some Yoga poses to stretch and strengthen their bodies. Perhaps, most importantly, children will learn how good they can feel by simply stretching, breathing, relaxing, and focusing their minds