that their child’s yoga practice mirror their own. “We have to meet children where they are.” Adults think that yoga has to look a certain way, but sometimes children don’t necessarily want to do the postures we’re familiar with. The best teaching reaches each individual child in a way that resonates with them because yoga is a lifestyle, not an exercise regimen,” she says. Yoga novices and parents that prefer specific guidance can take advantage of local studio classes for children and families or use DVDs, online streaming services and instruction books. Kevin Day, age 5, regularly starts his days with a Boat pose. “I like it because you can do it with a friend,” he says. Lisa Flynn, the Dover, New Hampshire, founder and chief executive officer of ChildLight Yoga and Yoga 4 Classrooms, is optimistic about the future. “In 10 years, I envision social and emotional learning, yoga, and mindfulness integrated at every school and mandated by educational policy,” she says. In addition to improved physical, social, emotional and cognitive health and wellness of the students, teachers and parents, she foresees “a positive shift in the overall school climate.” Julianne Hale is a freelance writer and Natural Awakenings franchise magazine editor in Cleveland, TN.
Yoga Media for Kids
Y
oga CDs, DVDs and videos are convenient and affordable tools for teachers, parents, counselors, yoga instructors, child life specialists and even daycares. Facilitating adults should first listen to the CD or watch the video and become familiar with the content. The media resources can be played to guide a child-focused session, or the facilitator can draw from the information to create a session more suitable to their audience and time allowance. It is a good idea to explore multiple resources. Videos help demonstrate proper posture and alignment, however, audios guide in a way that allows children to tune into their own bodies and inner feelings.
Calming Young Minds, by Sherri SnyderRoche; A unique compilation of relaxation, meditation, guided imagery, blissful music, creativity, and yoga for children. Order at CalmingYoungMinds.com. See ad on this page.
CD For KIDS! playful relaxing
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