Yoga for Kids
Because kids get stressed out too!
Today, young children are under a variety of stresses that adults can hardly imagine. They deal with daily anxieties over competition with their peers, bullying, peer pressure, demanding homework and class assignments, after-school activities and chaotic timetables. Adults choose yoga to relax and control the stresses in their lives, so why can't kids?
Specialized yoga classes – just for kids - can be beneficial in the following ways:
- To encourage an interest in lifetime health and a stress-free life.
- To build flexible and strong bodies.
- To boost the imagination and creativity.
- For improved concentration and attention span.
- To promote self-esteem.
- As a way to set and achieve goals.
Kid's yoga is typically available to a range of age groups. Children can start practicing as early as 18-months, along with their parents. Classes are designed to meet the needs of specific age groups and the maximum age limit for kid's yoga is typically about 15-years-old.
Youth yoga classes are normally designed to be simple, playful and fun. Kids learn to perform poses, combine movements, how to stretch, and safe bending and resting techniques. Kid's yoga also teaches the importance of balance, concentration and coordination. Unlike regular yoga, the typical kid's yoga class is full of active youngsters, so classes are boisterous rather than quiet and calm. Accompanying sounds - such as imitation cat, dog, child or lion noises – add to the fun and identification process of the poses.
If you're a yogi and plan to spend some time with your child, practicing with them at home is a great way to communicate and teach skills such as communication and respect for others. Meanwhile, children will feel safe and gain confidence with a parent's help. In addition, doing easy yoga poses can help kids tune into their inner selves and encourages an intimate relationship with the natural environment that surrounds them
Parents sometimes get very over-excited about getting their kids involved in their favorite sport, however it's not wise to force a child to practice yoga, or any sport for that matter. Yoga is a valuable lifetime exercise. Keep it fun and cheerful so that your kids will see its value in their lives.
