Do you teach children’s yoga? Here are some tips to consider while you teach.

Teaching Considerations

• Keep an open mind and be flexible. Lesson plans are terrific for staying focused but sometimes they don’t go as planned. Let go of expectations and spend time reflecting after your class to see what went well and what could shift.

• Listen to the children.  Some of the best games and breath we have learned has been through them!  They know what is fun and what feels good, so allow them to teach you too.

• Know what you need.  If you are feeling sore because you just climbed a 14er the day before, then take it easy.  Don’t teach a pose that you don’t feel comfortable doing yourself. You get to create a class that makes sense for the kids and yourself.  Take care of YOU.

• Have fun!  Kids yoga should be a good time for everyone!

• Create a theme that speaks to your audience. Each teacher will have a different purpose or intention for her or his class. This is beautiful, because everyone has a different inspiration for why they want to bring the gift of yoga to children. Julie’s is to give them tools for self empowerment and stress relief, because she had anxiety as a child. If you have something that speaks to you, speak your truth and share.

• Make sure all the kids feel included and never feel left out.  If someone is mean or you notice someone having unpleasant words or actions, then remind them about peaceful thoughts, words and actions and perhaps visit your agreements for class.

• The children are the most important part of class. Be mindful of educating the Whole Child— All students are in an environment that is physically and emotionally safe. You are there to hold space and provide an environment where your students can feel comfortable to be their authentic selves.

• Treat each student with kindness and respect.

• Have a practice of your own so you can authentically teach these tools.

• Know your audience. You will want to teach preschoolers different than 5th graders– Be mindful of your delivery to each age group. If you have a group who have experienced trauma or who have special needs, a specific training may be needed in order to effectively serve this population.