Yoga is already a popular way for adults to unwind and move their bodies, but what about kids yoga? Statistics released by the American National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) showed that in 2017, 8.4% of American kids between the ages of 4 – 17 years old used yoga. It might not sound like a big percentage but it equates to 4.9 million kids! The NCHS data shows that this is a 5.3% increase from 2012.
Given the benefits that yoga has for kids, these are all positive numbers. Beyond helping you find some quiet time in the house, here are the benefits of introducing kids to yoga.
Improving Balance, Coordination and Flexibility
The fun sequences of kids yoga encourages them to move their bodies with a whole new approach. The variety of poses are performed lying down, sitting and standing which challenges all their muscles in balance, coordination and flexibility.
Developing Focus and Concentration
Just like your own yoga practice, kids yoga encourages a clear mind and dedicated focus. As they try perform each pose and keep up with the class, kids learn to be fully in the present moment. This comes with a host of good lessons: mindfulness, following instructions, focus and concentration. If your kids practice frequently you’ll notice a positive effect in these areas at school too. Some studies even suggest kids yoga helps them achieve better grades!
Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence
Kids yoga is a space where children can find self-esteem and build self-confidence. Completing a class, mastering a pose and building a sense of wonder in learning can all give a sense of accomplishment. If they’re joining a real-life class perhaps they might even gain some new some friendships. All these boosts a child’s sense of self, sense of belonging and their ability to feel confident as they grow up.
Strengthening the Mind-Body Connection
The physical challenges of kids yoga engage various muscle groups in all sorts of ways. This helps kids become aware of their body and how it functions. At the same time the need to be present in the class requires kids to clear and quieten their minds. There is opportunity here for them to find inner peace in a busy world and listen to their bodies.
Want to start introducing your brood to kids yoga? Here are some free YouTube classes from accounts we love.
Cosmic Kids with Yoga Adventures and a Zen Den
One of the most established YouTube channels of kids yoga is Cosmic Kids. While their bright and cheerful classes are a parent’s go-to, there’s also a series of ‘Zen Den’ videos. You can use them to introduce children to positive affirmations, breathing techniques and more.
Smile and Learn – Available in Various Languages
This wonderful educational channel has everything from music and maths to movement. Better yet, they have channels in various languages! It’s a treasure chest of fun learning for bilingual kids.
Do it Together Thanks to Yoga with Adriene
Love doing Yoga with Adriene videos? Turns out she has a bunch of videos of kids yoga that are easy for you to do together!
