Nine Essential Facts About Yoga For Children You Should Know
Here are some guidelines and realistic expectations for parents who are considering Yoga for their children. For your child, Yoga is much more than a kid’s fitness class. Just like us, children have stressful issues to cope with, and this might be just what they need.
Like beginning skiers start with the snow plow, young kids should start with easy postures - and you should be patient when monitoring their progress. A child is naturally more flexible than an adult, but not always aware of what he/she can do and cannot do yet.
What motivates your child and does he/she have the passion for Yoga? In the grand scheme of things, it would be much more satisfying if your child, instead of you, makes the decision to attend classes. But we are not saying that guidance must not be provided. But a gentle nudge must not be confused with a not-too-gentle push into Yoga class, because you wouldn’t want to force your child into something they don’t enjoy. All children are different, and what is good for one of your children, may not agree with another.
Encourage your child to see the deeper benefits of Yoga. Yoga practice encourages living for today (not in the past, or for the future), appreciating what you have and counting your blessings. Enhanced concentration skills are another benefit that will result in improved academic performance.
Look for a qualified Yoga instructor who has experience in teaching children. Also be sure that said Yoga instructor is qualified in what he/she will be teaching.
Watch your child practice with his or her Yoga teacher and make sure you are comfortable with the environment, policies, and safety guidelines. Rules and discipline policies are usually in place so that each child can learn Yoga and get the most out of their experience.
For your child’s safety at home, parents who are not familiar with Yoga should not let their “beginner Yoga children” practice anything beyond beginner techniques without a competent Yoga instructor’s approval. If your child’s Yoga instructor believes home practice is hunky-dory, then you’re all set. Come to think of it, this quick safety tip may be for you as well, as you can, and should be encouraged through this to practice Yoga for yourself, with your children, and to guarantee you of a healthier life ahead.
Size does matter in Yoga classes - smaller is better. Focus is more centralized in smaller classes, thus guaranteeing that the Yoga teacher can give each student the attention he/she needs during practice.
Price should not be the top factor in choosing your child’s Yoga teacher. Is it worth skimping, for instance, on a family doctor, car or wardrobe? Very often, “you get what you pay for.”