6 Tips For Teaching Kids Yoga Classes

Teaching yoga is fun and challenging no matter what age group you have in your class, but the challenges of teaching adults and teaching kids yoga classes are different. If you have never taught kids before, it's best to go into your first class armed with a little knowledge about what to expect. Here are 6 tips to help make that first class more fun and less chaotic.

1. Time.

Think about the length of your class. While adults are fine for an hour or so, kids might not last that long. It's up to you, and it will depend on how old the kids are and on how many of them you have. If you have just a few kids, you can usually go a bit longer, while bigger classes of younger kids might benefit from slightly shorter classes. If you aren't sure, start with 30 minutes for kids 0-7 years old, and 45 minutes for kids 8-12 years old.

2. Fun and games.

Games are a great way to start the class, to play during the class when you can tell the kids need another few minutes to jump around before they're ready to refocus, or to play for most of the class on some days. Put on some music and have them dance, and then stop the music and have the kids freeze in a yoga pose. Play musical mats, which is like musical chairs using the yoga mats. Split them into pairs, have one kid do a pose, and then have the other kid do what he/she thinks would be the opposite pose. Then have them switch back and forth. "Yogi Says" is a classic; it's like Simon Says, except the Yogi is in charge. These games give kids a chance to interact, get some energy out, and have fun.

3. Teach the poses, then link them into sequences.

Linking poses can help kids flow from one pose to the other without losing their focus. It also boosts concentration and balance. However, it is best to teach the poses in isolation first and then link them together so the kids have a good grasp of each pose. Talk about the animals associated with the poses, and give them plenty of rest time between poses as well.

4. Specific feedback.

This aspect of the class is similar to teaching adults. Vague "good job" feedback isn't the most helpful. Be specific so the kids know what they're doing well and so you don't fall into a pattern of too much vague praise that becomes disingenuous.

5. Poses don't have to be perfect.

While some adult classes are about getting the poses just right, you shouldn't have the same expectation when you teach kids. The main things you're doing are introducing them to yoga, getting them comfortable with a few poses, making sure they're comfortable and safe, and on top of it all, keeping it fun.

6. Just like yoga, it's a balance.

Teaching kids yoga is a balance of having a plan and not being too rigid. Of being in charge but not making the kids feel like they can't participate. Of letting them be creative and having them follow directions. Of leading a fun class without it turning into a free-for-all.

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