Children's yoga classes

 Here are some of my top tips for great kids yoga classes:

• Use a story to sequence the yoga poses. It’s a great way to get the kids engaged and hold their attention throughout the session.
• Make the relaxation stage of the class as snuggly and cosy as possible to build a positive association with being calm and peaceful – something kids can often resist!
• Make sure there is a variety of pace in the class. Action in the story will makes the kids move faster and there can be more sedate moments where everyone slows right down. Switching the energy is another way to keep it interesting for the kids as well as making sure they get a good workout.
• Don’t be disheartened if your child doesn’t join in during the first few sessions. Many kids like to watch and see how it works first before they get involved. More often than not, the kids that watch intently will then go home and talk non-stop about it or even start teaching everybody else what they’ve seen!
• It’s great having a range of ages in the group. The little ones love to see and copy the older children’s practice and this really helps improve their coordination.
• Kids love the sense of independence they get from their yoga. So as a parent, if they will let you, try to step back and leave them to it. It’s a great way to build their confidence – especially in a group situation with lots of other kids.
• Having fun is a huge factor in a kids yoga class. Kids learn best when they are enjoying the experience. You’ll know if they like it, as they’ll be asking if they can come back again straight after!
• Lots of encouragement from the teacher throughout the class is essential – it really boosts the children’s confidence and will inspire them to always try their best.

Jaime Amor teaches children's yoga classes and also writes and presents Cosmic Kids Yoga – a popular kids yoga channel on YouTube. On the first of every month we upload a new kids yoga adventure for kids to enjoy at home or in the classroom.