When you think of yoga, you might envision people twisted up like a pretzel or chanting complicated mantras. In reality, yoga isn't all complicated physical maneuvers and solemn meditation. Yoga classes designed for children can improve flexibility and cardiovascular health, as well as relieving the stress many children experience in a world full of school deadlines, busy parents, video games and academic lessons. Yoga classes also provide an alternative to gymnastics and team sports for children who want a non-competitive exercise option.
Benefits
Yoga can improve children's cardiovascular systems, as well as tone and stretch their muscles. Michigan State University strength coach Mike Vorkapich explains in the 2009 Los Angeles Times article "Kids Get Health Benefit From Yoga" that the stretching and body alignment of yoga can improve children's athletic skills. Although research into yoga's mental benefits for children is limited, according to MayoClinic.com, anecdotal evidence indicates it calms down hyperactive children, enhances concentration and improves focus.
Differences Between Child and Adult Classes
Instead of focusing on perfecting poses or toning specific body parts, children's yoga teacher Marsha Wenig tells "Yoga Journal" that yoga classes for children often emphasize the more spiritual benefits of yoga. These spiritual aspects often include stillness, grace, well-being, connection, focus, peace, balance and flexibility. The classes also emphasize the connection between breathing and the different poses. When moving the children through the poses, instructors often integrate storytelling, songs and role-playing into the session. They also find child-friendly names to go along with the poses.
Safety Considerations
Taking a few precautions before class can help your child avoid injury. Check out the environment to ensure the ground is level and the room is a comfortable temperature. Do not feed your child before class -- certain poses might upset her stomach and cause nausea or vomiting. Keep your child home from yoga class if she is sick. Some of the yoga breathing poses can potentially exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Alert the instructor before class if your child has special medical needs or a medical condition.
What to Look For
Picking the right class and environment for your child can ensure they have a safe, age-appropriate experience. Avoid classes that teach Ashtanga, or power yoga, and Bikram, in which the instructor keeps the temperature of the room at 100 to 110 degrees F. Both of these styles are better suited for adult yoga practitioners, according to MayoClinic.com. Look for an instructor with training and experience teaching children's classes. Before signing your child up, observe a class so you can see the instructor's interaction with the children.
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