As you watch children play, take note on how they move: Kids were born to stretch, bend, tuck and roll. They touch their toes, straighten their legs, and reach to the sky. But in a world laden with video games, computers, tablets and television, how do we entice kids to use their flexibility powers for good?

“Ohm-M-G”, yoga may be your answer!

Using various poses and techniques, yoga combines the mind, body and heart to achieve peace and balance. Nowadays, adults use yoga as a form of exercise and stress management, as well as a time to “get away” from the hustle-and-bustle of society and home life. However, yoga can be used to increase children’s physical activity in an entertaining and exciting way! Popular poses are often influenced by nature and well-loved animals – two things that are very familiar to children. Invest in a deck of yoga cards for children (such as Yoga Pretzels) and slowly introduce each pose to your child in the morning, before meals or at bedtime. You can also teach the benefits of yoga through a kid-friendly video. YogaKids, a program founded by Marsha Wenig, encourages not only the physical aspect of yoga, but socialization with friends, meditation vocalization, and even teaches the ABC’s.

Yoga will not only increase your child’s physical activity level, but their ability to focus and manage anxiety. It can also be a family bonding experience. Set aside a time to play a game of “Yogi Says”, or have your child be the yoga teacher and teach you the poses!
So, Moms and Dads: abandon your texts, Tweets and status update. Turn off the television and open your child’s mind and heart to the magic of eagles, mountains, cats and cows. Through yoga, your children will learn and grow. And if you participate alongside them, you will too!

About the Author:
Ashley K. Fratello is a certified teacher in New York. She has a master’s degree in elementary education and early childhood education from Medaille College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in music and theater from Buffalo State College. Fratello has worked as an education specialist, contributing to an early childhood franchise curriculum for ages birth to 12 years of age.

References:
Guber, T. L., Kalish, L., & Fatus, S. (2005). Yoga pretzels: 50 fun yoga activities for kids
and grownups. Bath, UK: Barefoot Books.