3 Keys to Effective Children's Yoga Classes

Most educators can remember a time when we have planned what we thought was a fantastic lesson only to have it fizzle out when we presented it. Its no different with children's yoga. Sometimes the plan works, and sometimes it doesn't. While it's all part of our own learning process, it can be frustrating embarrassing and de-motivating when it does happen.

I've put together what I think are the 5 most important keys that minimize this effect. Taken from my own personal mistakes, I hope that new teachers can learn from them, and experienced teachers will add to this list so we can all continue to bring quality programming to children everywhere!


Variety -
Activities that only address one topic or one learning style will fail to engage some of the other students. Think of ways to include all of the senses and all of the learning styles in an activity to vary your sequences, games, topics and activities. For example, rhymes combined with postures or music-based activity combined with movement- (such as the "Freeze Dance" Game)  or breathing combined with art will ensure that your lessons will work for all students.


Engagement-  
An effective, interactive warm-up activity will draw students interest into the theme. This is the key to starting a class off right. I know a teacher who shows a series of pictures to her students before starting a class. Another starts with a 'Memory Game" of what was done last class. Whatever you do, take the first five minutes to draw students into the lesson: to get, and keep, them engaged.



Flexibility -
Sometimes we plan our lesson down to the minute only to find that the kids take it in another direction. Or, we find that we have more than enough material for the class and some things will not get done in the time allowed. We feel pressure when this happens. This happens more than you know. I have found that its a good idea to stay flexible. Always allow some space in lessons so student questions can be answered or that spontaneous trains of thought can be followed to new understanding & a broader experience for your students.





What are some other tips that you have discovered that work for effective children's yoga or other academic or enrichment activities? Please tell us in the comments below!


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Contact: barbara@bodylogique.com