What is kids' yoga? Are classes safe?
Kids' yoga is a form of yoga designed specifically for children. It incorporates yoga poses, breathing practices, and relaxation techniques. Kid's yoga classes are safe, with qualified instructors guiding children through age-appropriate activities to prevent injuries.
What ages are kids yoga for? How long is a class? Do kids need experience?
Kids yoga classes are designed for children ages 6 to 17. They are divided by age group (Level 1 to 3) and the class lasts 50 to 60 minutes. No prior experience is needed, and classes cater to varying levels of physical ability.
What are the benefits of kid's yoga?
Kids yoga offers numerous benefits, including:
- Improved flexibility, strength, and coordination.
- Enhanced concentration and focus.
- Stress relief and relaxation techniques.
- Boosted self-esteem and body awareness.
- Introduction to mindfulness and breathing exercises.
What should children wear to a yoga class?
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably white UPFNA uniforms. Avoid shorts, sleeveless shirts, capris, jeans, tights, and dresses with zippers or large buttons.
What to bring to the class?
Please bring your yoga mat, UPFNA homework book, and water bottle for class.
How often and how long should kids practice yoga each week?
To experience its full benefits, kids should practice yoga at least 4 to 5 times weekly. Consistency helps reinforce the physical and mental aspects of yoga. Ten to fifteen minutes of practice is usually sufficient.
What is the best time to practice?
Morning practice is recommended for setting a positive tone, promoting mindfulness, enhancing focus, and establishing healthy habits for life. However, finding a time that fits your child's routine and energy levels is most important.
Is evening practice ok?
Yes, evening practice can also be beneficial for winding down after a busy day, promoting relaxation, and preparing for a restful sleep.
My teenage boy is involved in various physical activities, but his muscles are tight. Can Asana help?
Absolutely. Yoga asanas can help stretch and strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and prevent injuries, complementing other physical activities.
My kid is not showing any interest in practicing at home. What should I do?
Parents can encourage their children's yoga practice at home by practicing simple poses together once or twice a week as a family or encouraging them to practice with their siblings or friends. You can also request them to teach whatever they learn in the class. Discuss the benefits of yoga and ask them what we should practice if we have back pain, headaches, etc.; kids would love to teach. Offer positive reinforcement, celebrate their progress, and show interest in their yoga journey.
High school kids either do not find time to practice or do not show interest in practice. How can I motivate them?
Understand their busy schedules and interests, and try to integrate yoga into their routine naturally and enjoyably. Offering classes tailored to their age group or interests helps maintain their engagement. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate progress to create a sense of accomplishment. Use technology, such as apps and online videos, to make practice more engaging and accessible.
Can kids continue practicing yoga in their lives?
Yes, Yoga is a life skill. Starting yoga at a young age establishes a foundation for lifelong practice, promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and stress management into adulthood.
Do you provide a schedule or tools for the kids to practice at home?
Yes, we provide 15-minute practice videos and homework sheets every week. Students can either practice with the video(recommended) or follow the practice sheet. When students come to class, parents should sign their homework sheets for the next class. This can help the kids practice regularly.
We will conduct a written or oral test during the first week of December and May. The homework and test grades will be scored and awarded to motivate them.
Can my child volunteer?
Prerequisite: Children must have attended yoga classes for a minimum of three years to volunteer to teach, and they need to be in 8th grade or higher
Step 1: Initially, they will support the teacher by demonstrating yoga poses, correcting postures, posting homework on the WhatsApp group, and testing homework sheets in the classroom for at least one year.
Step 2: They will begin by teaching a 20-minute online practice session class.
Step 3: Later on, they will progress to teaching kids yoga level in in-person classes
Other opportunities: Assisting in preparing class materials, creating brochures and flyers, setting up the pre-setup for UPFNA events, setting up booths at the school, and establishing a yoga blog for kids.
Every minute contributes to their volunteer hours. Once the maximum hours are achieved, UPFNA will present the distinguished Presidential Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) to the volunteer.