LAST week I taught six classes tailored for kids and it was so much fun. Prior to this, I had taught two classes but that was a few years ago.
I have forgotten how much fun it is. I laughed so much and pondered why there were giggles when I said, “Imagine you are in your favourite place with all your favourite people having so much fun”.
When I opened my eyes and looked at the screen, I burst out laughing looking at their cute faces, squinting their eyes with big smiles, giggling and laughing when imagining they were at their favourite place. That made my week.
Sanjeev, a cute little boy, asked me, "Teacher Atilia, you said this class is good for us because we have been working hard on our school work and focusing too much on screens. Then why do we have to look at you on the screen?"
I blanked out and fumbled on a quick reply. "Alright Sanjeev, you can close your eyes and just listen to my voice ok?". Kids are so smart. I jokingly told my other students that I am only going to teach kids from now on. They are more fun.
It is a huge challenge teaching yoga to kids as their focus is easily swayed by literally anything. Some may even yawn and say with all honesty that the class is boring.
I found a little secret word that I say out at the start of the class which makes the kids stay awake until the end - PRIZE.
It seems to work really well. I would say (ala Ariel from Little Mermaid), "I heard some kids say that yoga is boring but I don't believe it. I feel like this class is special. I can feel the magical vibe you kids are giving me. I think you will love yoga and there will be a prize at the end of the class for the best yogi."
Why is yoga good for kids? Well it improves strength, focus, flexibility, balance and breath appreciation capacity in them. Yoga can also improve memory and academic performance. Especially now that we are staying at home, it can even reduce anxiety and emotional stress in kids.
Kids can start as early as when they can understand instructions and major body parts. Usually those four years and above are able to follow a teacher. I have to be really careful with what I teach too as many of them still do not deeply understand anatomy.
This week, I would like you to invite your kids or any kid you know to do yoga with me. You can join us too! (I promise you will have so much fun in our swaying tree pose). - The Vibes. July 21, 2021.
