Kids
Mindfulness and Movement for Children
Teaching yoga and dance to children goes beyond simply knowing poses and routines; it’s about understanding how movement and mindfulness align with the unique developmental and behavioral needs of kids at every stage—from preschool through high school. With this insight, I am perfectly positioned to engage, educate, and inspire children in a way that is not only interactive and fun, but also deeply supportive of their overall growth and well-being.
Physical Health
Kids can improve body awareness, flexibility, and strength through yoga postures and dance exercises. Enhanced balance and improved coordination are essential for overall physical development. It's practiced in a safe space and noncompetitive environment, which make learning fun and judgment free.
Emotional and Social Benefits
Yoga reduces stress and anxiety by providing children with tools such as relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and meditation. Dance stretches release tension in the body. Mastering simple yoga poses or dance routines can boosts self-esteem and confidence. Yoga helps children recognise and manage their emotions more effectively, leading to better emotional resilience. Group yoga and dance classes teach children cooperation, respect for others, and empathy, as they practice together in a supportive environment.
Mental and Cognitive Health
Yoga and dance increases focus, concentration, and patience. Through breathing exercises and meditation, mindfulness is developed. This teaches children to be present in the moment, which is beneficial for emotional regulation and stress management.
Overall Well-Being
Yoga helps children develop a sense of calm and inner peace, contributing to their overall happiness and well-being. Dance encourages kids to explore creativity, self-expression, and to feel comfortable with their bodies. We also discuss eating balanced, getting rest, managing our emotions, and moving our bodies, which are pillars of a healthy lifestyle.
My Journey into Kids Yoga and Dance
Interestingly, my entire yoga career actually started with teaching kids yoga. After graduating from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a BFA in Dance, I sought a way to use movement to help others. This led me to a Children’s Yoga Certification Program at Yoga Child Studio. The training opened my eyes to the incredible benefits and power of yoga, not just for adults but for children too. I quickly dove into teaching at numerous schools, community centers, studios, and camps in the greater Philadelphia and New Jersey area. Through magical meditations, themed breathing exercises, and yoga pose adventures, I inspired children ages 2-14 to bring mindfulness and movement into their lives.
Working with so many children in different settings showed me how therapeutic yoga can be. This realisation led me to Toronto, Canada, where I studied Teaching Yoga to Kids with Disabilities and Special Needs through The Special Yoga Program. After this training, I began specialising in therapeutic kids yoga, particularly focusing on children with ADD, ADHD, and Autism. In my sessions with these children, I witnessed how yoga improved their concentration, coordination, confidence, and helped cultivate inner peace. This journey then led me to study my 500 Hours Advance Teacher Training at Yoga Medicine, where to this day I continue to work with people of all ages, injuries, and special conditions.
Throughout my career, I have led Kids Yoga Programs in studios in the USA and Panama, taught yoga in schools, and worked privately to heal and empower children through yoga. I have also taught kids ballet, contemporary dance, creative movement, and choreographed dances for shows and special events.
I believe that integrating mindfulness and movement into children’s daily lives is essential for their overall development. Through yoga or dance, children can explore their creativity, cultivate calmness, move freely, and develop a strong foundation for a healthy, balanced life.
Let's Practice
I am happy to bring the benefits of Yoga and Dance to a school, community center, or studio near you. I also offer in home sessions if you want a private session for your child and additionally they can invite their friends. Yoga or dance birthday party activities are also available. I do require that a parent or caregiver be present at the location during the session.
