Yoga is a mind-body practice that incorporates movement, breathing, and mindfulness. It’s a wonderful form of therapy that can support both self-care and mental health. Research shows that young clients benefit from yoga through reduced stress, improved mood, and increased resilience.
The Yoga Poses for Kids handouts include two pages: one page features illustrations of each pose alongside its name, while the other page includes a short description of how to do each pose. The handouts include 16 easy-to-follow poses, such as Butterfly Pose, Bridge Pose, and Cat Pose. No matter which pose clients choose, they are encouraged to breathe deeply and simply enjoy the moment.
Using the handout helps kids and teens feel confident as they learn different yoga poses. Try creating a calm and cozy spot at home and remind them to spend a few minutes each day practicing the poses. Another helpful tip is to join them in the practice or cheer them on.
Feel free to introduce the handout at school as well so that students have an accessible tool to de-stress during busy days.
These handouts pair well with our 6-page Yoga Worksheets for Kids to enhance a child’s yoga practice.
References:
1. Kerekes, N., Söderström, A., Holmberg, C., & Hedman Ahlström, B. (2024). Yoga for children and adolescents: A decade-long integrative review on feasibility and efficacy in school-based and psychiatric care interventions. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 180, 489-499. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.11.016
2. Hagen, I., & Nayar, U. S. (2014). Yoga for Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Well-Being: Research Review and Reflections on the Mental Health Potentials of Yoga. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 5, 35. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2014.00035
3. Khunti, K., Boniface, S., Norris, E., De Oliveira, C. M., & Shelton, N. (2022). The effects of yoga on mental health in school-aged children: A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Randomised Control Trials. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 28(3), 1217. https://doi.org/10.1177/13591045221136016
