In adult yoga classes, we use a variety of props to support our learning. Bolster, blocks, straps…these tools are all available to help us better connect with what is happening in our bodies, hearts and minds in the given moment. While the objective is the same when we share yoga with the littlest learners, the tools we use are wildly different!
1. Breathing Buddies
Small, plush animals make a wonderful tactile anchor for connecting with the breath. As children lay down with their breathing buddies on their bellies, they can both feel the contact and see the movement of their bodies as their breath takes their buddies up and down for a ride. Check out how I love using these breathing buddies to help preschoolers learn about their animal brains (limbic system) and thinking center (prefrontal cortex).
2. Chime
Sound is an excellent anchor for connecting to the present moment. Invite children to listen to the sound of your chime all the way through, noticing how the sound changes, until they can’t hear it anymore.
3. Hoberman Sphere
A Hoberman Sphere, or breathing ball, is a great tool for adding a visual anchor to the experience of breathing. As we breathe in, we can expand the sphere and feel the expansion in our bellies. Breathing out, we close the sphere and feel our bellies contract.
4. Picture Books
Not only are picture books an age-appropriate and fun tool to use with preschoolers, reading and moving with kids helps set them up for school success by building critical early literacy skills! Look for books that have great illustrations, aren’t too wordy, and are inclusive of diverse people and abilities. Find some of my favorites here!
And the Bonus Resource? TRAINING!
Sharing yoga with preschool kiddos can send even the most experience yoga teacher, librarian, or classroom educator for a loop! How do I know that what I am doing is effective? How do I handle wiggly, giggly kids? How do I implement these concepts into my already exhaustive daily routine? You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers! Come train with me in-person October 26-27 in Seattle, WA or online beginning in January 2020!