Yoga with young children is all about tapping into their imagination and creativity. Every pose can tell a story, and every movement can become an adventure. The best way to begin is by discovering what excites and interests the children.
This playful yoga sequence was inspired by my time with my four-year-old twin niece and nephew, whose love of colors, music, and fantasy never ceases to amaze me. They often get captivated by certain poses and eagerly join in, making yoga a shared and joyful experience.
Children have an incredible sense of wonder, and I love to bring that energy into our yoga practice by introducing the concept of chakras in a simple, playful way. This class uses basic poses, vibrant colors, and guided visualization to connect with each chakra, or energy center, allowing kids to explore yoga in a way that feels engaging and magical.
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We’ll begin with a warm-up that includes a child-friendly version of Do-In (pronounced doh-een), a gentle self-massage technique that promotes mindfulness of the body. Through tapping, shoulder shrugs, and breathing exercises with sounds and imagination, kids can get in touch with how their bodies feel.
The Poses and Their Themes:
- Tree Pose (Root Chakra): Feel grounded and connected to the earth like a strong tree.
Color: Red | Theme: Grounding, safety, connection to earth - Chair Pose (Sacral Chakra): Tap into your creative side and let your emotions flow.
Color: Orange | Theme: Creativity, emotions, flow - Warrior Pose (Solar Plexus Chakra): Stand strong and feel confident, like a brave warrior.
Color: Yellow | Theme: Confidence, power, strength - Camel Pose (Heart Chakra): Open your heart to love, compassion, and kindness.
Color: Green | Theme: Love, compassion, kindness - Lion Pose (Throat Chakra): Roar with your truth and express yourself boldly.
Color: Blue | Theme: Communication, expression, truth - Child Pose (Third Eye Chakra): Dive into your imagination and see with your mind’s eye.
Color: Indigo | Theme: Imagination, intuition, insight - Lotus Pose (Crown Chakra): Find stillness and connect with the world around you.
Color: Violet | Theme: Connection
Optional Activity:
- Coloring Mandalas: After the yoga session, kids can colour chakra-themed mandala. Colouring is a great and therapeutic way to help lessen unpleasant feelings and reduce anxiety and stress. Adults can join in this activity and ask them questions such as: what colors they see during practice, which resonates with them and why.
This practice should be fun, light-hearted, and interactive, allowing kids to explore the concept of chakras in a way that resonates with their imagination and sense of play.
Download our free Kid's Yoga Mandala Colouring page here!
PRACTICING WITH COMPASSION AND CARE
While yoga techniques offer numerous benefits for your physical and mental health, it's important to approach it with care and mindfulness. Listen to your body and respect the limitations of your body and those in your care.
Use props when necessary, warm up properly, and prioritise safety and self-awareness of yourself and those in your care.
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Elly is practicing with our natural dye hand block printed meditation bundles and yoga accessories
Elly Chandrawira
Yoga Teacher & Calm Buddhi Content Creator