Introduction

Welcome to our calming corner! Today, we’re discussing a fun and engaging activity for PreK students: Animal Yoga. This activity promotes Social-Emotional Learning by helping children exercise their bodies and minds through stretching, breathing, and moving. The focus on animal poses adds an element of playfulness and creativity to the practice. So, let’s dive into the world of Animal Yoga and explore a no-prep activity, discussion questions, related skills, and next steps!

No-Prep Activity: Animal Yoga Adventure

This activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. Simply guide your students through the following animal yoga poses, ensuring they have enough space around them to move freely:

1. Snake Pose: Have the children lie down on their bellies with their hands by their shoulders. As they inhale, encourage them to lift their heads and shoulders off the ground, arching their backs gently. Hold for 5 counts, then release.
2. Turtle Pose: Instruct the students to sit on the floor with their knees bent and feet flat. Have them slide their hands under their knees, palms facing up. Encourage them to lower their heads and round their backs, creating a turtle shell. Hold for 5 counts, then release.
3. Giraffe Pose: Have the children stand tall with their feet hip-width apart. Instruct them to interlace their fingers and reach their arms up high, stretching like a giraffe reaching for leaves. Hold for 5 counts, then release.
4. Bear Pose: Encourage the students to stand with their feet wide apart and bend forward at the waist, placing their hands on the ground. Have them walk their hands forward and backward, mimicking a bear walking. Repeat for a total of 5 counts.
5. Fish Pose: Instruct the children to sit on the floor with their legs straight out in front of them. Have them place their hands behind their hips and lean back slightly. Encourage them to lift their chests and tilt their heads back, creating a fish shape. Hold for 5 counts, then release.

Discussion Questions

• How did each animal pose make you feel? Which pose was your favorite, and why?
• How can practicing yoga help us develop self-awareness and self-regulation?
• What other animals can you think of that might have their own yoga pose? How would you create that pose?
• How does practicing yoga together help us build a sense of community and cooperation?
• Why is it important to be mindful of others and respect their personal space during yoga?

Related Skills

Animal Yoga not only provides a fun way to exercise but also helps children develop several related skills. These include:

• Body awareness
• Balance and coordination
• Focus and concentration
• Self-regulation and relaxation
• Empathy and social connection

Next Steps

Are you interested in incorporating more Social-Emotional Learning activities into your curriculum? Sign up for free samples of various skills, including Animal Yoga, to help your students grow and thrive. Explore the wealth of resources available and make the most of your calming corner!