Download Free Mindfulness Activities
Yoga, breathing exercises, and calming strategies for kidsHelping kids manage their energy and emotions can be a challenge. One effective way to support self-regulation, focus, and stress relief is through yoga for kids. By incorporating simple yoga poses into daily routines, educators, counselors, social workers, and therapists can equip children with powerful mindfulness tools to feel calm and centered.
Free Resources for Teaching Yoga
To help you introduce yoga to students, we’re sharing two resources from our social skills curriculum:
- Yoga Pose Library Worksheet – A printable guide featuring simple, engaging yoga poses to use in classrooms, therapy sessions, or at home
- Superhero Yoga for Kids Video – A fun, movement-based video that encourages kids to stretch, breathe, and feel like superheroes
Why Yoga for Kids?
Yoga isn’t just about stretching—it’s a tool for emotional regulation, mindfulness, and movement. Practicing easy yoga poses for kids can help:- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve focus and attention
- Encourage self-awareness and relaxation
- Build strength and coordination
Easy Yoga Poses for Kids
Using yoga in schools or therapy settings doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple, effective poses you can introduce:
- Mountain Pose – Stand tall, feet together, arms at sides. Helps with grounding and focus.
- Tree Pose – Stand on one foot, place the other on your ankle or thigh, and balance. Builds concentration and stability.
- Butterfly Pose – Sit with feet together and knees apart, gently flutter knees. Encourages relaxation.
- Star Pose – Stand with legs wide, arms stretched out. Helps release energy and improve body awareness.
- Down Dog Pose – Hands and feet on the ground, hips lifted. Strengthens and calms the mind.
Want even more poses? Download the Yoga Pose Library for a full guide!
Strategies for Teaching Yoga in Schools & Therapy
Introducing yoga to kids in educational and therapeutic settings can be a powerful tool for fostering self-regulation, focus, and emotional well-being. Below are practical ways to integrate yoga effectively into different environments, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all students.
In the Classroom
Use yoga as a break-time activity to help students reset and refocus. Short movement sessions throughout the day enhance attention and engagement.
At Home
Encourage parents to integrate yoga at home, giving students tools to manage emotions beyond the classroom. The Yoga Pose Library Worksheet provides an easy starting point.
In Small Groups
Facilitate small group sessions where students practice poses together, promoting teamwork and mindfulness.
Pairing Yoga with Breathing Exercises
Combine yoga poses with breathing exercises to help students calm their bodies and minds. This reinforces mindfulness and enhances relaxation.
Using Engaging Resources
Introduce yoga with visual and interactive tools:
- Yoga Pose Library Worksheet – A printable guide with simple, engaging poses.
- Superhero Yoga for Kids Video – A fun, movement-based routine that teaches breathing and stretching.
Making Yoga a Routine
Encourage consistency by incorporating short yoga breaks into daily schedules. Even a few minutes can make a difference in focus and regulation.
Want More? Access Additional Free Resources!
We offer a free 30-day trial where you can use our thousands of video lessons, worksheets, and games to teach social skills like mindfulness. Here’s an example video modeling lesson from our curriculum: