Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among American children. A national survey found that 3% of U.S. children (1.7 million) did yoga as of 2012 — that’s 400,000 more children than in 2007.
Yoga and mindfulness have been shown to improve both physical and mental health in school-age children (ages 6 to 12). Yoga improves balance, strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity in children. Yoga and mindfulness offer psychological benefits for children as well. A growing body of research has already shown that yoga can improve focus, memory, self-esteem, academic performance, and classroom behaviour, and can even reduce stress in children.
Emerging research studies also suggest that yoga can help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by improving the core symptoms of ADHD, including inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It can also boost school performance in children with ADHD. A growing number of schools now integrate yoga and mindfulness into physical education programs or classroom curriculums, and many yoga studios offer classes for school-age children. Yoga can be playful and interactive for parents and children at home, as well.
YOGA benefits for kids
- Builds focus and concentration
- Increases strength and flexibility
- Improves balance and coordination
- Creates confidence and self-esteem
- Fosters a feeling of well-being and respect for others
- Promotes stillness, grace and peace
- Develops love for one’s self, inside and out!
A personal note from the makers of those Yoga Games for kids:
“As parents and yoga instructors – we see children as the designers of everyone’s future and we hope to touch their hearts and spirits with love. Creating games which joyfully connect children to themselves, their friends and to their surroundings is our passion!”, Karin Sella & Guy Meltzer, founders of Yogi Gun