Toddler Yoga: Mindfulness and movement for little ones

In today’s world, where technology and distractions are everywhere, it can be challenging to find moments of mindfulness and physical activity for toddlers. However, introducing toddler yoga into their daily routine can be a wonderful way to promote mindfulness and movement. It’s a time to be together, fully present and free of distractions. This practice not only helps toddlers develop physical flexibility and strength but also cultivates self regulation, fine motor skills and a sense of serenity. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of toddler yoga and provide some simple and fun yoga poses to get your little ones started on their journey to mindfulness and movement.

Toddler yoga involves a series of gentle stretches and poses that promote flexibility, balance, and coordination but also set a solid foundation for their physical development. Through these movements, toddlers enhance their gross and fine motor skills while learning to connect with their emotions and feelings in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Practicing mindfulness during yoga sessions can help toddlers identify their emotions and cope with stress and frustration more effectively. Engaging in toddler yoga also helps cultivate focus and attention, leading to improved concentration skills as they learn to hold poses and follow simple instructions.

Roll out your mats, and discover some simple yoga poses that are easy for toddlers to learn:

Breathwork: Whether lying down in Savasana (a relaxing, lying down pose) or in a cross-legged position, practice breathing with your little one before beginning your yoga exercises. Teach them the significance of breath control and how it can have a calming effect on the nervous system. Begin by emphasizing the breath’s connection to the belly. Have your child visualize filling a balloon with a deep inhale, counting to three or four, and gently letting the air out, similar to deflating a balloon. This counting exercise not only helps with focus but also teaches them the rhythm of their breath. 

Downward Dog pose: Start on all fours with hands and knees on the floor. Encourage your toddler to lift their hips and straighten their legs while forming an inverted "V" shape. This pose stretches the back, arms, and legs, promoting full-body strength and flexibility.

Tree pose: Stand tall with feet together. Have your toddler lift one foot and place it on the inner thigh of the opposite leg, while keeping the other foot firmly on the ground. Encourage them to balance and reach their arms overhead like the branches of a tree. This pose helps improve balance and focus.

Butterfly pose: Sit on the floor with the soles of the feet touching each other. Gently encourage your toddler to flap their knees up and down like butterfly wings. This pose opens up the hips and promotes flexibility in the groin area.

Happy Baby pose: Lie on the back with arms and legs in the air, holding onto the feet. This pose is playful and soothing, stretching the inner thighs and calming the mind.

Cat-Cow pose: Get on all fours and guide your toddler to arch their back upward like a stretching cat, then drop the belly down and lift their head like a cow. This gentle flow stretches the spine and aids in spine flexibility. To make it more fun, engage your child by asking them what sounds a cat and cow make during the movements. 

At Doona, we're here to make toddler yoga a stress-free and enjoyable activity for you and your little ones. Explore our innovative products like the Doona Car Seat & Stroller and Liki Trike, designed to simplify your daily parenting routine, from getting to yoga class to enjoying outdoor adventures. Namaste!