Managing the classroom can be one of the most challenging parts of holding space for yoga. Review some tips for doing so below. Encourage personal power and promote speaking up. 

Grades: PreK‌ ‌-‌ ‌K‌ ‌

• Have a basic understanding of childhood development. Toddlers tend to be restless and not able to sit still very long.
• Be upfront about rules. Sing songs that help teach children the studio rules and most importantly follow through with addressing ones who are not following through with the rules.
• Transitions can be difficult for young age groups. Try creating a story or song when cleaning up the room, for example.
• Have the children be a part of the process. If using props, direct children to help pass them out. Help each child gain a sense of purpose.
• While working with younger ages, having a consistent routine will help them to solidify their poses or postures.
• Collaborate with a teacher or family member to encourage the practice outside of the classroom.

Grades: 1-5‌ ‌

• Ground yourself as a teacher when working with students, make sure you are in a headspace to work through children who may not listen or understand the value of your class.
• Provide clear expectations of what yoga is and isn’t. Set ground rules for respecting other students, as well as the Yoga Teacher.
• Explain why expectations matter. This is a chance to educate children on the benefits of self-awareness.
• You are a role model for the students. Encourage play and exploration with yoga but also keep calm and balanced.
• Use language to reinforce and encourage the follow-through of classroom rules and expectations.

Grades: 6-8‌ ‌

• Acknowledge the students and inspire them with encouraging mantras and phrases.
• Teach Yamas and Niyamas to start educating the structure of yoga practice.
• Try to keep the imagination sparked and invite a playful experience.
• Encourage teamwork. This can be a delicate time in a student's peer-building experience and your example is paramount.

Grades: 9-12‌

• High schoolers are much more capable of following rules, so build on the structure and guidelines of yoga.
• Acknowledge and encourage peer support.
• At this age, play might not be normalized, bring in games, and encourage self-exploration.
• Express teachings that build upon self-confidence and self-esteem to help build a healthy rapport.

TO DO: Review the Class Guidelines and submit a journal reflection for each one. Book your sangha labs to put your learnings into practice in Teach One Another.