Here’s a sobering fact about today’s children: One in three kids in the U.S. are either obese or overweight. Even more troubling? More schools are cutting back on physical activity and recess time. Plus, kids spend more time in sedentary activities like playing video games, watching TV, or spending countless hours doing who-knows-what on their phones.
However, by becoming a yoga teacher that specializes in training children, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the health and wellness of the next generation. Not only that, the kids’ yoga business is booming, with more parents and educators recognizing the benefits.
- Improves Mental Health and Physical Activity of Children
Social media. The global pandemic. Social justice issues.
Today’s children have a lot to process – and that’s not even considering all their extracurriculars like band or sports and their always-growing pile of homework.
Yoga, though, helps children learn relaxation techniques they can use throughout their lives to manage stress and anxiety. Kids’ yoga classes often utilize mindfulness practices that teach them how to stay present and focused in the moment. That can help them manage their thoughts and emotions more effectively.
But there’s also the physical component to consider. Children can improve their balance, coordination, and flexibility through yoga.
Here’s where this becomes appealing to instructors who specialize in teaching children: Spreading wellness and healthy living habits isn’t just good for the children in your yoga classes but also for your community.
That’s because you’re teaching toddlers and young adults healthy habits they can (hopefully) carry with them throughout their lifetime. You can also build connections with other yoga teachers and wellness professionals in your community.
- Flexible Work Schedule, Reasonable Pay
Need a better work-life balance? Teaching classes gives you some flexibility, as you can work part-time and teach classes after school or on weekends – whatever fits your schedule. This is an excellent option for parents who want to spend more time with their children or for individuals who wish to supplement their income with a meaningful and rewarding job.
However, it’s difficult to pin down exact salary figures, as that depends on factors like location/area, number of classes and students you teach, etc. You may also have to factor in costs like renting a studio and potential licensure/certification costs. Make sure you also investigate insurance, such as professional liability insurance, which covers possible claims made against you for a variety of reasons.
- Personal Growth and Development, Networking Opportunities
You’ll quickly learn that teaching yoga to kids is a lot different from teaching adults. Hint: You’re going to need patience. Otherwise, teaching helps you develop skills in communication, leadership, and speaking in front of groups or crowds – all of which could come in handy someday.
Of course, diving into the kids’ yoga business also gives you networking opportunities. While rewarding, becoming a yoga teacher comes with its own challenges. Use your newfound network to help you along the way.
A Different Set of Challenges
Today’s children face obstacles you likely didn’t.
Then again, they also have access to tools you could never have imagined at that age. And that includes yoga – it’s no longer viewed as an adult-only activity. It’s a growing trend as parents and educators increasingly see the need to improve today’s kid’s lifestyles.
