3YP, 4YP students learn important lessons through monthly yoga

Elbridge Elementary’s littlest learners are being taught how to better listen through yoga lessons. Colleen Smith from BeLive Yoga visits with each 3YP and 4YP classroom once a month.

“One goal is to teach them ways to help themselves calm down when they are upset or overstimulated,” explained Smith.

Those techniques include pausing to take a breath before reacting to something. Other skills Smith works on with the kids are coordination, self-regulation, balance, and helping them to use both sides of their brain. Smith said it’s important for kids to understand when they feel upset, and how to work through it.

“This comes with much practice, but we are laying the groundwork with each class and each school year,” Smith added.

Smith said both she and the teachers notice a difference in the kids as the year progresses, and that the yoga and mindfulness games, songs, and postures help them learn these skills in a fun way.