Yoga for Different Stages of Speech-Language Development 39presents numerous other physical, cognitive, and emotional
benefits. It increases children’s awareness of the different parts
of their bodies and the various directions in which they move
in space. Yoga also increases awareness of breathing, allowing
maximum oxygenation and improving overall functioning of
bodily systems. Yoga provides opportunities for motor planning,
which are necessary for successful execution of sequences
of actions. For example, boat pose requires three sequential
movements: balancing on the tailbone, elevating the legs, and
bringing the arms alongside the body. The practice of yoga
improves self-regulation, which is defined as the ability to gain
control over bodily functions, manage powerful emotions, and
maintain focus and attention (Shonkoff and Phillips 2000). Yogic
breathing, chanting, and meditation are particularly beneficial in
teaching children to regulate their systems independently. Self-
regulation in children is critical for the development of appropriate
communication and social skills (Williams 2010), important
predictors of later success in life. Although yoga can be practiced
anywhere, classes in studios, community centers, parks, schools,
and other settings led by certified instructors are recommended
to learn the techniques needed to build a consistent yoga practice.
Infant-caregiver classes
New mothers and their children from six weeks to one year of age
can practice yoga together. Although commonly designated as
“Mommy and Baby Yoga” classes, these sessions welcome fathers
and other caregivers. Infant-caregiver classes focus on yoga poses
that support the development of the important prelinguistic skills
of eye gaze, shared attention, and turn-taking. These behaviors are
manifestations of the infants’ engagement with their caregivers,
a topic introduced in the preceding chapter. At this earliest
developmental level, the infants’ participation in these classes