14Want to teach
yoga to teens?
Now in its 13th year, TeenYoga
offers an evidence based course
for professionals working with
teens. The course is creative and
participant centred.2017 COURSES IN: Abu Dhabi
Dublin • Glasgow • London
Manchester • Matlock • South
Africa • Spain • Sydney • TruroPhone or email to book:
[email protected]
01761 470 658Bryony Duckitt outlines the key ingredients it takes to
be a great children’s yoga teacher
Ingredients you will need:Y Yogini /Yogi
O Openness, organisation, originality
G Gratitude, generosity, grace
A Authenticity, acceptance, accessibilityT Trusting, truthful, tolerant, timekeeping
E Easy going, engaging, energetic, equal
A Articulate, agile, amusing, aware
C Caring, considerate, consistent, calm,
confi dent, centered
H Humble, happy, healthy, helpful
E Educated, eloquent, enthusiastic,
encouraging
R Reliable, role model, reasonable,
relaxed, respectful e method:
Be prepared to be unprepared!! Let go of your
ego and the need to control and simply allow
a class to fl ow. Not all classes will go exactly
as planned and this is okay. Children will
ultimately lead the class. Remember that as a teacher you should
be a guide, facilitator and role model- never a dictator. Always leave your
personal problems at the door.
Try to be on eye level when
communicating with the children –
either squat down or sit in a meditative
pose when giving instructions – never
use patronising language. Share rich
vocabulary...feed them with beautiful
words.
Allow freedom of speech, movement and
choice (providing it is not disturbing the
child’s own practice and development, or
that of the rest of the group.)
Be sensitive to the unique needs and
moods of children - some are expressive,
talkative and enthusiastic while others
may be reserved, shy and withdrawn.
Recipe for success
Children can be easily distracted, so an
engaging, fun class is essential.
Teach with simplicity and patience and
treat all children equally.
Empower your students with appropriate
praise and encouragement.
Off er kindness, love, understanding,
appreciation and acceptance.
Teach with respect for the body.
Be clear in your intention and gentle
in your approach when applying
‘corrections’ and ‘adjustments’. Avoid
physically realigning children.
Allow children to make mistakes and
learn, rather than forcing them to attain
‘perfect yoga’. Remember, we are planting
seeds for a lifelong practice.
Children love to make up their own poses
and enjoy teaching familiar poses to their
peers so give them this opportunity.
Teach them to honour and take care of
their bodies as tools of cooperation, not
competition.
Teach them to have compassion and
loving kindness for themselves and
others.
Be joyful. Have fun. Share your love. Be
authentic. Teach from your heart.
Enjoy yourself.Commitment to ourselves:
remember, self-care is not sel sh
To give our best we must be at our best.
Commit to your own practice – living your
yoga on and off the mat.
Keep your yoga and teaching skills
current through continued learning,
attending workshops and trainings.
Always be open to learning from your
students as they learn from you.
Create lesson plans that you are proud of.
Maintain a clean, well-groomed
appearance.
Manage your business fi nances accordingom yoga teacher training guide
OM_73 TEACHER TRAINING.indd 14 03/05/2017 10:39:35