A small clear space. A mat is optional.
What to Say
“Which animal shall we become?”
“Let us move slowly enough to notice our bodies.”
“How does your animal stretch or rest?”
“Your movement can look different from mine.”
What to Do
STEP 1 Clear a safe space and choose two or three familiar animals.
STEP 2 Begin with a slow cat stretch on hands and knees or while seated.
STEP 3 Stand or sit tall like a giraffe and reach gently upwards.
STEP 4 Finish curled or seated like a resting animal.
STEP 5 Notice one body part that feels warm, stretched or still.
JOIN YOUR CHILD Move with your child and allow them to invent an animal. Follow their movement without judging accuracy.
One-Minute Version
Choose one animal, make one slow stretch and finish with one comfortable resting position.
If Your Child Does Not Want to Participate
Let your child watch, choose the animal, make only the sound or use hands and facial expressions. Movement should never be forced.
Make It Your Own
Use seated versions of every movement.
Keep movements small when space is limited.
Let the child hold a chair or wall for balance.
Avoid positions involving weight on hands or knees if uncomfortable.
Your child may begin moving more slowly, copy a movement, invent a variation or notice sensations in the body. Laughter and imaginative play are welcome.
Use a clear, non-slip space and avoid difficult balancing or deep stretching. Movement should remain comfortable and pain-free. Adapt to the child’s mobility and stop if discomfort occurs.
Animal Yoga Movement, LITTLE MINDS, BIG FOCUS Teacher Training Materials and Activity Collection.
