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How To Teach Atypical Family Yoga
Unconditional positive regard is the key to seeing kids shine, no matter how neurotypical they are
Non-judgment, self-regulation, and appreciation: these are essential in any yoga class. When teaching atypical kids and their families (as I’ve done for 20 years), these qualities will make or break your class.
After getting questions from another yoga teacher who was getting ready to teach her first family yoga to a group of families with autistic kids, I decided to share my own best practices and suggestions.
These suggestions could be useful to you as well if you are doing yoga with your own family at home. Modeling inclusivity benefits everyone, no matter how neurotypical they are.
First of all, I want to invite you to drop your preconceptions. It isn’t going to be like a stereotypical yoga class. Make sure that you are very self-regulated before the class. Once you’re there, read the room and decide whether the kids need to get their energy out or need to start slowly and calmly. Be prepared with an outline, but willing to pivot.
Best Practices with Neurodiverse Groups
- “YES” space: Create a haven from the judgment of the world. What autistic kids and their parents…
