Is it good to have siblings and friends in yoga class?
Absolutely! I often have siblings in the class, usually after having a brother or sister having already attended the class for a while. Then they talk about it at home, the siblings get curious about the class and they would also like to try it. Being able to connect to something that is important to a close person will strengthen their bond.
Furthermore, the older siblings are such amazing support for their younger siblings.
The same goes for friends. Creating a community in our yoga classes is a very important aspect. It is great to have friends in the yoga classes, it allows for a safe landing and to have someone who can be a partner for the yoga couple exercises in the classes and at home.
Will they distract each other?
No, I have never experienced it. On the contrary, they show each other how to do it, they practice the poses together at home. The connection in a yoga class shows the children how to be gentle, understanding and patient with each other.
Towards the end of the class, we like to send love to someone who is close to our hearts. This is usually mom and dad, or grandparents, but I often hear the family dogs and cats, and their best friends, too.
It is so important to have that sense of belonging, connection and shared interest.
How can we best stick to our routines?
Same as for us, adults, children can also benefit from small reminders and good examples. When children remind each other of the importance of breathing, it will come across very differently, compared to an instruction received from an adult. This way the connection between the children will be strengthened and deepened. We must also admit, sometimes we just don`t feel like going to a class. But when a friend is there, it will suddenly become more tempting to participate.