Getting your kids involved in physical activity is super important, and what better way to combine movement, mindfulness, and pure fun than with yoga? Yoga for kids isn’t just about stretching; it’s a fantastic way to boost their balance, focus, and even help them manage big emotions. If you’re wondering where to start, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve rounded up the best yoga for kids products available, from grippy mats to engaging activity cards, to help your little ones embrace their inner yogi.
Why Yoga for Kids is a Game-Changer
You might think yoga is just for adults, but trust us, kids absolutely love it! It’s an incredible tool for their development, both physically and emotionally. Here’s why more and more parents are introducing their children to yoga:
- Boosts Physical Development: Yoga improves flexibility, strength, coordination, and balance. Kids learn to move their bodies in new ways, enhancing their overall physical literacy.
- Enhances Mental Focus: Holding poses and following sequences helps children develop concentration and attention skills, which can even benefit their schoolwork.
- Teaches Emotional Regulation: Yoga introduces mindfulness and breathing techniques that can help kids calm down, reduce stress, and handle frustration more effectively.
- Encourages Creativity and Imagination: Many kids’ yoga poses are inspired by animals or nature, allowing children to use their imagination during practice.
- Promotes Healthy Habits: Starting yoga early can instill a lifelong love for movement and wellness.
- Screen-Free Fun: In a world dominated by screens, yoga offers a wonderful, active, and engaging alternative.
What to Look for in Kids’ Yoga Products
When searching for the best yoga for kids gear, consider these factors:
- Safety First: Look for non-toxic, phthalate-free materials, especially for mats.
- Durability: Kids are naturally playful, so products should withstand active use.
- Engagement: Bright colors, fun designs, and interactive elements keep kids interested.
- Age Appropriateness: Ensure the product is suitable for your child’s age and developmental stage.
- Ease of Use: Simple instructions and intuitive designs make it easier for kids (and parents!) to get started.
Ready to find the perfect yoga tools for your little one? Let’s dive into our top picks!
The 10 Best Yoga for Kids Products Reviewed
1. Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat Exercise Mat, Yoga for Kids with…
This Gaiam Kids Yoga Mat is a fantastic entry point for young yogis, specifically designed for children aged 5-8. It’s not just a mat; it’s a foundation for teaching healthy body image, focus, balance, and calm, even amidst typical kid silliness. The thoughtful design ensures a safe and engaging experience for active children.
Key Features:
- Ideal for children ages 5-8.
- Textured non-slip surface for a secure grip.
- Non-toxic and 6P Free (phthalate-free PVC).
- Includes a bonus downloadable yoga class specifically for kids.
- Dimensions: 60″ L x 24″ W x 3mm thick.
Pros:
- Safe, non-toxic materials.
- Excellent grip prevents slipping during active play.
- Includes a helpful introductory yoga class.
- Designed with children’s developmental needs in mind.
Cons:
- May be a bit thin for some preferences at 3mm.
- Specific age range (5-8) might not suit all young children.
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise this mat for its vibrant colors and secure grip, making it perfect for their energetic kids. The included yoga class is a huge hit, helping children easily follow along and enjoy their practice right away. Users appreciate the peace of mind knowing it’s non-toxic.
See it on Amazon here
2. Antsy Pants Kids Yoga Mat – Yoga Mats for Kids,…
The Antsy Pants Kids Yoga Mat is the perfect starter mat for any budding yogi, offering a safe and comfortable surface for all sorts of activities. Its super-grip, non-slip design ensures stability during yoga, gymnastics, or even dance, making it a versatile choice for active little ones. Plus, it’s built to travel wherever the fun takes them!
Key Features:
- Non-slip, phthalate-free surface.
- 3mm cushioning for comfort and safety.
- Extra textured non-slip surface for steady feet.
- Lightweight and durable, ideal for travel.
- Tear-resistant and wipes clean in seconds.
- Measures 60″ L x 24″ H.
Pros:
- Excellent non-slip grip for various activities.
- Phthalate-free for parent peace of mind.
- Highly portable and durable for on-the-go fun.
- Very easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze.
Cons:
- 3mm thickness might be considered thin for some.
- Design is more basic compared to some themed mats.
User Impressions: This mat earns high marks from parents for its sturdiness and ease of cleaning, which are crucial for kids’ products. Many highlight its effectiveness in preventing slips, making it a safe choice for energetic play and foundational yoga practices. Its lightweight nature is also a big plus for taking it to different locations.
See it on Amazon here
3. Yoga Cards for Kids, Beginner Yoga and Meditation – Set…
Move beyond just the mat with these engaging Yoga Cards for Kids, offering a comprehensive set of 70 yoga poses and 4 short 5-step yoga flow cards. These double-sided, colorful flashcards are an excellent addition to any kids’ yoga kit, making practice a fun and creative game whether at home, school, or on holiday.
Key Features:
- Contains 70 yoga pose cards and 4 short 5-step yoga flow cards.
- High-quality, colorful, double-sided coated cards (2.8 x 4.3 inch).
- Front: Sanskrit/English title, illustrated pose, cute cartoon.
- Reverse: Simple explanation of pose steps.
- Great tool for teachers, parents, and instructors.
- Supports concentration, strength, body awareness, and self-confidence.
Pros:
- Extensive variety of poses and flows.
- Visually appealing and easy for kids to understand.
- Excellent for guided practice, brain breaks, and mindfulness.
- Durable, coated cards withstand frequent use.
Cons:
- Requires an adult or older child to read/interpret for very young children.
- Cards are relatively small, which might be a drawback for group settings.
User Impressions: Customers love the clear, child-friendly illustrations and the step-by-step instructions. They’re often used for quick brain breaks in classrooms or for imaginative play at home, with many parents noting an improvement in their children’s focus and physical awareness. It’s a popular gift choice for supporting children’s well-being.
See it on Amazon here
4. Covelico Yoga Dice – Yoga for Kids, Pose and Play…
Turn yoga into a delightful game with the Covelico Yoga Dice! This large, soft foam 12-sided dice brings an element of suspense and spontaneity to any yoga session. Featuring 11 kid-friendly poses plus a “pick your own” side, it’s a fantastic screen-free tool to build flexibility, balance, and strength, perfect for individual practice or group fun.
Key Features:
- 12-sided large foam dice with 11 kid-friendly poses + “pick your own.”
- Screen-free calm play that keeps routines fresh.
- Guides poses to build core strength, stability, and body awareness.
- Icons and simple labels for mixed-age participation.
- Soft, quiet PU foam protects floors and fingers.
- Lightweight, durable, classroom, and travel-ready.
- QR code for quick routines, breathing prompts, and games.
Pros:
- Makes yoga exciting and unpredictable for kids.
- Excellent for encouraging spontaneous movement and creative play.
- Safe for indoor use and durable for outdoor adventures.
- Supports mindfulness and regulation with brain breaks.
Cons:
- Relies on imagination; some kids might prefer more structured guidance initially.
- Only includes 11 specific poses, though the “pick your own” expands options.
User Impressions: This yoga dice is a huge hit for families and educators alike. Users praise how it transforms yoga into an engaging game, especially for kids who might resist traditional routines. It’s seen as a brilliant tool for quick energy release, mindful transitions, and making family yoga fun and accessible for all ages.
See it on Amazon here
5. Gaiam Kids Balance Ball – Exercise Stability Yoga Ball,…
The Gaiam Kids Balance Ball is more than just a toy; it’s a child-sized 45cm exercise stability yoga ball that doubles as an active learning chair. Perfect for exercise, yoga, homework, or even just watching TV, this ball encourages kids to build healthy posture, improve balance, and increase blood flow to the brain, enhancing focus and concentration.
Key Features:
- Child-sized 45cm (1.5 ft) balance ball.
- Suitable for exercise, yoga, fitness, and active sitting.
- Encourages healthy posture and improves balance.
- Increases blood flow to the brain, improving focus & concentration.
- Provides an outlet for excess energy and reduces fidgeting.
- Includes an easy-inflation air pump.
- Weight Capacity: 200lbs.
Pros:
- Versatile for both active play and focused sitting.
- Supports core strength and posture development.
- Helps high-energy kids channel their “wiggles.”
- Durable and designed for child safety.
Cons:
- Requires initial inflation and potential re-inflation after 24 hours.
- Not all children may adapt to sitting on a stability ball for extended periods.
User Impressions: Parents and teachers rave about this balance ball’s ability to keep kids engaged and focused, especially during sedentary activities like homework. Many report a noticeable improvement in attention span and a reduction in fidgeting. It’s often recommended as an alternative seating option for active learners.
See it on Amazon here
6. Yoga Cards for Kids – Pose Deck for Beginners, Exercise…
These Yoga Cards for Kids are an essential tool for helping children manage emotions, stay focused, and integrate calming strategies into their daily routine. With 32 illustrated poses and guided instructions, this portable deck offers energizing brain breaks and relaxing wind-downs, making it perfect for mindfulness activities, SEL, and even therapy sessions.
Key Features:
- 32 illustrated poses with guided instructions.
- Helps kids manage emotions and stay focused.
- Great for mindfulness, calming strategies, and sensory play.
- Supports energizing brain breaks and bedtime routines.
- Essential for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and therapy sessions.
- Easy-to-use, portable, and travel-friendly with a secure ring.
- Helpful for kids with autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities.
Pros:
- Directly addresses emotional regulation and focus.
- Versatile for various settings: home, school, therapy.
- Clear, step-by-step instructions are easy for all ages.
- Portable design for on-the-go mindfulness.
Cons:
- Fewer poses than some other card sets.
- Ring binding might not be preferred by all users compared to a box.
User Impressions: Therapists, teachers, and parents consistently praise these cards for their effectiveness in helping children regulate their emotions and improve focus. They are particularly valued in calming corners and special education classrooms for their clear guidance and positive impact on sensory regulation. The portability is a big plus for daily use.
See it on Amazon here
7. Learning Resources Alpha Pose Letter Yoga, Social Emotional…
Combine learning the alphabet with physical activity using the Learning Resources Alpha Pose Letter Yoga set. Little ones get to explore guided kids’ yoga poses starting with every letter of the alphabet, transforming traditional flashcards into a movement-filled adventure. The set includes a slow-rise foam sun for focus and comes in a cute tin for easy storage.
Key Features:
- Yoga poses for every letter of the alphabet.
- Movement-filled twist on alphabet flashcards.
- Includes a slow-rise foam sun for focus and centering.
- Helps build social emotional learning (SEL) skills.
- Durable, school-ready materials.
- Cards and sun store inside a cute tin.
Pros:
- Cleverly combines literacy learning with physical activity.
- Engaging way to learn the alphabet and yoga poses simultaneously.
- Promotes calm and focus through the foam sun.
- Convenient storage tin for easy clean-up.
Cons:
- Focuses specifically on alphabet integration, which might not be for everyone.
- The number of actual yoga poses is limited by the alphabet.
User Impressions: Educators and parents love this product for its innovative approach to teaching both literacy and movement. They find it particularly useful for brain breaks and enhancing social-emotional skills in a fun, interactive way. The quality of the cards and the handy storage tin are frequently highlighted.
See it on Amazon here
8. MOLLYBEE KIDS Preschool Yoga Cards for Kids, Set of 40…
Introduce preschoolers to the delightful world of yoga with the MOLLYBEE KIDS Preschool Yoga Cards. This set of 40 unique poses is divided into four exciting activity themes like “Around the World,” “On the Farm,” and “At the Beach,” sparking imagination and encouraging physical activity through themed yoga adventures.
Key Features:
- 40 unique yoga poses across four exciting activity themes.
- Each session consists of 10 poses centered around a theme.
- Promotes mindfulness and motor skills development.
- Durable cardboard cards secured on a resealable plastic ring.
- Ideal for ages 3 and up.
- Convenient for indoor, outdoor play, and easy storage.
Pros:
- Engaging themed adventures captivate young children.
- Develops imagination alongside physical skills.
- Durable and portable design for active little hands.
- Perfectly suited for the preschool age group.
Cons:
- Themes might dictate the types of poses, limiting pure pose variety.
- Ring format might not be preferred by all for quick access to specific cards.
User Impressions: Parents and preschool teachers are thrilled with the themed approach of these cards, noting how it makes yoga much more imaginative and appealing for young children. They praise the cards for their durability and how effectively they promote motor skills, flexibility, and a sense of calm in busy preschoolers.
See it on Amazon here
9. Go Go Yoga for Kids: Yoga Lessons for Children: Teaching…
For parents and educators looking to structure engaging yoga sessions for children, “Go Go Yoga for Kids: Yoga Lessons for Children” is an invaluable resource. This book provides clear, actionable guidance on teaching yoga to kids, offering lesson plans and creative ideas to make every session fun and beneficial, making it a fantastic tool for integrating the best yoga for kids into daily life.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive guide for teaching yoga to children.
- Provides structured yoga lesson plans.
- Offers creative ideas to make yoga fun and engaging for kids.
- Designed to empower parents and educators.
- Focuses on making yoga accessible and beneficial for young minds and bodies.
Pros:
- Excellent resource for anyone wanting to lead kids’ yoga.
- Offers structured plans, saving preparation time.
- Full of creative and age-appropriate ideas.
- Helps build confidence in teaching yoga to children.
Cons:
- A physical book, so not as interactive as cards or dice.
- Requires the user to interpret and lead the activities.
User Impressions: This book is highly rated by yoga instructors, teachers, and parents who appreciate its practical, easy-to-follow lesson plans. Many mention how it has transformed their ability to lead engaging and effective yoga sessions for children, making them feel more confident and prepared. It’s often called a “must-have” for anyone teaching yoga to kids.
See it on Amazon here
10. Yoga Pretzels: 50 Fun Yoga Activities for Kids & Grownups…
“Yoga Pretzels: 50 Fun Yoga Activities for Kids & Grownups” is a wonderful card deck designed to bring the whole family together for joyful yoga practice. With 50 beautifully illustrated cards, this set offers a delightful way for both children and adults to explore yoga poses and activities, fostering connection, flexibility, and imaginative play in a shared experience.
Key Features:
- 50 beautifully illustrated cards featuring yoga activities.
- Designed for both kids and grown-ups.
- Encourages family interaction and shared yoga practice.
- Focuses on fun, flexibility, and imaginative play.
- Durable card stock for lasting use.
Pros:
- Perfect for family bonding through shared activity.
- Offers a wide variety of poses and activities for all skill levels.
- Engaging illustrations appeal to children.
- Promotes a playful approach to yoga.
Cons:
- Might be less structured than a book for new instructors.
- Cards could get easily misplaced if not kept together.
User Impressions: Families absolutely adore “Yoga Pretzels” for making yoga accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age. Reviewers often highlight how it sparks laughter and connection, turning exercise into a fun family game. The clear visuals and diverse activities are praised for keeping both kids and adults engaged.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga for Kids
Yoga offers so many wonderful benefits for children. Here are some common questions parents often have:
Q1: What are the main benefits of yoga for children?
A: Yoga helps children develop physical strength, flexibility, and balance. Emotionally, it boosts concentration, self-esteem, and can help manage stress and anxiety through mindfulness and breathing techniques. It also encourages creativity and body awareness.
Q2: What age is appropriate to start yoga?
A: Children can start practicing yoga as early as toddlerhood (around 2-3 years old) with simple, playful poses. Structured classes or activities are often most beneficial for kids aged 4 and up, but the key is to keep it fun and age-appropriate.
Q3: How can I make yoga fun and engaging for my child?
A: Incorporate storytelling, animal sounds, and imaginative play. Use props like yoga cards, dice, or themed mats. Keep sessions short and flexible, and remember to always lead by example with a playful attitude. Making it a family activity can also boost engagement!
Q4: Do kids need special yoga equipment, or can they just use adult gear?
A: While kids can certainly use adult mats, child-sized mats offer better comfort and fit. Products like kids’ yoga cards or dice are specifically designed to make yoga more appealing and understandable for younger minds, often incorporating fun illustrations and games. Non-toxic materials are always a priority for children’s products.
Q5: How often should children practice yoga?
A: Even short, consistent sessions a few times a week can be beneficial. It could be 5-10 minutes daily, or longer 20-30 minute sessions a couple of times a week. The most important thing is consistency and making it an enjoyable part of their routine, rather than a chore.
Q6: What kind of yoga poses are best for children?
A: Poses inspired by animals and nature, like Downward Dog, Cat-Cow, Tree Pose, and Lion’s Breath, are often big hits. Poses that encourage balance, stretching, and gentle inversions are also great. The focus should be on safe movement and fun, not perfect alignment.
Q7: Can yoga help kids with conditions like anxiety or ADHD?
A: Absolutely! Yoga can be incredibly helpful for children with anxiety or ADHD. The breathing exercises and mindfulness practices taught in yoga can help regulate emotions, improve focus, reduce hyperactivity, and provide a calming outlet for excess energy. Many therapy sessions now incorporate yoga as a tool for self-regulation.
Q8: Is it safe for kids to do yoga without professional instruction?
A: Yes, with the right resources, kids can safely practice yoga at home. Products like yoga cards and books designed for children often provide clear, safe instructions. Always ensure your child has enough space, wears comfortable clothes, and listens to their body. For more complex poses or specific needs, seeking guidance from a certified kids’ yoga instructor is recommended.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Yoga for Kids
Introducing your child to yoga is a wonderful gift that keeps on giving, fostering physical health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Whether you opt for a vibrant, grippy mat, engaging yoga cards, or a playful dice game, there are plenty of fantastic options to make yoga an exciting part of your child’s life. The best yoga for kids is ultimately about finding what resonates with your child, encouraging them to move, breathe, and have fun. So go ahead, find the perfect tool, and watch your little yogi blossom!