One of the best ways to teach compassion and to build more empathetic kids is to re-frame the world from the perspective of the viewer. Children are naturally curious, open-minded, and flexible in regards to integrating new information and differences among people. They generally make less of a fuss about how things are “supposed” to be because their expectations are not the same as an adult’s. Honestly, this is one of my favorite reasons for working with children. They are ready, willing, and enthusiastic about learning.
A lot of people do not realize that learning happens beyond the classroom in other settings and within various experiences. Again, this is one of the best “pros” to teaching Kids Yoga. There is such a wealth of material and time to introduce a multitude of concepts to these young people. With the holidays approaching, it is the most opportune time to present information about the season and how it houses many diverse holidays for people around the world. The advantage? With yoga, this information can be presented in a fun, unique way that lights up their imaginations and helps them see the similarities between all people, thus building compassion. This creates kids who want to be friends, not people who are fearful of others.
Christmas: The holiday that many of your children will celebrate in Decem
Twas the night before Christmas
When all through the house
Everyone was sitting
Even the mouse!
They sat by the fire
As it crackled and snapped,
Clearing their minds,
Not taking a nap.
The tree stood tall and
glowed in soft light,
the sky was inky
but stars shone bright.
Chests rose and fell
With each breath they took.
Their lungs expanding,
They had to look!
The room smelled of apples
And cinnamon, too.
All thoughts drifted
And a baby said “coo”.
Bodies were still.
Worry eased and sadness melt.
Minds were free!
They loved the way they felt!
Peace filled their hearts
And happiness the room.
They held hands
As they watched the moon.
The fire was in embers
Providing little light.
They looked at each other and said,
“Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”
Chanukah: Also known as the “The Jewish Festival of Lights”, this Jewish holiday is celebrated over eight days and nights. The menorah is a staple and on the first night of Chanukah, one candle is lit by the shamash candle (this one is the one that lights all the others). Each subsequent night, one more candle is lit until the very last night when all the candles are lit. A fun game/song to play is Yoga Nagila as it is based on a Jewish folk song and encourages people to come together for friendship and fun. Make sure to include a holiday table display with a menorah. For more Kids Yoga with a Jewish twist, check out Yoga Yeladim.
Kwanzaa: A holiday beginning in 1966, Kwanzaa was created to celebrate and honor people of African descent. The core message is of family, community, and culture. This holiday is a way for many 
Diwali: The original “Festival of Lights”, Diwali is celebrated in many areas of Southeast Asia and India. As yoga’s purpose is to reach Nirvana, this holiday celebrates an old sage who is said to have reached enlightenment and peace. The name itself means “lamps in rows”. One of the biggest themes of the holiday is goodness and how goodness always triumphs over evil. Now would be a good time to 
Fill your holiday class(es) with crafts such as paper wreath making, activities that encourage friendship and family relationships such as gathering around the table to share a feast, playing games, and having St. Nick/Jack Frost lead the children in their sun salutations. Have fun and remember that our differences make us special while simultaneously connecting us this holiday season.
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