Top Tips For Teaching Yoga In Schools - Tip #36: Create Time For Discussion And Reflection

Hi there,

It’s been a few weeks since I last posted!

The first day of the 2021-2022 school year, my 10th year teaching, is tomorrow, and with it comes a mix of feelings and emotions. There’s a lot happening with COVID that makes this year wildly unpredictable, and that’s unsettling, especially for someone like me who is a planner.

It’s led to a lot of discussion and reflection, both internally and with my other teacher friends, a process that is so important. This week’s tip is all about creating the space and time for discussion and reflection in your classroom, and I hope that as this school year gets underway, discussion and reflection will become an integral part of your class structure, if they aren’t already.

Enjoy, and please leave a comment below if this tip resonates with you in any way.

Tip #36: Create Time for Discussion and Reflection

As you all well know, teaching yoga to kids is incredibly different than teaching adults. Asking kids to flow with you and practice asana consistently for 45 minutes or 60 minutes is a big feat, which is why I always encourage teachers to create time for discussion and reflection during their classes. 

Whether you spend 20 minutes or 60 minutes with your classes, consider adding in time at the beginning, middle or end of class for students to discuss and reflect on their experiences on the mat. 

Why?

Not only does it break up your class and give kids a break, it also gives kids a chance to regain focus and reflect on their experience of the practice.

I like to think of it as answering the “so what?” of yoga, as it allows kids to grasp the benefits of the practice in a different way. And chances are that if they’re able to reflect on their experiences on the mat, they’re more likely to take it seriously and your teachings become not just a fun thing to do, but a tool for them to use. 

Your discussion questions can be as simple as: “What did you notice during your practice today?” or “How do you feel right now?”. 

The objective is not to lead students to an answer, or to get them to say it was life-changing. The objective is to get them to tune into their bodies, minds, and breathes, and notice what came up for them during the practice. You’ll be surprised by the insights and connections students are able to make when they’re given the time and space to reflect. 

Tip Takeaway: Build in at least 5 minutes of time before, during, after, or throughout class for students to reflect on their practice and experiences. Craft 1-2 non-leading questions you’re going to ask your students each class, and stay open to their responses. Allowing students the time to discuss, share, and reflect on their experiences will only enhance your teachings and create a more impactful and meaningful experience for your students, and for you.