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Physical Education

Animal Yoga

Overview

Children move into yoga poses named after animals, holding each one and breathing slowly.

Learning Objective
Children develop flexibility and body awareness through simple animal-themed yoga poses.

Resources needed

  • Flat floor space

Lesson stages

0 / 8 done
  1. 1 Start seated — take three slow deep breaths together.
  2. 2 Cat pose: on hands and knees, arch the back up like a scared cat.
  3. 3 Cow pose: drop the back down, lift the head.
  4. 4 Dog pose: on hands and feet, push hips up to make a triangle shape.
  5. 5 Cobra: lie flat, push upper body up with straight arms.
  6. 6 Child's pose: sit back on heels, stretch arms forward on the floor.
  7. 7 Tree pose: stand on one foot, other foot against the ankle or knee, arms up.
  8. 8 End seated — three slow deep breaths.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Children name their own animal pose and teach it.
  • Flow through the sequence slowly with music.
  • Pairs mirror each other's poses.
More information

Name the animal and demonstrate — no explanation needed. Use slow, calm voice throughout. Breathing cues: breathe in through the nose, out through the mouth.

All poses can be modified for seated positions. Focus on the breath and stillness rather than the perfect shape.

Are children holding poses still rather than rushing through? Are they breathing slowly and staying focused?

No equipment needed. Grass or soil surface is fine for all poses.

Children often hold their breath during difficult poses. Remind them: keep breathing — if you can't breathe, ease off the stretch.

Yoga develops flexibility, body awareness, and self-regulation. Animal-themed poses are highly engaging for young children.

Activity details
Primary Easy 15–20 minutes no prep Whole Class, Solo Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Yoga Flexibility Mindfulness