Curly Yoga Poses for Kids: Building Strength, Calm and Body Awareness
30.03.26
When children move, stretch, and explore their bodies, they’re not just playing, they’re learning. One of the simplest and most effective ways to support this development is through kids yoga, where movement, breath, and imagination come together.
In this post, we’re exploring a fun and engaging theme from Hanu’s latest video, curly yoga poses. These are poses where the body gently curls, folds, or tucks in. They’re perfect for helping children slow down, feel safe, and connect with their bodies in a calm and playful way. You can watch the full video below and follow along with your child.
Why Curly Poses Are Great in Kids Yoga
Curly poses encourage children to bring their bodies inward. This has a naturally calming effect and helps children feel grounded and secure.
Practising these poses regularly can help children:
- Develop core strength and coordination
- Learn to slow down and regulate their energy
- Feel safe and calm through gentle movement
- Build confidence by exploring new shapes and positions
These poses are especially useful during quiet time, after busy play, or as part of a bedtime routine.
Egg Pose
Why it’s great for kids
Egg Pose is a simple, curled position where children hug their knees into their chest. It helps create a sense of safety and comfort while gently strengthening the core.
Benefits
- Encourages a feeling of calm and security
- Strengthens tummy and core muscles
- Improves balance when held upright
- Helps children connect with their breath
How to try Egg Pose
-
Sit on the floor with knees bent.
-
Hug both knees into the chest.
-
Wrap arms around the legs.
-
Gently lift the feet off the ground if possible.
-
Hold and breathe slowly.
Encourage children to imagine they are a small, cosy egg resting in the jungle.
Boat Pose
Why it’s great for kids
Boat Pose is a fun balance pose that builds strength while keeping the body in a slightly curled shape. It challenges coordination and focus.
Benefits
- Strengthens the core and hip muscles
- Improves balance and coordination
- Encourages concentration and focus
- Builds confidence through challenge
How to try Boat Pose
-
Sit with knees bent and feet on the floor.
-
Lean back slightly, keeping the chest lifted.
-
Lift the feet off the ground.
-
Extend arms forward for balance.
-
Hold the position and breathe steadily.
Children can imagine they are a little boat floating gently on the water.
Forward Fold
Why it’s great for kids
Forward Fold is a gentle way to stretch the legs and back while allowing the body to curl inward. It is both calming and effective for flexibility.
Benefits
- Stretches hamstrings and lower back
- Helps release tension in the body
- Encourages relaxation and stillness
- Supports flexibility and movement
How to try Forward Fold
-
Stand tall with feet together or hip-width apart.
-
Slowly bend forward from the hips.
-
Let the arms hang down toward the ground.
-
Relax the head and neck.
-
Hold for a few breaths.
Encourage children to curl up like a tiny seed resting in the soil.
Child’s Pose
Why it’s great for kids
Child’s Pose is one of the most calming poses in kids yoga. It allows the body to fully relax while gently stretching the back and hips.
Benefits
- Promotes relaxation and calm
- Gently stretches the back and hips
- Helps regulate breathing
- Creates a safe, restful position
How to try Child’s Pose
-
Kneel on the floor with knees together or slightly apart.
-
Sit back onto the heels.
-
Lower the chest down toward the ground.
-
Rest the forehead on the mat.
-
Stretch arms forward or rest them by the sides.
This is a great pose to return to whenever children need a moment of calm.
Supporting Calm and Confidence Through Kids Yoga
Curly poses are more than just shapes, they help children understand how to move inward, slow down, and feel safe in their bodies. Through kids yoga, children learn that movement can be both energising and calming.
By practising poses like Egg, Boat, Forward Fold, and Child’s Pose, children begin to:
- Recognise how their body feels
- Build strength and flexibility
- Develop focus and patience
- Feel more confident in their abilities
Explore More with Hanu Moves
At Hanu Moves, we make yoga fun, accessible, and meaningful for children. Through story-led movement, engaging videos, and thoughtfully designed products, children can explore yoga in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.
Whether it’s building strength, improving flexibility, or finding calm, Hanu is there to guide every step of the journey.
Visit www.hanumoves.com to discover more kids yoga resources, videos, and adventures.
Hanu and the Stormy Sky Yoga Mat & Storybook Bundle
Hanu Moves Childrens Yoga Mat