Integrate Yoga and Art for Children with Autism

Integrating Yoga and Art for Children with Autism

When we think of children’s education and wellness, we’re often quick to separate subjects like art, physical education, and mindfulness into different boxes.

However, what if we could create a harmonious blend that not only fosters a love for learning but also supports the unique needs of neurodivergent children? This is where the fusion of yoga and art becomes a transformative tool.

I’m excited to introduce you to Cindy Ingram, founder of Art Class Curator and author of Art Is About Being Whole (affiliate). In the interview below, we talk about joining these two disciplines, particularly for learners on the autism spectrum.

3 Ways to Integrate Yoga and Art for Children with Autism

Let’s explore how to bring this synergy of yoga and art into your classroom or home to enrich the experiences of your neurodivergent learners:

1. Create Personal Connections with Art

First off, it’s all about making art mean something special to each child. Cindy talks about using what children already love to make art meaningful and relevant for them.

For example, is your little one wild about mermaids? Imagine throwing a mermaid theme into your yoga session! Or maybe you have another who can’t stop talking about Minecraft? Encourage them to build something amazing right after they nail Downward-Facing Dog. It’s all about connecting those dots to keep learning fun and personal.

And don’t forget, no two children on the autism spectrum are the same. Some might enjoy getting their hands messy with paints, while others would rather gaze at cool colors and shapes. Mix it up—meet the children where they are and engage them in their special interests, sensory preferences, and learning styles.

3 Tips to Integrate Art into your Kids Yoga Classes: Nurturing Neurodivergent Learners with Autism (Interview) — Credit: Art Class Curator

2. Respect Unique Traits of Children with Autism

In the interview below, Cindy talks about respecting the uniqueness of neurodivergent learners, which will then create inclusive and compassionate learning environments.

For example, some children need to move regularly, some are uncomfortable with forced eye contact, and some need personal space. Cindy says we need to move away from the “sit still, eyes here” approach and give children the freedom to wiggle and explore how they feel best in their yoga space.

And let’s not forget about our girls on the autism spectrum who might not be showing signs of neurodiversity but may struggle silently with anxiety or depression. Art can be a secret superhero that helps them share what’s going on inside without having to find the words. This is yet another reminder that the yoga practice for children isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience.

3. Tap into Art as a Tool for Self-Discovery

Cindy Ingram shares how art helped her reframe her understanding of herself, discovering the transformative power of art. Encourage learners to experience art as more than just a subject—see it as a reflection of their inner world.

For example, children could sketch out how a yoga pose makes them feel. Or invite children to interpret artwork during relaxation periods in yoga class or as part of their yoga journaling activities.

Let them explore different materials and mediums, and express freely what they perceive and feel. Use stories from artists or works of art as analogies in yoga stories, incorporating both physical movement and emotional literacy.

GET YOUR 3 FREE POSTERS HERE!

Free yoga posters, free yoga printables for kids | Kids Yoga Stories

Receive our most popular yoga posters here absolutely FREE!

Click Here to Get Your Posters

Merging art with yoga isn’t just adding another item to the day. It’s creating a safe space where every child, no matter how their brain is wired, can explore, express, and connect with themselves and the world around them. As we’ve seen from Cindy Ingram’s inspirational insights, embracing neurodiversity within this blend of yoga and art can unlock incredible potential. By integrating art into kids yoga classes thoughtfully, we’re not just teaching them yoga poses or art techniques. We’re guiding our children to be more self-aware, accepting, and confident in their own way.