When looking at options for Yoga certification courses, it’s important that you are taught by an experienced instructor. There are unique techniques in the Yoga teacher certification process that make this practice safe and engaging for children. (see How do I choose a Yoga class for my child? in the article “Yoga for Kids: A Good Idea?” by Mayo Clinic Staff).

How Do I Get Certified?

We have three different types of certification available.

1. 95-hour Children’s Yoga Specialty Training is intended for -

• Yoga teachers who wish to specialize in teaching Yoga to children.  The 95-hour program gives you the specialized tools and techniques for making Yoga engaging, effective and safe for kids of all ages. Once completed you will have the necessary training required to register with Yoga Alliance as a Registered Children's Yoga Teacher (RCYT).  You must also complete 30 hours of teaching after you are certified before you can register.

OR

• Pediatric and other professionals who wish to augment their experience and expertise with the tools and techniques of Yoga.

OR

• Anyone who is interested in learning to teach Yoga to children.  You do NOT have to be part of a certification program or have any prior certification to participate in this training.

   The Children's Specialty Yoga training is a 95-hour program consisting of:

• 90 Contact Hours (classroom hours in the physical presence of a faculty member)
• An at-home assignment comprising 5 non-contact hours

2. Therapeutic Yoga for Children - Advanced Teacher Training

• This is advanced training and previous experience is required.

The Therapeutic Yoga for Children certification is an all-inclusive 50-hour intensive training retreat.

3. GFY@Home is a mentored self-study program.  This program is intended for:

• Yoga teachers who already have training in adult Yoga and are looking to learn techniques specifically for children.
• It is also suitable for anyone who has a basic understanding of Yoga and at least a year of personal practice. Including:
  • Parents
  • Educators
  • Pediatric healthcare professionals
  • Social workers
  • Daycare providers
  • Anyone who cares for/about children

   GFY@Home is not recommended for anyone new to the practice of Yoga.

   A certificate of completion will be given to those who complete the following
   requirements:

• All questions and guided practices found in 6 chapters of the Practice section of the Study Guide.
• A 10-day sample of your 40-day practice journal.
• Session reports from 10 Yoga classes you have planned and taught in the community.
• A mission statement clarifying your intentions to share what you have learned with children and families.

Please note that the self-study approach does not allow for the required direct contact hours to become a Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance.

If you're interested in one of these training options, please click on the links to the left for more details.

You do not need to be part of a certification program to benefit from participation in any of the courses offered.