Books to use in class, for children under 8 years old

From Head to Toe by Eric Carle – This is the best book to start a series of classes for young children. The book moves through body parts, inviting the reader to move, asking “Can you do it?” The reader then shouts, “I can do it!”

* All books by Eric Carle are highly recommended and lend themselves well to children’s Yoga classes.

Duck on a Bike by David Shannon – It’s hard to choose favorites, but this may be mine! It’s a funny story and includes many animal poses. Children stay further engaged when asked to practice the “Bike” pose every time they hear the word “bike” in the story.

Where Does the Butterfly Go When it Rains? by May Garelick – Kids love tapping hands on the floor every time they hear the word “rain” along with all the other animal poses in this book.

My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss – Published posthumously and with someone else’s artwork, this book relates colors to moods. Perfect for teaching emotional intelligence.

Each Breath a Smile by Sister Susan – Based on the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, this gentle story can be read in a circle, read along as children practice poses, or my favorite way is to read to the children during Final Rest (Savasana).

Commotion in the Ocean by Giles Andrea – This fun, colorful book takes the reader on a romp through the ocean to meet many marvelous sea creatures.

Play Lightly on the Earth by Jacqueline Horsfall - Amazon’s review: “An easy-to-use nature activity book for younger children, Play Lightly on the Earth weaves basic science concepts into imaginative outdoor play, guiding young readers to think deeply about their place as good Earth citizens.”

Dinosaurs Alive and Well by Marc and Laurene Brown – “A guide to good health.” This family of dinosaurs knows how to be healthy and happy.

Books to Use in Class, for Children ages 8-12 years old

Animalia by Graeme Base – Appropriate for all ages, this is a feast for the eyes as well as a way to jumpstart creative writing projects based on alliteration. Each page is the letter of the alphabet. An extravagant alliteration is supported by an astounding array of images for each letter.

The Great Kapok Tree by Lynne Cherry - "Exceptionally colorful, bright and full of life...Effectively makes specific the larger story of endangered rain forests by taking the problem one creature at a time."

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein – A poignant story of giving and receiving. This is a great conversation starter for these concepts.

Hey, Little Ant by Philip & Hannah Hoose – This book teaches empathy to those wanting to smoosh ants.

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss – A classic book on the importance of conservation. Includes trees and an unlikely hero.

Everyone’s Mandala Coloring Book by Monique Mandali – Blank templates children can color.

Be The Boss of Your Stress by Timothy Culbert, M.D. and Rebecca Kajander, C.P.N.P. – Director of the first and largest Complementary Health Clinic for children in North America, Dr. Culbert has written several books for and about children’s health. Check out his whole series of “Be The Boss of…” books.

Child’s Play by Wah!

World Playground 2 compiled by Putumayo

A Game Of Chants by Guru Singh with Seal and Friends

Savasana by Wah!

Happy & Cozy by Shakta Kaur Khalsa

All albums by Snatam Kaur