Yoga In My School has invited a number of kids yoga experts to share their favourite yoga prop and how they use it. If you are interested in submitting an article for this series please e-mail donna@yogainmyschool.com.

Amy Bevan (The PranaMama) enjoys using small, smooth, shiny stones in her kids yoga classes. These stones can easily be found at dollar stores, discount garden supply stores and craft stores. They are relatively inexpensive but are one of the heavier yoga props to cart around. ”Magic stones” are a wonderful way to celebrate Earth Day and connect with our planet.

Amy suggests using them in this manner:

While the small, smooth, shiny stones are a great play object for the tactile learner, the larger ones can also benefit kids who have a hard time settling down at night or simply relaxing after a busy activity.

In my pre-school yoga classes, I used these stones during Savasana, or the relaxation phase of class.  Once lying down with their eyes closed, I would lead a guided visualization. (Visit Magic Stones Help Calm Kids for an example.)

I would then pass out a magic stone to each child.  I remind them that this is their magic stone to keep, and by holding it in their hand, they can be transformed to the meadow, and to a feeling of peace and relaxation.  I suggest they can keep it in their pocket, their backpack or by their bedside.   Most kids are thrilled and want to compare theirs to the other children, and immediately share where they plan to keep it.

It’s amazing how a small, simple object can represent rest and relaxation, as well as peace and security, to a child.  You could also make up your own story about the stone and its magic powers.  I gave my own daughter a magic stone during a period of being afraid to go to sleep without one of her parents lying down with her, telling her it was a magic stone that would keep her safe and warm at night, helping her to fall asleep peacefully.  She would hold it tightly in her hand and allow us to leave her at bedtime.  My husband enjoyed more time together, instead of one of us spending the evening in the dark, waiting for her to fall asleep.  Everyone wins!

 Amy Bevan is a freelance writer, local reporter and host of The PranaMama, an online wellness and lifestyle magazine, and frequent contributor to the ChildLight Yoga Blog, The Kids Yoga Resource, as well as certified ChildLight Yoga Instructor and Itsy Bitsy Yoga facilitator.  Amy resides in South Berwick, ME with her husband and two young children.