In recent posts, we’ve discussed the benefits of postpartum yoga and even learned a yoga sequence for new moms. Over the past five years, I've gotten to teach prenatal, postnatal, and kids yoga classes in New York City and Los Angeles. During that time, I've kept a running list of the hilarious / adorable / weird / poignant things I've heard in my kids classes. Today, I’m opening up the vault to share those gems with you. Behold, my top twenty favorite kids yoga moments: 20. As a teacher, I’ve noticed that kids are obsessed with finding out everything about you. During my first teaching job in New York City, this five-year-old girl called me out in front of the class, asking the following spitfire questions: “How old are you? How many kids do you have? Are you married?” After I told her my age (to which she gasped in horror), that I wasn’t married, and didn’t have kids yet, she handed me a book she’d gotten at the school book fair, entitled How To Fall in Love. 19. In one of my younger groups, the kids and I went into Downward-Facing Dog pose and started barking like puppies. For whatever reason, their barking kept growing and growing until the kids were basically howling and I had to convince everyone that the puppies were sleepy and needed to take a nap. 18. Often I’ve had older and younger siblings in class together. One day, my favorite rambunctious three-year-old bounded into class, as she often did, and her six-year-old sister turned to me with the following request, “Please turn off the music. She gets all cracked up.” 17. A four-year-old boy announced, out of the blue, “I am a dinosaur.” 16. One day the kids started rolling themselves up in their yoga mats, so I went around the room and they told me what type of food they were: a burrito, taco, dumpling, or sushi roll. It was my job to run around and re-roll anyone who’d come undone. It was quite a workout. 15. This four-year-old boy ran in circles like a maniac as I implored, “Brian! Brian, will you please find your mat?” After ignoring me forever, he eventually turned around and said, “It's Brydan.” 14. In addition to wanting to know how old you are, kids are also obsessed with tattoos. While examining the mermaid on my shoulder, a six-year-old told me, “My dad wanted to get a tattoo, but he’s too busy.” 13. I asked my kids in Los Angeles, “What do you love about spring?” and a six-year-old girl answered, “It’s not too hot and it’s not too cold, so I can wear a noodle dress.” 12. I also asked everyone, “Where’s your favorite place to go?” and a four-year-old told me, “Outer space.” 11. One day a ten-year-old girl revealed, “I love David Bowie. I mean I have a CRUSH on him.” I sighed, “I know, me too.” 10. While seated in our opening circle, I found myself asking a three-year-old, “Hey Elsie, could you do me a favor and take your foot out of your mouth?" 9. I drew a picture of Peter Pan and this five-year-old critiqued, "That just looks like a girl in pajamas, but you're getting close." 8. A four-year-old boy turned to me, beaming, and said, “Legoland is SO beautiful.” 7. These rad nine-year-old girls kept putting Harry Potter spells on each other and it was getting a little heated so I told them, “Listen! You can do spells in class, but no yelling!” I convinced them to create a whole Harry Potter-related yoga sequence and they were VERY into it. 6. A few six-year-olds tried to teach me how to do cartwheels properly. They had a lot of critiques regarding my form. I was very sore the next day. 5. This eight-year-old and I were talking about how much we loved mermaids and she sighed, “I keep trying to do these mermaid spells I found online, but they never work.” 4. A little girl drew me a picture of a zombie and said, “My zombie is a nice zombie. She eats plants. Her name is Laina.” 3. I was informed by a six-year-old in Los Angeles that mermaid tails have been banned in the United States, but you can get them in Hawaii. 2. This one five-year-old girl used to wear her mat like a cape and say she was Dracula, so one day we did yoga for an entire twenty minutes as Dracula. 1. I told the class I was going home to see my family for the weekend and a six-year-old girl said to me, “When you grow up you have to move away and live in a house or a cabinet. It's kind of sad, but you'll get used to it.” photo credit @delikaist via Twenty20
Please use caution when attempting any of the carries, exercise or activities highlighted on this blog, social media or any other content channels. Please use common sense and caution when using a baby carrier. You should consult a physician before starting any diet or exercise program. For more information, see our Disclaimer.
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!