How to Build a Successful Career as a Children’s Yoga and Mindfulness Teacher

Are you passionate about wellness and working with children? Do you dream of making a meaningful impact while enjoying a flexible, fulfilling career? Becoming a children’s yoga and mindfulness teacher could be your perfect path.

As demand grows for emotional wellbeing support in schools and homes, trained professionals in this field are increasingly sought after. But how do you build a successful and sustainable career in this niche?

In this in-depth guide, we explore the causes driving this career shift, its broader impact, and practical steps you can take to thrive in the world of children’s yoga and mindfulness.

Why Children’s Yoga and Mindfulness Are in Demand

1. Rising Mental Health Concerns in Children

According to the NHS, one in five children aged 7 to 16 in the UK now experience a probable mental health disorder. Anxiety, behavioural challenges, and emotional dysregulation are on the rise - fuelled by social media, post-pandemic effects, and academic pressure.

Mindfulness and yoga provide proven tools to help children self-regulate, build resilience, and cultivate focus and compassion.

2. Government and School Initiatives

Increased awareness has led to government-backed schemes like the Wellbeing for Education Return programme and a push for mindfulness practices in schools. Many nurseries and primary schools now actively seek external providers for yoga and wellbeing classes.

3. The Shift Toward Holistic Education

Parents and educators are placing greater value on nurturing the “whole child” - emotionally, mentally, and physically. This shift has opened doors for holistic practitioners in early years, SEN settings, and beyond.

Common Challenges Faced by Aspiring Teachers

1. Lack of Clear Career Pathways

Unlike mainstream teaching, the children’s yoga industry lacks a universal career blueprint. Many hopefuls are unsure where to begin or how to grow.

2. Limited Business Knowledge

Yoga teacher training often skips the business side of things - such as pricing, marketing, and school partnerships - leaving practitioners struggling to secure steady income.

3. Underestimating the Skills Required

Working with children, especially those with additional needs, requires more than knowing yoga poses. Classroom management, age-appropriate language, and safeguarding knowledge are essential.

How to Build a Thriving Career: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Get Accredited Training

Look for a Yoga Alliance-accredited course tailored to children’s yoga and mindfulness. Ideally, the training should cover:

• Age-specific techniques (babies to teens)

• Mindfulness activities and storytelling

• SEN adaptations and inclusive teaching

• Behaviour and classroom management

• Safeguarding and child protection

👉 Explore BEAM ACADEMY's accredited training options for Early Years, SEN, and Mindfulness.

Step 2: Define Your Niche

You’ll stand out more if you specialise. Consider:

• Early Years Yoga (ages 2–7)

• SEN & Neurodiverse Yoga

• Teen Mindfulness

• Parent & Child Classes

This clarity will guide your branding and help you attract your ideal clients.

Step 3: Build Real-World Experience

Volunteer, shadow other teachers, or run free taster classes at:

• Local nurseries or schools

• Community centres

• Parent groups

• Charities supporting mental health or autism

Experience is key - both for confidence and credibility.

Step 4: Create a Business Foundation

To build a career that’s profitable and sustainable, you’ll need to think like an entrepreneur. Focus on:

• Setting fair prices for classes and packages

• Building relationships with schools and nurseries

• Marketing via social media, local networking, and a website

• Creating resources like lesson plans or digital products

Step 5: Join a Supportive Network

Whether it's a Facebook group, a coaching programme, or regular CPD workshops, connecting with others helps you stay inspired and informed.

Success Stories

One graduate of BEAM ACADEMY’s SEN training, Sarah, now teaches weekly classes in three London schools, supporting children with autism through movement, breath, and story-led yoga adventures. “It’s the most rewarding work I’ve ever done,” she says.

Another practitioner, Amrit, began offering after-school mindfulness clubs. Word spread quickly - within six months, she had a waiting list and began training other teachers under her brand.

Their common thread? A blend of expert training, strong business acumen, and a deep passion for children’s wellbeing.

Solutions for Long-Term Growth

• Invest in Continued Professional Development (CPD): Stay up to date with the latest research in child psychology, trauma-informed practices, and neurodiversity.

• Create Scalable Offers: Consider digital courses, YouTube content, or downloadable resources to diversify income.

• Collaborate with Schools: Offer in-school programmes aligned with the PSHE curriculum or pupil premium funding goals.

• Measure Impact: Collect testimonials, track emotional outcomes, and use data to support your value in schools.

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to become a children’s yoga teacher in the UK?

There is no legal requirement, but schools and parents favour those with accredited training (such as Yoga Alliance or CACHE), DBS clearance, and safeguarding certification.

Can I make a full-time income from teaching children’s yoga?

Yes - with the right training, business setup, and client base, many practitioners work full-time by combining school classes, private sessions, and online products.

How is children’s yoga different from adult yoga?

It’s more dynamic, playful, and story-based = often combining movement with music, breathwork, games, and imagination to engage younger minds.

Do I need insurance to teach children’s yoga?

Absolutely. Public liability and professional indemnity insurance are vital when working with children, especially in school settings.

Your Dream Career Starts Here

The world needs more calm, mindful, and resilient children - and you could be the one to guide them.

By combining expert training, practical experience, and a clear business strategy, you can create a meaningful, flexible, and rewarding career as a children’s yoga and mindfulness teacher.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or wellness enthusiast ready for a career pivot, the opportunity has never been brighter.

Take the Next Step

🌟 Join BEAM ACADEMY’s next teacher training cohort and unlock your dream career in children’s wellbeing.
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💬 Have questions or want to share your journey? Leave a comment below!