A youth yoga program developed in Arkansas more than a decade ago has been adopted by extension services in at least 17 states, helping children develop physical fitness and mental wellness skills.
The 4-H Yoga program, created in 2013 by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, uses kid-friendly pose names and activities designed specifically for young participants.
“Yoga is both fun and calming for anyone who participates,” said Rachel Chaney Dillon, extension health program associate and 4-H Yoga program coordinator. “It’s an exciting moment when you accomplish a pose you didn’t think you could do.”
The program originated from a request by a Garland County school counselor seeking help with fifth-grade behavioral issues, according to Jessica Vincent, extension assistant professor of health and obesity prevention.
“It quickly morphed into a whole-health model, incorporating the mind-body connection to manage stress, anxiety, anger and other behavioral aspects,” Vincent said.
Unlike traditional yoga, the 4-H version uses playful names for poses—”Chill Pose” instead of Shavasana, and “Llama” instead of High Lunge—making the practice more accessible and engaging for children.
Amanda Rychtarik, Baxter County extension staff chair, began teaching the program at her local youth center in summer 2024. She said participants consistently reported feeling relaxed after sessions.
“This is such a great mind reset,” Rychtarik said. “Yes, it’s physical, but you also get mental clarity and focus from doing this.”
At a recent two-day training, 25 extension county agents and staff from 14 Arkansas counties received 4-H Yoga certification. Dillon said her goal is to train at least one extension staff member in each of Arkansas’ 75 counties and develop an online course for agents in other states.
States including Georgia, Virginia, Kansas and California have recently contacted Arkansas about receiving training or continuing their 4-H yoga programs.
For more information, visit the 4-H Yoga page or contact your local county extension agent.
