Top 10 Body-Based Warm-Ups for a Preschool Yoga Class (With Props Kids Love)

Before preschoolers move into yoga poses, their bodies need a chance to wake up first.

Warm-ups in kids yoga are about movement, activation, coordination, and playful preparation. They help children transition from free play or circle time into intentional movement while warming muscles, joints, and attention.

Here are my top 10 favourite preschool yoga warm-ups, all using simple props that increase engagement and prepare little bodies for yoga.

1. Parachute Waves & Lifts

Prop: Kids play parachute
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Children hold the edge of the parachute and make small waves, big waves, and gentle overhead lifts.

Why it works:
• Warms shoulders and arms
• Engages the core
• Encourages teamwork and rhythm

2. Scarf Reach & Toss

Prop: Juggling scarves
👉 Shop juggling scarves for kids on Amazon

Toss scarves up, reach high to catch them, and bend low to scoop them off the floor.

Why it works:
• Warms arms, shoulders, and legs
• Improves coordination
• Encourages full-body movement

3. Ball Roll & Crawl

Prop: Soft playground ball
👉 Shop soft playground balls on Amazon

Roll the ball forward, crawl after it, and bring it back.

Why it works:
• Activates shoulders and core
• Prepares wrists for weight-bearing
• Builds strength and coordination

4. Hula Hoop Step-Ins

Prop: Hula hoops
👉 Shop hula hoops for kids on Amazon

Step in, step out, jump over, or walk around the hoops.

Why it works:
• Warms hips and legs
• Supports balance and coordination
• Builds spatial awareness

5. Animal Walk Path

Prop: Poly spots / floor markers
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Create a simple path and move between spots using animal walks.

Why it works:
• Strengthens arms and shoulders
• Activates the core
• Prepares bodies for yoga poses

6. Bean Bag Balance Walk

Prop: Bean bags
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Balance bean bags on the head, shoulders, or hands while walking slowly.

Why it works:
• Improves posture and focus
• Warms stabilizing muscles
• Encourages controlled movement

7. Tunnel Crawl

Prop: Pop-up play tunnel
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Crawl through the tunnel one at a time.

Why it works:
• Strengthens arms and shoulders
• Engages the core
• Builds confidence and coordination

8. Ribbon Reach & Sweep

Prop: Dance ribbons
👉 Shop dance ribbons for kids on Amazon

Draw big shapes in the air and sweep ribbons low across the floor.

Why it works:
• Warms shoulders and arms
• Encourages large range of motion
• Adds visual engagement

9. Foam Dice Movement Rolls

Prop: Large foam dice
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Roll the dice and perform simple movements like jumping, marching, or reaching.

Why it works:
• Warms the full body
• Adds structure and excitement
• Keeps transitions smooth

10. Parachute Popcorn

Prop: Parachute + lightweight balls
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Shake the parachute gently to bounce balls up and down.

Why it works:
• Activates arms and shoulders
• Encourages cooperative play
• Creates joyful energy before yoga

How Long Should Warm-Ups Be?

For preschool yoga, aim for 5–8 minutes. Warm-ups should feel playful, purposeful, and dynamic. When bodies are warm, yoga poses feel easier and more accessible.

Final Teacher Tip

Think of warm-ups as the bridge between play and yoga. Props help children move confidently, reduce classroom management challenges, and make yoga inviting from the very first minute.

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