Yoga Helps Kids Build Self-Control—And Why Schools Need It Now

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A recent New York Times piece highlighted a key insight: self-control isn’t about gritting your teeth—it’s a skill that can be nurtured. When kids learn to pause, breathe, and redirect their attention, they strengthen the very muscles of willpower. Yoga is one of the simplest, most effective ways to help kids practice this skill daily.

Through mindful breathing, balancing poses, and relaxation practices, yoga helps children:

• Pause before reacting when emotions run high.
• Build focus by paying attention to breath and body.
• Strengthen resilience when facing challenges at school or home.

These skills translate into better classroom behavior, stronger learning outcomes, and healthier relationships.

The State of San Francisco Schools

A recent Neighbors for a Better San Francisco poll shows just how much these tools are needed. Trust in the district is shaken:

• Only 9% of San Franciscans think SFUSD is moving in the right direction.
• Among public school parents, just 8% agree, while 51% say the district is headed in the wrong direction.

Parents want schools to return to basics:

• 73% prioritize improving academic performance for all students.
• 66% want stronger literacy and math outcomes.
• 52% seek expanded access to college and career pathways.

On ethnic studies, most parents support the state’s one-semester requirement, with goals of cultural awareness (49%), understanding U.S. history (49%), and preparing students for a diverse society (47%). Still, major concerns remain about consistency (63%), displacement of advanced classes (63%), and transparency (61%).

Looking Beyond the District: New Models for Education

Given these challenges, families are seeking alternatives that combine academic excellence with emotional well-being. Programs like Coherence Education offer a fresh model—integrating project-based learning with emotional intelligence and mindfulness. By cultivating self-control, curiosity, and resilience, this approach prepares students not just for tests, but for life.

Bottom line: With trust in traditional systems faltering, schools must return to proven fundamentals—while also equipping kids with tools like yoga to navigate stress, strengthen self-control, and thrive in today’s complex world.