cybercore
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Russian yoga instructor Lena Fokina would, and a video of her "baby yoga" routine has gone viral -- making many American parents cringe in horror. In the clip, Fokina takes a 2-week-old infant through exercises she calls "dynamic gymnastics."
Parenting blog DadWagon caught up with Fokina, who explained that these exercises are not considered shocking in Russia, where some parents believe that swinging newborns in the air helps develop their strength, reflexes and sense of independence.
But is that claim true?
According to pediatrician David Geller, babies are perfectly capable of developing motor skills without special classes: "Babies get enough exercise as it is doing what they do all day: crawling, walking and playing," he writes.
The American Academy of Pediatrics concurs that stimulation is necessary for newborns but disagrees with Fokina's assertions that physical conditioning exercises will affect future development. The academy also warns that infant exercise may be dangerous for developing bones:
Providing a stimulating environment for an infant's development is extremely important. Environmental deprivation will impede the developmental progress of an infant. There is some evidence that conditioned responses can be elicited in the newborn period. However, there have been no data to suggest that structured programs or the promotion of conditioned responses will advance skills or provide any long-term benefit to normal infants.
The bones of infants are more susceptible to trauma than those of older children and adults. The skeletal system of the child in the first year of life is less than optimally ossified. Infants do not have the strength or reflexes necessary to protect themselves from external forces. The possibility exists that adults may inadvertently exceed the infant's physical limitations by using structured exercise programs.
Moms-to-be in the United States may be familiar with prenatal yoga, which -- if done correctly, after consultation with a doctor -- can be beneficial for health and childbirth preparation. The Prenatal Yoga Center in New York says women can participate in prenatal yoga through the third trimester.
As for newborns, remember that Fokina isn't demonstrating real yoga; her video shows "dynamic gymnastics." Actual baby yoga classes, involving far less strenuous activity, are offered throughout the United States. And it's important to note the minimum age recommendations, which vary by program. At the Prenatal Yoga Center, "Mommy & Me" yoga classes are not recommended until babies are 4 weeks old. Baby yoga instructor Jackie Long's program is designed for infants who can hold their heads up, which typically happens at three to four months.
Here's a look at calmer, gentler baby yoga:
Parenting blog DadWagon caught up with Fokina, who explained that these exercises are not considered shocking in Russia, where some parents believe that swinging newborns in the air helps develop their strength, reflexes and sense of independence.
But is that claim true?
According to pediatrician David Geller, babies are perfectly capable of developing motor skills without special classes: "Babies get enough exercise as it is doing what they do all day: crawling, walking and playing," he writes.
The American Academy of Pediatrics concurs that stimulation is necessary for newborns but disagrees with Fokina's assertions that physical conditioning exercises will affect future development. The academy also warns that infant exercise may be dangerous for developing bones:
Providing a stimulating environment for an infant's development is extremely important. Environmental deprivation will impede the developmental progress of an infant. There is some evidence that conditioned responses can be elicited in the newborn period. However, there have been no data to suggest that structured programs or the promotion of conditioned responses will advance skills or provide any long-term benefit to normal infants.
The bones of infants are more susceptible to trauma than those of older children and adults. The skeletal system of the child in the first year of life is less than optimally ossified. Infants do not have the strength or reflexes necessary to protect themselves from external forces. The possibility exists that adults may inadvertently exceed the infant's physical limitations by using structured exercise programs.
Moms-to-be in the United States may be familiar with prenatal yoga, which -- if done correctly, after consultation with a doctor -- can be beneficial for health and childbirth preparation. The Prenatal Yoga Center in New York says women can participate in prenatal yoga through the third trimester.
As for newborns, remember that Fokina isn't demonstrating real yoga; her video shows "dynamic gymnastics." Actual baby yoga classes, involving far less strenuous activity, are offered throughout the United States. And it's important to note the minimum age recommendations, which vary by program. At the Prenatal Yoga Center, "Mommy & Me" yoga classes are not recommended until babies are 4 weeks old. Baby yoga instructor Jackie Long's program is designed for infants who can hold their heads up, which typically happens at three to four months.
Here's a look at calmer, gentler baby yoga:
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Russian Yoga Instructor Lena Fokina's Controversial "Baby Yoga" In recent years, a video featuring Russian yoga instructor Lena Fokina has stirred significant debate, especially among American parents. The clip showcases her unconventional approach known as "baby yoga," where she performs what she calls "dynamic gymnastics" with infants as young as two weeks old. While Fokina argues these exercises bolster strength, reflexes, and independence in newborns, many viewers have expressed concern and horror at the methods displayed.
Cultural Context
In Russia, practices like Fokina's are reportedly not perceived as alarming. Parents often believe that swinging and manipulating their newborns can enhance physical and mental development. However, pediatricians in the U.S. hold a different perspective on this matter. David Geller, a pediatrician, asserts that infants naturally develop motor skills through regular activities such as crawling and playing, without requiring specialized exercise routines. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that while stimulation is critical for infants, structured exercise routines like those demonstrated by Fokina are unnecessary and potentially harmful. The AAP warns that an infant's bones are especially fragile, leaving them vulnerable to injury.Safe Practices for New Mothers and Infants
In the United States, there are safer alternatives to enhance bonding and physical health among mothers and infants. Programs like "Mommy & Me" yoga classes are tailored specifically for new mothers. These classes typically start when the baby is at least four weeks old, following guidelines set to ensure safety and promote healthy growth. A YouTube video titled "Mom and Baby Yoga Class | Exercising Together!" provides a softer introduction to yoga practices for mothers and their infants. The class emphasizes core strengthening, balance, and breathing exercises designed to help mothers recover from childbirth while also facilitating bonding with their babies in a gentler, supportive environment.Key Features of Baby Yoga Classes:
- Gentle Engagement: Unlike Fokina's rigorous routines, these classes focus on calming movements to encourage bonding and warm interaction rather than extreme physical exertion.
- Flexibility: Classes accommodate the babies’ needs, allowing for breaks to feed or comfort them. The dynamic nature is more about enjoying the experience together rather than pushing physical limits.
- Holistic Support: These sessions provide emotional support for mothers who bond with one another as much as they do with their babies. While the appeal of dynamic techniques is clear to some, the overriding message from health professionals remains that infants thrive through natural movement and love, not forced exercises.
Conclusion
Fokina’s philosophy raises essential questions about parenting styles and the cultural differences in child-rearing techniques. As we progress into 2024, it’s crucial for parents to consider guidelines provided by pediatric health experts when introducing activities for their newborns. How do you feel about the practices like Fokina’s? Have you tried baby yoga or similar classes? Share your thoughts and experiences!