Library offers free yoga classes for kids at Lake Branch

Mentor Public Library is teaming with Happy Me Kids Yoga for two free children’s yoga classes at its Lake Branch on July 8, giving families a no-cost way into a practice that can otherwise mean studio fees and their own gear. One session is set for children ages 3 to 6 with a grownup, and a second class is planned for ages 7 to 12.

The classes are being held at the Lake Branch, 5642 Andrews Rd. in Mentor-on-the-Lake, and registration is required because space is limited. Families can register through mentorpl.org or by calling the Lake Branch at 440-257-2512.

That access piece is doing a lot of the work here. The library is providing the room, the outreach and the scheduling, while Happy Me Kids Yoga brings the instruction. Mentor Public Library says registration for most programs opens 14 days before the program, which puts June 24 on the calendar as the opening day for this one.

The setup also lowers a practical barrier. The library will provide yoga mats, though participants may bring their own, which matters for parents deciding whether a children’s class is worth the hassle. For a family that is curious about yoga but not ready to buy mats, sign up for a studio series or commit to a longer program, the branch is making the first step easier.

The class design goes beyond simple movement. For younger children, the program is built around yoga-pose games, breathing exercises and a guided meditation aimed at helping them build strength, confidence and calm. The older group will focus on mindfulness, movement and self-expression in a format meant to feel fun and empowering rather than formal or intimidating.

Mentor Public Library’s kids programming already includes age-specific offerings, including activities for children ages 6 to 12, so the yoga classes fit a larger pattern of structured family programming rather than a one-off novelty. The Lake Branch itself is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving the branch a steady community role well beyond book lending.

For a public library in 2026, that is the point: the room that usually holds storytimes and homework help is also becoming a place where kids can learn to breathe, balance and settle down for free.