Pilates for Kids: Supporting Hypermobility, ADHD and Anxiety Through Movement
Pilates isn’t just for adults—it’s a powerful tool to help children build strength, confidence and body awareness. At NeuroPilates Method, we offer specialised Pilates programs for kids with hypermobility, ADHD, and anxiety, using movement as a foundation for improved physical and emotional wellbeing.
What is Pilates for Children?
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on:
Core strength
Postural control
Flexibility
Balance
Mindful, controlled movement
For children, Pilates can be playful, engaging, and adapted to suit individual needs. It’s particularly effective for children who may find team sports overwhelming or have physical differences that affect participation in typical activities.
Pilates for Kids with Hypermobility
Children with joint hypermobility may experience:
Muscle weakness
Poor posture
Joint pain or fatigue
Difficulty with motor coordinationHow Pilates helps:
Strengthens muscles that stabilise the joints
Improves core control and posture
Enhances body awareness (proprioception)
Reduces injury risk through controlled, low-impact movement
Builds confidence in everyday movement and play
Our clinical Pilates programs are designed to support rather than stretch already mobile joints, ensuring children develop strength and stability in a safe and structured way.
Pilates for Kids with ADHD
Children with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) may struggle with focus, hyperactivity, and emotional regulation. Pilates provides a structured yet calming environment that helps children:
Improve concentration through breath and body awareness
Learn to move with intention and control
Reduce restlessness through purposeful movement
Gain confidence in their bodies
We tailor sessions to each child’s needs, incorporating games, visuals, and props to keep them engaged while reinforcing key movement patterns and regulation strategies.
Pilates for Kids with Anxiety
Many children with anxiety experience:
Muscle tension
Restlessness or fidgeting
Shallow breathing
Difficulties with emotional regulation
Pilates can support anxious children by:
Encouraging deep, calming breathing
Releasing physical tension
Promoting mindfulness through movement
Providing a predictable, supportive environment
Improving body confidence and emotional self-awareness
What to Expect in a Kids’ Pilates Session
At NeuroPilates Method, each child begins with an individual assessment to understand:
Their movement strengths and challenges
Any behavioural or sensory needs
Personal goals or family concerns
From there, we design a personalised program that may include:
Core strengthening
Balance and coordination activities
Breathwork and mindfulness
Functional movement skills to support daily activities
Sessions are delivered in a fun, supportive environment using kid-friendly language, props, and interactive games. We offer:
One-on-one sessions for individual support
Small group classes (maximum 2 kids) in a calm, inclusive setting
Our Approach: Holistic and Evidence-Based
Our paediatric Pilates services are grounded in research from:
Paediatric exercise physiology
Neurodevelopment and neuroplasticity
Sensory integration and emotional regulation
We work closely with families and collaborate with other allied health professionals—such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists—to ensure a consistent and coordinated approach.
Pilates: More Than Just Exercise
Pilates is more than movement—it’s a therapeutic tool that builds a child’s sense of control, safety, and confidence in their body. Whether your child experiences:
Fatigue or instability from hypermobility
Focus and energy regulation challenges from ADHD
Tension and worry related to anxiety
—our programs can support them to feel strong, calm and capable.
Want to Learn More?
We’re here to help your child thrive through movement. Contact NeuroPilates Method to find out more about our paediatric Pilates programs for children with hypermobility, ADHD, and anxiety.
