CHILDREN are getting more familiar with serpents, eagles, peacocks and lions.

But they are not, as you might expect, doing so with a visit to the zoo — for the animal names are yoga positions.

A national programme to encourage youngsters to get involved in the exercise has been launched at the Bolton Arena.

Yogabugs is open to children aged between two-and-a-half-years-old and seven.

Carol Bradley is the Yogabugs teacher at the Arena and also runs classes in local schools.

She believes there are a lot of benefits for children. She said: “During classes we use relaxing music, calming lavender bags, balance concentration and stories that stretch the imagination and body.

“YogaBugs can help to raise self confidence, develop creativity and co-ordination, resulting in a healthier lifestyle and relaxation.

“In my experience, children who attend can become more rational and even tempered. I want to involve as many children as possible to take advantage of the benefits of Yoga.”

Donna Thomas, aged 30, of Horwich, sends her daughter, Alice, to the classes.

She said: “They offer Alice physical stimulation and have improved her listening and relaxation skills. Carol is an inspiration and the children really respond well to her.”

Yogabugs was established in 2003 and is the largest national yoga programme for children, with classes across the UK.

Classes are held twice a week at the Arena and cost £3.50.

They take place at the LTA gym at the centre on Tuesdays, between 5.30pm and 6.05pm for four to seven-year-olds, and on Thursdays, from 10.45am to 11.20am, for two-and-a-half to four year-olds.

An open day for people interested in finding out more will be held on January 20, between 5pm and 8pm.

Anyone wanting to attend should telephone 01204 488100 or visit yogabugs.com for more information.