Kids are like seeds which we have planted. We have to nourish them so that they grow to be healthy, strong, and loving people. Developmental Enhancement Center
Yoga is unique in its ability to enhance children’s lives through physical and mental stimulation without the fears and pressures of performance. Its incorporation into one’s daily regiment endows individuals with physical and mental fitness, which is becoming more and more necessary for a proper function in our society.
is a wholistic approach to Yoga for kids, parents, and teachers. The goal of the programs is a happy, confident, and compassionate child. Using easy and playful scientific techniques, the development of a healthy body, sound mind, and a spiritual awakening is made possible.
Every segment ties Hatha Yoga, modified for young children, with the specific components of positive development supported by developmentally appropriate activities. Individual segments are theme oriented as outlined below. Segment Topic Segment Topic 1Introduction to Yoga Unity6Principles of Effective Communication 2Individuality / Self7Vision & Perspective 3Sharing8Universe 4Manifestation9Rules, Rights, Responsibility 5Self study: Strength & Flexibility10Play Yoga / Pantomime Ten-Segment Yoga-Based Program
Breathe to unlock energy and vitality Stretchto tone up the body Workoutto develop suppleness and strength Relaxto release tension to keep the body healthy Chantto experience good vibrations Meditateto be calm, peaceful, and control thoughts Interactto share and to make friends Yoga Teaches How to
Each Segment Begins With Opening Topic introduction and discussion Proper breathing practice Eye exercises Gentle stretching
Segment Topic Reflection in a Group Mandala Children reflect upon the topic by creating images -- expressing their feelings through a variety of shapes and colors on their own pie-shape piece of paper. After finishing, children mix and match their own creations with others making a variety of group whole mandalas, while learning how their Self-expression influences the whole.
Mandala Coloring Mandala is a “Sanskrit” word for “circle” or “center.” Coloring Mandalas is a soothing activity that enhances children’s Inner peace Focus and concentration Imagination and creativity Self-expression
Asana Practice Fun & Games Each Topic is experienced through a practice of Topic-specific asanas (postures) Breathing techniques Relaxation and meditation Having fun with Yoga, children learn the importance of daily practice, proper breathing, and relaxation. Love for Yoga helps them to find inner peace, balance, joy, and love for life.
Fun With Asana 1 st Grade Children at 112 th Street Elementary School
Fun With Asana 2 nd Grade Children at 112 th Street Elementary School
Fun With Asana 3rd Grade Children at 112 th Street Elementary School
Fun With Asana 4 th Grade Children at 112 th Street Elementary School
Children love to practice Yoga while having fun - Indoors or Outdoors - In Pairs or in Groups Pair Boat Walking Wheel Barrel Tree “Forest”Belly Breathing Play Yoga
Sequencing or Vinyasa As children learn all program’s asanas they can use their imagination putting a variety of asanas into their own harmonious sequence or a pantomime story.
Each Segment Ends With Relaxation, a guided meditation, or chanting Review the five food groups Home work assignment review
Relaxation After each Yoga practice, children enjoy a quite moment in Relaxation, a guided meditation or in chanting – ending with Namaste “The light in me bows to the light in you.” It’s a new day….
Five Food Groups Review Children learn through games, songs, and fun activities the essential five food groups and their lighter healthier equivalents the importance of choosing a variety of foods how to eat, what to eat, and how much to eat how to create and follow easy to make recipes Importance of daily exercise Yoga practice makes it easier to crave lighter foods
Home Yoga Assignment Asana practice Topic assignment Making smart food choices Mandala coloring