A how-to manual for yoga with kids in classrooms and therapeutic settings.
If you are a parent of a child with special needs or a professional who works with one, you know how challenging it can be for them to sit still, to cope with change, to focus on self-soothing strategies, and to interact successfully with others. For these kids, yoga therapy can provide crucial support. Behavior and focus, strength, flexibility, balance, and self-regulation are all improved through yoga, making it an ideal practice for children on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, sensory processing and emotional/behavioral disorders, and other exceptionalities.
For use in school, at home, or in therapeutic settings, Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and Special Needs is a how-to manual that meets children where they are, providing a yoga therapy “lesson plan” that will engage them; promote play, social interaction, speech, language, and motor development; and enhance their self-esteem. It teaches an array of CreativeRelaxation techniques using posture, breathing, and mindfulness designed specifically for children with autism and special needs. Drawing on her 30 years of yoga therapy experience with children and those who work with them, the author walks readers through yoga strategies that both calm and energize, emphasizing sensory and bodily awareness and the “sacred space” that is so important for these children. Learn the best ways to use your voice and body effectively when working with children; how to minimize distractions and ease transitions; and how to create personalized yoga breaks to enhance independence and avert meltdowns.
Featuring 60 illustrated poses, 89 photos, and 65 lessons, songs, and games, child-friendly instructions are provided for posture, breathing, and mindfulness exercises. All poses and routines include suggested adaptations and precautions for use, and are organized to address specific sensory skills. Current research on the benefits of yoga for health and learning is summarized, and readers learn how, through yoga practice, the brain’s response to stress can be effectively mitigated.
With this book, parents, therapists, and educators alike have the tools to successfully develop a therapeutic yoga program for the very children who can benefit most from it.
60 illustrated poses
Publisher : W. W. Norton & Company; Illustrated edition (August 26, 2013)
Language : English
Hardcover : 336 pages
ISBN-10 : 0393707857
ISBN-13 : 978-0393707854
Item Weight : 2.3 pounds
Dimensions : 8.3 x 1 x 10.3 inches
veronica aguirre –
Excellent
An extremely well-written and organized book with excellent information, research and resources. Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and a special Needs is a must-have for any yoga teacher, regardless of whether or not they teach children/individuals with special needs. This book is an invaluable resource for parents and teachers that work with special needs. One of my favorite/’go-to’ books in my yoga library. Veronica, RYT, MA and educator
RachSF –
Excellent resource for parents as well as educators
This book has been a wonderful addition to our family library. I am not an educator, but a parent, and the teachings and guidance in this book have been very valuable to me in practicing yoga with my preschooler. The book is informative, well-researched and easy to follow. Highly recommend for those who wish to add yoga into the routine of their families’ lives.
pamela –
TucsonYogi
I purchased the ebook. I am sorry I didn’t get the print copy as I think a CD was to come with it. Maybe that would help me with the songs. Other than that, the book is a useful tool that I enjoy very much!
Tonya Palmer –
Great book
Great book and very informative. Will say that unless itâs something youâre very passionate about that some parts of it may make you want to put the book down.
Janie –
Outstanding!
There is an incredible amount of knowledge packed inside the pages of this book!! This is a wonderful tool for children with or without special needs! I would recommend this book to all parents and anyone who is working with children.
Pat –
Excellent
This book is an excellent guide for working with Special needs kids.The exercises are good and the class plans are well thought out.Have used many of the sequences in working with special needs kidswith great results.
Patricia Angerame –
A comprehensive book that demonstrates a great understanding of those with challenges
A comprehensive book that demonstrates a great understanding of those with challenges . It is an important book for anyone working with children. It is clearly written and the information is easily used.
Jennifer –
Not what I was expecting
Very well-written. Very detailed, in-depth examination. Yes, it was ultimately helpful. However, I purchased this in an attempt to work with my own, autistic daughter. I have a little background in yoga, teaching, and working with special needs children. I found the sections describing various disabilities and the history of yoga unnecessary. This seemed to be geared more toward an OT specialist with no knowledge of yoga, or perhaps someone who has no knowledge of yoga or disabilities at all. Regardless, I wouldn’t suggest it for parents simply looking to expand their child’s therapy.
barbieq –
As described
magdalena mahar –
My and my son just love it 🙂
julie emerson –
Very good book
vc –
Great pictures. Best book on the market currently for this topic. Would have liked a bit more depth on ASD conditions and differences for different additional needs, but pleased with purchase and would recommend.