What to expect….
Yoga for children with additional needs includes the classical yoga practices of movement, breathing, deep relaxation combined with sound, rhythm, massage and sensory integration techniques.
Everyone is special. Regardless of abilities, appearance, culture, gender, race or the assumptions society has placed on us.
Our instructor Debs, has completed further training in Special Needs Yoga, Autism, Movement Based Learning and Brain Gym and have the understanding that they can help take children out of their stressed state and help them move into a relaxed state that creates the optimum condition and possibility for positive change. Simply starting by meeting every child with a pure intention to create a practice that encourages them to reach their fullest potential and celebrating the strength within each child we work from there.
The benefits can include:
- Improving motor control and motor planning skills
- Developing physical strength, muscle tone and balance
- Promoting flexibility and correcting postural misalignment
- Increasing self-awareness
- Establishing calm, organised mental states
- Improve concentration
- Reduce hyperactivity
- Relieve respiratory ailments
- Develop the ability to relax
- Release tension
- Reduce fear, frustration and stress
- Enrich the quality and quantity of sleep
Each session is based on the principles of movement, body work, breath-work and creativity. Sessions build upon each other, with each one focusing on a different discipline, including yoga, breath-work, massage, aromatherapy and movement based learning. This approach creates a space for exploration, inspiration and sharing enabling a personalised ‘toolbox’ of strategies for each child.
All sessions will be run by qualified Yoga Instructor, Debs.
Sessions will be held at Leeds Mencap which has a fully accessible building, disabled toilets, baby changing and a Changing Place with a hoist.Contact Miriam on info@littlehiccups.co.uk if you have any questions or if you need any support with payment. We aim to make all our sessions inclusive – no matter the barriers.
Our accessible yoga sessions are designed to be inclusive and supportive for children with additional needs and their siblings.
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Course Numbers:
Each course will have flexible numbers depending on the ability of the children. Bookings will initially be open for 5 families and increased if applicable.
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Recommended age 4-11
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Inclusive Participation:
Children with additional needs and their siblings are welcome to join our sessions.
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Supervision Requirements:
We require a ratio of one adult per young child or child with additional needs.
Older siblings who can independently manage themselves may attend without an accompanying adult.
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Engagement:
These sessions are most beneficial for those who can engage and participate actively. We strive to create an environment where all children can enjoy and benefit from the experience. Subject to availability, we will attempt to secure an extra room should a child need a break from the session.
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Attendance:
Please also check your diary prior to booking. Illness aside which we understand cannot be avoided, to get the full effect of the yoga you will need to be there every session. Not only will you and your child greatly benefit from this but it would be such a shame for the place to go to waste.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a positive and effective yoga session for everyone involved.