Yoga for Happy Kids was establish as a means to assist children, parents, teachers, and educators to instill healthy habits in young children as a foundation for positive development, putting stop to the rapidly spreading epidemic of obesity, type II diabetes, undesirable behaviors, and all other by-products thereof.
A critical analysis of existing theory and research related to components of children's positive development, Csikszentmihalyi's "Flow" model of optimal experience and Yoga practice paradigm revealed common key ingredients that set the foundation for Yoga-based programs. The goal of the programs is to onset positive children's development that enhances child's realistic sense of the Self, self-perception of abilities and competencies, induces intrinsic interest and motivation, and fosters self-knowledge and self-control.
As a life-span psychologist specializing in the study of the psychological and physiological effects Yoga practice has on child's development, my research, along with the support of vast scientific literature unequivocally shows that the benefits of implementing Yoga at the early age are real and should not be ignored. Findings show that even a short practice of this ancient art can induce poise and focus that can further stimulate cognitive awareness, information retention, and the overall ability to learn. It is therefore essential for parents and teachers working together in making Yoga practice a children's daily routine, which in turn will strengthen children's Yoga experience and its full benefits.
I would like to invite you to make each year your "Year Toward Children's Positive Development" - a time period in which you can make the changes that will make a real difference in your children's level of health, vitality, well-being as well as academic achievement. I would like to introduce you to a powerful Yoga for Happy Kids programs that can do just that.
The Yoga for Happy Kids programs were designed with respect to the whole child. Daily Yoga practice helps children to gain personal insight into their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. The programs offer guidance and tools necessary to transform this awareness into a personal compass guiding them in times of need as well as in their decision-making processes throughout their lives.
The next generation will be the result of our influence and work. To make this work enjoyable, to help our classrooms, homes, and communities the Yoga-based programs provide a wholistic approach to Yoga as a way of life rather than a once a week activity. Yoga asanas and meditation technique included in the programs is an excellent method to help children to relax, and enable them to find their quiet place within. When children engage in daily Yoga practice, they set a life-long foundation for their well being.