Yoga and mindfulness introduced in the classroom at A. J. Schmidt Elementary
ANGOLA — Erin Wodzinki, speech and language pathologist at A. J. Schmidt Elementary School, is working magic with the students. She is also a certified yoga instructor with Radiant Child Yoga Levels 1-2. Her newly-obtained certificate is benefiting the little ones at AJS.
Yoga is the “union” or coming together of mind (thoughts and feelings) and physical body. Many people feel an overall sense of well-being when they practice yoga. A. J. Schmidt students in kindergarten and second grade classrooms are learning to practice yoga and mindfulness. Mindfulness and yoga can help students learn to focus, manage stress, regulate emotions and develop positive outlooks. They are also developing better coping skills and communication skills. The students enjoy the yoga sessions, which are based on stories and monthly themes.
Professional organizations that focus on children also support the idea behind yoga. For example, The American Academy of Pediatrics and The National Association of the Education for Young Children recommend that children should participate in activities that support the development of the whole child. This is exactly what yoga is about.
COMMENTS