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Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and Special Needs
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
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
336 pages, Hardcover
First published August 26, 2013
13 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
May 11, 2013
Having written this book, I can hardly be objective!
May 20, 2024
As someone with a Master's in Yoga Therapy, I have a solid foundation in the theory and practice of yoga. However, working with children with autism and special needs requires a unique approach that goes beyond traditional training. "Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and Special Needs" by Louise Goldberg has been an invaluable resource in bridging that gap.
Goldberg's extensive experience and compassionate insight shine through every page. Her practical advice and detailed exercises have given me the confidence to conduct sessions that are both effective and sensitive to the needs of these children. The techniques outlined in the book are easy to follow and adapt, making the transition from theory to practice much smoother.
I found the book extremely helpful, particularly because it is written by someone who has hands-on experience with children with special needs. This firsthand knowledge is something that theoretical training alone cannot provide. The book helped me feel more prepared and equipped for my first encounters with these children, ensuring a more positive and supportive environment for them.
I was so grateful for the guidance and support that I wrote a short email to Louise Goldberg to express my appreciation. Her work has truly made a difference in my professional journey and in the lives of the children I work with.
If you're a yoga therapist, educator, or parent looking to incorporate yoga into the lives of children with autism and special needs, I highly recommend this book. It's a comprehensive, thoughtful, and practical guide that you will return to again and again.
Goldberg's extensive experience and compassionate insight shine through every page. Her practical advice and detailed exercises have given me the confidence to conduct sessions that are both effective and sensitive to the needs of these children. The techniques outlined in the book are easy to follow and adapt, making the transition from theory to practice much smoother.
I found the book extremely helpful, particularly because it is written by someone who has hands-on experience with children with special needs. This firsthand knowledge is something that theoretical training alone cannot provide. The book helped me feel more prepared and equipped for my first encounters with these children, ensuring a more positive and supportive environment for them.
I was so grateful for the guidance and support that I wrote a short email to Louise Goldberg to express my appreciation. Her work has truly made a difference in my professional journey and in the lives of the children I work with.
If you're a yoga therapist, educator, or parent looking to incorporate yoga into the lives of children with autism and special needs, I highly recommend this book. It's a comprehensive, thoughtful, and practical guide that you will return to again and again.
May 31, 2018
Great resource for teaching yoga to children with autism. Will definitely be referencing this book (especially the postures and curricula) again in the fall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2020
My best companion
January 4, 2017
This book is a perfect tool for teachers and parents that want to help children relax and feel good. The book has lots of pictures that make it easy to achieve results fast. I loved it!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews