The Science:
1 in 7 children aged 10-19 are now said to experience a mental health problem and children with additional needs are no exception. The Mental Health Foundation reports 'Children with learning disabilities are four and a half times more likely to have a mental health problem than children without a learning disability.' But why? Children with Additional Needs are more vulnerable to mental health issues due to social isolation, sensory overload, academic pressure and communication barriers. (www.sendvision.co.uk)
Educational settings can help students with additional needs and those effected by their mental health by creating environments that are intentionally inclusive, respectful and value diversity. In fact, the Department for Education has published 8 principles schools and colleges should adopt in order to promote children and young people's mental health and wellbeing (link in useful websites below).
By practicing yoga, mindfulness and working with the breath we can create space between impulse and action, encourage social interactions and inclusion, enhance motor skills, increase mobility, reduce physical pain and improve emotional regulation.
At Boost Yoga we embed a culture of kindness, community and peace. It is a safe space for children and young people to learn, quieten the mind, self regulate, build confidence and make connections, all whilst developing lifelong coping strategies.
How We Support Children with Additional Needs
Every child is different and so our approach is child led, taking time to connect with the child in that moment, on their terms and adjusting our sessions accordingly to support the child's needs.
Some of the ways in which we can support a child with additional needs are that:
We use adapted poses,
We adjust our communication style where necessary,
We use props like the chair or wall,
We provide sessions to children who use wheelchairs and/or have low mobility,
Most importantly, we get to know our students, their preferences and what works best for them, and support their exploration of yoga and mindfulness by keeping sessions meaningful, engaging and fun!
Available in West Yorkshire
Group Sessions
Boost Yoga delivers group sessions for children with additional needs in Schools & Colleges.
We believe that by giving students opportunities to connect, gain autonomy and develop self esteem and confidence, we can support schools and colleges in promoting children and young people's mental health and wellbeing.
Emotional regulation is at the heart of what we do and each session we will introduce concepts and techniques that students can use outside of the session, to help them self regulate in their wider environments.
Sessions run for 45 minutes and focus on exploring yoga and mindfulness through games, activities, teamwork and group discussion, fostering inclusivity and social connection throughout.
To book or enquire please email info@boostyoga.co.uk.
Family or 1:1
Useful Websites:
