Dear Mattingley families and friends,
As the children are getting ready to move up to their Kindy class
next year many have begun to drop their afternoon sleep time. We feel in the
Mattingley classroom that no matter what age the children are, they can benefit
greatly from relaxation. Relaxation benefits children's bodies in that it helps
to relax their muscles and calm their nervous system as well as boost their
immune system and helps them to sleep. Relaxation also benefits children's
minds in that it sharpens concentration, promotes positive thinking and
improves their memory. We all live in such a busy world that it is
important for our children to have the opportunity to relax.
While we may not be having afternoon naps in our classroom anymore
we have introduced yoga as another from of relaxation, and the children have
embraced it enthusiastically, therefore it is becoming a favourite part of the
day. Almost more popular then Show and Tell (not quite though). Through
practicing yoga the children have the opportunity to develop
and practice some important skills for life.
Some poses are fast moving while others are slow paced. This
allows children to learn self-control, enhancing their focus and awareness. For
example moving from one pose to another that requires more balance takes great
attention, which is a skill that is essential in most learning
environments.
When children display great strength, focus and flexibility in
Yoga, it does wonders for their confidence. Through Yoga success children
develop their persistence skills in being able to master different poses.
Practicing Yoga also provides children an immediate outlet to
reduce stresses in a safe and nurturing environment. It is a physical exercise
that produces happy endorphins.
As you can see in the photos the children have been loving
engaging in Yoga as a relaxation method. If you wish to try Yoga at home with
your child we have been using 'Cosmic Kids Yoga' on Youtube. These are fun
sessions that are easy for the children to follow and gain success in. We look
forward to developing our Yoga skills and having more meaningful afternoon
relaxation times for the remainder of the term.
Next weeks show and tell topic is: How do you
celebrate Christmas with your family (maybe you could bring in a photo)
Kimberley and Coral
