Combining a creative take on meditation, mindfulness, breathing, relaxation and yoga poses with kids’ games, music and other activities, Kidding Around Yoga is a program that is sweeping the country; not only yielding physical benefits, but also teaching kids to manage stress.

 

Thanks to a grant received by Harrison County Prevention Partnership, local yoga instructors have been trained in “KAY” and are ready to share it with the public. Available on a first-come basis to those who pre-register, a free series of classes are offered through Bridgeport Parks and Recreation at the Benedum Civic Center.

 

Teaching the six weekly classes which begin May 1 is Mary Ann Renzelli. The busy fitness instructor said she believes in the program and its benefit for today’s children, who live in a very fast-paced world filled with hustle and bustle which can wear down on a child’s peace and joy. She is excited to share what she has learned about the program which originated in Tampa, Fla. by Haris Lender, a certified integral yoga teacher at the 500 level, who is certified in Prenatal, Raja, Childrens and Stress Management.

“It’s a lovely, very well-done program that brings laughter and movement and fun activities for children,” Renzelli said.

 

Though it promotes peace, joy and mindfulness, the program follows an organized regimen, which starts with children seated.

 

“We give them a little mindful activity to quiet things down as they listen to the lesson, then we get them off the floor with a funny little story,” she said. “All the poses have animal names and the songs are really cute.”

 

The program is geared for children ages two to 12, but young teens are welcome to attend, too. Renzelli asks that at least one parent, grandparent or other family member stay with each child as they will also be involved in the program.

 

After much movement and the incorporation of poses, the session ends with a visit to the “secret garden” – a beautiful place in each child's imagination, where he or she can escape to their own thoughts.

 

KAY teaches improved focus and concentration, strength, coordination and balance and promotes good self-esteem, Renzelli said.

 

 

There is already talk, Renzelli said, about incorporating the program into the public school system, a way to learn peace and mindfulness, she said.

 

Editor's Note: Photos show children and parents particpiating in a Kidding Around Yoga class, taught March 17, at Strength, Balance, Yoga. Renzelli said she has received very positive feedback about the one-day pilot program.