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In the book, Child Development ll, Patrice Thomas and Wendy Shepherd declare: “We live in a world that is undergoing rapid and dramatic change, and our children are being placed under more and more stress.” (Their statement is more true today than when it was first written.) They continue:

“Children’s time is now more and more directed by adults, and there is little time for children to contemplate, reflect or simply be… Adults readily admit they often transfer their stress reactions (no matter how subtle) onto the children in their care but feel unequipped to incorporate relaxation into their daily routines.”

While the authors recommend plenty of unstructured time for children, they also discuss the value of helping children experience some simple relaxation exercises. “No one needs special skills. Just try!” they proclaim. Here’s one example of a simple Tai Chi relaxation exercise (called Sun and Moon Bow) to experience with children:

“Have children stand with their feet apart, knees slightly bent, arms resting by their sides. Ask the children to form a fist with their right hand – this is their ‘sun.’ At the same time, ask the children to form a semi-circle around their ‘sun’ with their left hand – this is their moon. Bring the hands to the forehead and make a bow.”

We know budgets are tight for many of you so we have created a large collection of helpful resources (such as Child Development ll)  that we are making available for 75 percent off - as a way to say thank you for your courageous work this year.

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