Pediatric Yoga and Self-Regulation

Research has documented significant positive effects in children's physical, neurological, educational, and emotional growth through the practice of yoga and mindfulness. While it can be difficult to keep a child engaged, including the child as an interested, eager, and active participant in their therapeutic program is essential to improving outcomes. Integrating therapeutic yoga principles into a treatment plan empowers a child to be successful, makes them excited to participate in therapy, and partake in a home exercise program.

This course will equip participants with the skills to practice yoga therapy for the child with behavioral disorders, sensory dysfunction, and musculoskeletal imbalance. Participants will learn to utilize breathing/pranayama, asanas/postures, sound therapy, and relaxation techniques to improve the child's overall health, well-being, and function. Participants will learn effective documentation and billing procedures to go along with these dynamic newinterventions. This course will add to participants' treatment toolbox by integrating therapeutic yoga principles thatsupplement traditional modalities and treatment methods. Participants will leave this course with therapeutic exercise modifications that offer functional holistic solutions to keepingchildren engaged and active in their treatment program.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants

Highlights

• Improve balance, coordination and strength forimproved functional mobility and activities of daily living through traditional and modern yoga practices
• Practical techniques utilizing breathing and mindfulness practices for improved self- regulation
• Integrate the principles of yoga for improved self-esteem and confidence in the pediatric client with special needs
• Incorporate yoga poses to help integrate primitive reflexes for improved motor function in the pediatric client for functional activities
• Design and implement a group yoga class for children and adolescents with physical, behavioral,sensory, and developmental challenges