Why sensory play?

Sensory play focuses on activities that engage a child’s senses. Sensory play encourages learning through exploration, curiosity, problem solving, and creativity. Research shows that sensory play builds nerve connections in the brain's pathways, which lead to the child's ability to complete more complex learning tasks. Sensory play supports language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and social interaction.

Why mindfulness?

Mindfulness: paying full attention to the present moment, while acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations

Practicing mindfulness can help toddlers, children, and teens learn how to manage stress, regulate their emotions, focus on the task at hand, and ease feelings of stress and anxiety.

What can I expect in this class?

In this 60-minute class, children will have the opportunity to learn breathing techniques, practice mindfulness, and engage in a variety of sensory play activities.

Children will begin by practicing a breathing exercise or mindfulness activity together to settle into the space. Then, children will have the opportunity to play and explore with sensory materials at their own pace. During the last 10-15 minutes, everyone will be invited to find a cozy spot in the studio to sit back, relax, and listen to calming music.

A few things to note:

• this class is open to children ages 1-5ish, with a grown-up! Babies and young toddlers benefit greatly from sensory play!

• wear clothing that can get dirty, as paint and other messy materials will be available

• space is very limited so that we can provide a meaningful experience for everyone

Class policies:

• to ensure that we maintain the integrity of the class and keep The Connection Corner a sensory friendly environment, we kindly ask that each child attends with just one grown-up. Please connect with us regarding special circumstances!

• if you have more than one participating child attending (12 months and up), please let us know so that we can accommodate with a sibling rate

SUMMER OFFERINGS

Fridays

9:30-10:30am

Sometimes a second offering is available 11:00-12:00 — check website and MindBody!

Guided by Pauline Sauer Groman