Here are some key points about the application of the Feldenkrais Method for children:

Movement Exploration:

- Gentle and Playful: The Feldenkrais Method® sessions for children are typically designed to be gentle, playful, and engaging. The emphasis is on exploring movement in a non-intrusive and enjoyable way.

- Natural Learning: The method leverages the principles of natural learning, allowing children to discover movement patterns and coordination through their own curiosity and exploration.

Motor Skills Development:

- Coordination and Balance: Feldenkrais can help children develop better coordination, balance, and spatial awareness by encouraging them to explore a variety of movements and positions.

- Fine and Gross Motor Skills: The method may support the development of both fine and gross motor skills through carefully designed movement sequences.

Body Awareness:

- Enhanced Sensory Awareness: The Feldenkrais Method® promotes heightened sensory awareness, helping children become more attuned to their bodies and movements.

- Posture and Alignment: Children can develop a better understanding of posture and alignment, which may contribute to improved overall body awareness.

Cognitive and Emotional Benefits:

- Increased Focus: The Feldenkrais Method® often involves mindful movement, contributing to increased focus and attention in children.

- Emotional Well-being: By fostering a positive and exploratory environment, the Feldenkrais Method® can support emotional well-being and resilience in children.

Adaptation for Specific Needs:

- Individualized Approach: Certified Feldenkrais practitioners can adapt sessions to meet the specific needs and developmental stages of each child.

- Support for Special Needs: The Feldenkrais Method® may be beneficial for children with various conditions, including those with developmental challenges, learning disabilities, or sensory sensitivities.

Some educators and therapists incorporate The Feldenkrais Method® principles into school activities to promote movement, self-awareness, and a positive learning environment. It's important for parents and caregivers to work with certified Feldenkrais practitioners experienced in working with children to ensure that sessions are tailored to the child's unique needs and interests. The gentle and exploratory nature of The Feldenkrais Method® makes it well-suited for promoting healthy movement patterns and overall well-being in children.

What happens when I give a Feldenkrais Method® lesson to a child and how does it work?

I strive to capture a child’s interest and attention, creating an environment where their brain is receptive to new information, fostering engagement in the learning process, establishing a sense of safety. I take the time to connect with the child, ensuring they feel seen and cared for.

In a playful manner, I explore the child's existing abilities, identifying a foundation for building new movement possibilities. Tailoring each lesson to the child's current abilities and needs, I guide them towards progressing to different and more complex variations based on their existing capabilities.

My touch is clear and gentle, offering the child an opportunity to perceive themselves. Leveraging my understanding of developmental stages and transitions (such as from sitting to crawling), I introduce small, manageable steps to facilitate learning.

I also educate parents on 'clear touch' and movement sequences, empowering them to support their child’s learning and development at home.

Each newfound ability enhances the child's self-expression and presence in the world improving as we said before: Balance, Timing, Sense of Orientation, Motor skills (fine and gross), Regulation (ADHD), Social Skills, Sounds, language, Eye-hand coordination.