Summer Camp for SEND Kids and Parents.
Over the summer, I grabbed the chance to provide qigong and visualisation classes for kids with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with their mums. It was at their summer camp, over a few weeks, and they wanted to experience something different and relaxing, which is certainly what I do.
When running exercise classes for SEND children, you need to be extra attentive to safety, flexibility, and enjoyment. I used clear, simple instructions and demonstrated the movements, with a bit of humour, which worked well. Remaining patient, inclusive, and prepared to make adjustments so that every child/mum felt valued and unhurried.
I provided plenty of encouragement, and everyone responded warmly, making the experience highly enjoyable. The parents provided excellent feedback after each session, which made it truly rewarding. I also had a great time and felt very connected to everyone; the engagement and focus were fantastic.
The parents said they found the visualisation extremely relaxing, especially given the stresses they face daily. A couple of mums noted, at the following session, how much calmer their child had been afterwards at home, which was quite a positive change for them.
Since Qigong is expressive and involves visualisations (of animals, nature, birds, etc.), it suits children well, as they are often very imaginative with it. The creative visualisation provides a depth of relaxation that isn’t achievable during conscious (awake) moments.
A lovely, heart-warming experience, all round.
