While some parents celebrate when their kids go off to camp, others fervently wish they could go with them. Family camps are in fact a fast growing part of the camp experience, say the American Camp Association and provide a unique way f
or parents f
or connect with their kids.
A family camp is much different from the usual res
or t vacation. The camp environment fosters learning, interaction and communication between parent and child. One such family camp adventure is American Yogini’s Nature and Yoga Dance Retreat at Kripalu Center located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. This year’s camp starts on July 29 and runs to August 8.
Kids aged 5-12 enjoy five days of yoga and nature fun while playing in the natural beauty that surrounds Kripalu Center. Adults have their own w
or kshops while the kids practice yoga with trees, water, wind, and animals, go on a nature treasure hunt, make secret outdo
or altars f
or birds, squirrels, elves and faeries and learn yoga dances in field, labyrinth, woodland, and lakefront.
These activities improve concentration and focus, stimulate their imagination and help to release energy in a fun, safe environment. Using interactive games and animated postures, kids learn about animals, nature and basic anatomy through yoga.
“Yoga can be very helpful f
or children whose bodies are still developing,” says American Yogini Mary McGuire–Wien. “The use of animated poses and basic stretching exercises promote strength, flexibility, co
or dination and body awareness. Breathing and visualization techniques teach kids how to focus, relax and develop self-control. At Kripalu they get the added benefit of doing it in natural and beautiful surroundings”
All meals and evening activities are held together, as well as one special parent and child yoga dance event. The children perf
or m and demonstrate with masks and dances f
or the parents, then join them f
or a parent and child yoga finale.
Tuition cost is $240 per person plus five days of room and board at the camp.
M
ore inf
ormation on yoga retreats and kids yoga classes available from http://www.americanyogini.com
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