Sensational Story Time Yoga Training Program

Sensational Story Time Yoga is a cornerstone program of the Autism Resource Center. It is a unique monthly series that is creative, effective, and positively impacts the learning of children with autism. It involves story time, sensory kits that enhance the story experience, and an interactive yoga class based upon the theme of the book. The goal is to engage children in literature by offering them enhanced story experiences coupled with physical interaction through yoga. These family-focused events are therapeutic and fun while fostering literacy and physical, emotional, and social wellness. 

The Autism Resource Center currently offers Sensational Story Time Yoga classes in partnership with The Little Bee Yoga Company at libraries on the South Shore. Click here to view our event calendar for more information. 

ONLINE COURSE:

NEW! We are now offering Sensational Story Time Yoga as an online course. Our goal is to expand this program to libraries and community organizations across the Commonwealth and beyond, and we have a new online course that teaches learners every aspect of the program. It takes individuals through a learning path of 15 modules, beginning with an introduction to the sensory kits, a review of the program’s history, the research behind the approach, and then a comprehensive step-by-step guide on program implementation and execution. 

The training is a PPT-based module that can be completed at the user's own pace, and it includes sample classes, sensory kits, and all course materials. It also contains video of real Sensational Story Time Yoga classes, so learners can have a first-hand view of the program. Each module concludes with a parking lot for questions, and certificates of completion are issued to learners at the completion of the course.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

As a result of taking our online program, individuals will be able to:

• Explore and discuss the research-based benefits of yoga for children with autism
• Review and practice all components of Sensational Story Time Yoga
• Successfully implement Sensational Story Time Yoga at a venue of their choice

“Sensational Story Time Yoga is a unique therapeutic program that meets the diverse physical, social, emotional, sensory, and behavioral needs of children and adults with disabilities. These modules provide the foundation and roadmap to easily implement this magical program. Together, we will address these unmet needs and improve participants’ overall well-being: centering the mind, body, and soul.” – Janine Birmingham

PROGRAM BENEFITS:

Why should you take this online training program? Sensational Story Time Yoga has many benefits. 

• Sessions promotes increased learning, interaction, and fine/gross motor skills 
• Sessions improve families’ connections and create welcoming, safe, and inclusive spaces in the local community 
• Libraries promote a love of reading and learning and are ideal environments to combine literacy, physical movement, and socialization 
• Sensory kits bring the books to life and help children engage with the story, increase comprehension, and improve social skills 
• Yoga benefits include mindfulness, breathing techniques, and relaxation 
• Yoga teaches children how to regulate their emotions, build their confidence, and improve social skills 
• Yoga helps reduce anxiety and other behaviors that are often seen in children with autism

PURCHASING THE PROGRAM

Sensational Story Time Yoga is a magical program that addresses the unique learning needs of children with autism through the transformative power of stories and yoga. By taking this training, you will be empowered with the information and tools you need to implement Sensational Story Time Yoga in your own community. Together, we will vastly improve learning and community inclusion for people with autism.

A special thank you to Ralph James and his wife Janice, who made a generous donation as part of the James Charitable Gift Fund to support the development of this training program. 

For more information, please contact Elizabeth Jones, Chief Program Officer, at EJones@ArcSouthShore.org. You may also click the images below to download our training brochure and investment guide. Click here to purchase the program today.