People who work in childcare are aware of the many stresses that children experience.  In busy early childhood settings, many carers and teachers are seeking effective and practical ways to bring rest, calm, wellbeing, rejuvenation and peace into young children’s lives.

This practical workshop will identify the causes and symptoms of stress in children and how it affects their happiness, wellness, learning and socialisation.  A number of simple and fun relaxation techniques will be explored (including breathing, gentle exercise and movement, visualisation).  Participants will note how easily these ideas can be incorporated into thoughtful and responsive early childhood practice on a daily basis.  Children and adults alike enjoy these easy, fun, imaginative and creative strategies for creating optimism, resilience and happiness.´

This course is presented by Patrice Thomas, early childhood consultant, lecturer, author and Honorary Associate of the Institute of Early Childhood, Macquarie University.  Patrice Thomas published ‘The Magic of Relaxation’ in Australia in 2002 and ‘The Power of Relaxation’ for the USA in 2003 and has contributed to a range of early childhood journals such as Childcare Information Exchange;  Ratler;  EveryChild.

The course is conducted over a two hour period.  Course content, certificate of attendance and light refreshments are included.  The cost includes GST.