FARMINGTON — Beginning Oct. 7, family focused yoga will be a new community event for families on Saturday mornings at the Farmington Grange Hall, 124 Bridge Street, West Farmington.

The price for families is $80 for four weeks, with a new theme every month. The first eight families who sign up get a free dancing scarf for each child attending.

The instructor, Jenn Stone, is certified in advanced children’s yoga through Childlight Education Company. For the past 18 years she has been working within the public school system, and currently is a school social worker for Spruce Mountain Elementary School in Jay, part of Regional School Unit 73. Most recently she has been teaching social emotional learning [SEL] in the classroom and within the 21st Century after school and summer programs.

“I chose yoga because yoga incorporates movement, focus, self, and the breath,” Stone told The Franklin Journal. “All of which are great tools to manage daily life tasks at all stages of life.”

One of her passions is working closely with families. She said she is excited to combine activities that incorporate movement and with an emphasis on SEL for families to participate in together.

Stone incorporates SEL into the monthly themes along with self regulation tools. “I also incorporate mindfulness into the activities,” she noted. “Mindfulness focuses also on the breath [which is our “superpower”], expressing gratitude, understanding and recognizing yours and others emotions, non-judgment, generosity, to name a few.”

Two classes will be offered: Kinderflow for ages three to six from 9-10 a.m. and Giggles & Grace for  seven to 10 year olds from 10:30-11:30 a.m., although all ages are welcome for either session.

The 60 minute classes run for four weeks. During that time, families will interact together in engaging activities using imagination, music, movement, mindfulness games, and of course yoga.

“The 60 minutes starts with a welcome song and ends with a guided relaxation [calming activity], Stone stated. “It is important that families stay for the duration, as the activities flow from beginning to end,” she noted.

Stone said each four week session will have specific themes: October, fall & adventure; November, gratitude & giving; December, winter fun; January, self affirmations & resilience; February, love & friendships; March, superpowers [you], fairies, & more; April, spring things; May, animal fun.

“June is still up in the air,” she noted. “I’d love to offer summer programming just for students.”

Scholarships are available. “United Way of the Tri-Valley Area offers scholarships through the Hope Fund I could help families apply for,” Stone said.

She would like to offer 10% off your next month discounts as the program continues, but indicated she is not able to do so yet.

“I hope to offer a family a month for free once I see how things go,” she noted. “I have more overhead than one would think. I tried to keep my prices affordable.”

For more information and to register for classes visit the website, www.familyfocusedyoga.com, or call 207-491-5346.

“Whether you are new to yoga or pro, grab your family and your imagination, and join us in October on a yoga adventure,” Stone enthused. “Family Focused Yoga: where your family is the focus.”

Morrison Hill Orchard, 272 Morrison Hill Road, is hosting an event on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 12-1 p.m. at the orchard where Stone will lead activities such as yoga freeze dance, downward facing dog bowling, mindful listening, read-aloud with activities following the story, and belly breathing. This event is free to the public, donations are welcome.

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