BWZ Children and Family Programs
ALL MEETINGS AT OUR ZENDO HAVE BEEN TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED
PLEASE NOTE: Because of COVID, we are not currently meeting in person, and our children and family programs have not been adapted for an online format.
Please check back for an update on when these programs will resume!
Bright Way Zen has started several non-sectarian programs for children and parents, please help us spread the word!
For a list of upcoming programs, please visit the Children & Family Events Calendar.
There is no charge for any of the programs, as Bright Way Zen is supported by donations. All are welcome regardless of religious affiliation (or lack thereof). Buddhism is a non-theistic tradition that is completely compatible with other faiths (at least from Buddhism’s perspective).
Weekly & Monthly Programs:
Mindfulness for Preschoolers ~ Wednesdays ~ On Summer Break
Click here for instructions about connecting via zoom.
Parents often feel that they’re just too busy to fit meditation into their busy lives. Too many distractions! Too little time! Too many demands! Impossible to relax!
Join us and learn how to integrate meditation and mindfulness practices into your life with children. Experience increased calm and peacefulness which is also transmitted to your children. Numerous studies show that mindfulness techniques help children learn better, develop a sense of competency, and manage emotions more effectively. Children who become familiar with these techniques early in life, naturally incorporate them into their their day to day living and are more resilient.
Mindfulness practices are geared toward preschoolers. Classes are fun, flexible, and adapted to the children that are participating that day. From 10:45- 11:00 AM we will transition to an informal social/snacktime. Please bring appropriate snacks for your children.
All ages of children are welcome, including infants. Feel free to arrive and leave whenever you’re comfortable.
Although classes are free of charge, registration on Meet Up is required. To RSVP please click here: Meet Up Link
Monthly Sunday Children’s Program ~ 10:20-11am
The children’s program coincides with the Sunday morning Zen practice schedule. It occurs during Kinhin and the second period of Zazen, which allows parents to bring their kids and still participate in the morning practice.
The program includes singing, dancing, storytelling, art projects, and walks in nature. The kids will join the rest of the group at 11am for tea and snacks.
Please arrive around 10:15, quietly take off your shoes (the adults will be meditating!), and come to the back of the Zendo building (down the long hallway by the windows). Someone should be waiting to greet you, but if not, the kids’ room in the back, just come on in!
Monthly Tuesday Meet & Greet for Parents ~ 6:30-7pm
On the first Tuesday of the month, we will have an informal meeting for parents.
Come and introduce yourself to other parents in the Sangha, and share your ideas to help develop Bright Way’s Family and Children’s program to meet your needs.
Snacks at dad’s “church”
For upcoming program dates, please visit the Children & Family Events Calendar.
We invite all interested parties to participate in the development of our programs for children, parents, and families. We want to create the programs by responding to the specific needs and wishes of Bright Way members. Please contact Marcia Kahn at kahnmarcia@gmail.com or 503-704-4887 with any questions and comments.
Wesak 2018 bathing the baby buddha
Wesak Festival 2018 (celebrating the Buddha’s birth)
