Yoga for Children and Young People with Autism

I would recommend Michael’s works to anyone within education, his yoga games are uncomplicated and the resources are first class! This book is user friendly, but also allows the reader to benefit from Michael’s vast experience of not only teaching yoga, but successfully delivering within special educational needs settings. The games, sequences and postures within this book are suitable for both the beginner as well as experienced professionals. – Ryan Jones, Assistant Headteacher at Treetops School, UKThis is a masterpiece of a book for those teaching Yoga to children anywhere on the autistic spectrum. Michael gives clear guidelines as to how to engage the children’s interest while considering the individual conditions of autism with structure and consistency. It works and is just brilliant. – Wendy Teasdill, Teacher Trainer for the British Wheel of YogaThis collection is another gem from Chisswick. His structured and inclusive approach to yoga for those with autism is clear, user-friendly and most importantly, fun! There are so many ideas and approaches here that practitioners and parents will find invaluable. At a time when we are becoming increasingly aware of the lifelong importance of well-being and mental health for all, teaching yoga is a wonderful way to equip a vulnerable group of children with skills that will support their well-being for a long time to come! – Catherine McNerney, Assistant Head at Phoenix School, London, UKAmongst the expressive visuals and easy to follow yoga activities I’ve come to expect with Michael’s books, you’ll find some real life insights into engaging children across a broad range of sensory needs. I am by no means a yoga practitioner, but by following the game-led and goal-focused approach championed by Michael I’m able to confidently deliver activities that engage everyone in the class. It’s no secret that children are more likely to be receptive to physical activity if it’s fun but Michael’s knowledge goes further by really considering the differing sensory needs of the children creating a balanced and nurturing environment. The structure and repetition of the activities breeds consistency, giving me the assurance of delivering a manageable, enjoyable, but above all achievable yoga lesson for all. – Phillippa Johnson

Michael Chissick has been teaching yoga to children in primary mainstream and special needs schools as part of the curriculum since 1999. He is a leading specialist in teaching yoga to children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and continues to train and mentor students who want to teach yoga to children.