Zazen is the heart of our practice. Even a few minutes of stillness supports children to enjoy calm minds and bodies, bring more attention to the present moment, and meet each other with kindness. Creative expression invites children and teens to explore themselves and the world with originality and vitality. We move our bodies, create visual art, make collaborative music and more to encourage children to find and express their unique voice.
The beautiful grounds of the monastery are ideal to experience the vibrancy of life all around us. The kids and teens explore and play in the forest, grow plants in the garden and even cook meals over a fire, cultivating a deep connection with the natural world.
Our programs are offered via age-appropriate groups (see details below). We look forward to sharing practice with you and your family.
Zen Kids (ages 4–10): In person Sundays, dates below. Email Sekku and Jacob at zenkids@dharma.net for more info.
Zen Tweens (ages 10–13): In person Sundays are back, and online is on break, dates below. Email Kyuko and Jo at zentweens@dharma.net for more info.
Zen Teens (ages 14–18): Meets monthly on a Saturday from 1:00-4:00pm at the Monastery. Email Kien at zenteens@dharma.net for more info.
Parents Together in Practice: A (virtual) space for parents, welcoming people parenting children of all ages and members of all family structures and identities. On summer hiatus but if interested please email Seijo at raeraenevins@gmail.com.
Sunday mornings offer our young Sangha the opportunity to come together to practice Zazen, enjoy animal kinhin, eat together, play, be creative, discover stories and more. Once a month at the Monastery, from 9 a.m.–noon (see dates below). Programs will be outside wherever possible and inside in case of bad weather- please dress accordingly! Drop us a line if you have any questions. Whilst inside we ask that everyone be masked. Thank you.
August
Sunday 21st (Zen Kids) *One week later than originally posted.
September
Sunday 11th (Zen Kids)
October
Sunday 16th (Zen Kids)
November
Sunday 6th (Zen Kids)
Sunday mornings 9 a.m.–noon, tween Sangha come together to practice zazen, kinhin, liturgy, art practice, and explore the forest and orchards as we connect with nature. Please plan for the kids to be outside with water, tick protection, a hat/sunscreen, and your preferred bug repellent (also provided). We will be maintaining check-in attestation questions and temp checks, as well as distancing and sanitation protocols throughout the program (please bring a mask). We will carefully be serving a snack. Drop-off and pickup will be from the Parking lot near the wood shed. Email us for more details or to answer any questions.
**Thursday Zoom sessions are currently on break** Zoom sessions offer tweens the opportunity to come together despite physical distance, to deepen our understanding of the Dharma, zazen, and ways to extend our awareness and “practice” into everyday life. We use the foundations of mindfulness through games, examining impossible questions, using our perceptions, and seeing how everyone’s mental processes are both unique and similar. Using videos, visuals, and other creative methods, attendees also have the opportunity to make art and share.
Zen Teens (ages 14–18): Meet monthly on a Saturday from 1:00-4:00pm at the Monastery. Email Kien at zenteens@dharma.net for more info.
