New York Insight Meditation Center welcomes Sharon in-person for the inaugural gathering of the Insight Family Program for parents, caregivers and children. Sharon will be introducing her new children’s book, Kind Karl, in person, which is a heartwarming tale about a crocodile with a temper, who mindfully finds his way from being a snappy reptile, to self-compassion and kindness. After listening to a read aloud of Kind Karl, children will have the chance to engage in a mindful art and play while parents gather with Sharon to discuss meeting the joys and challenges of family life with mindfulness. There will be time for sharing and mindful snacks after the two groups come back together.

Over the next six months, we will offer monthly events for families to gather and engage mindfully with different themes, like kindness, courage and peacemaking. Each month’s gathering will feature a mix of storytelling or read-alouds by authors, as well as mindful movement, dialogue, meditation and play. We will begin in one big group for a check in, listen to storytelling, and explore the monthly theme together. Afterwards, children are invited to meet with teachers, work on an art project, experience the joy of community, spaciousness and mindful play.

Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to meditate together and participate in a dialogue guided by a dharma teacher to explore the joys and challenges of parenting.

The recommended child age range for this program is 4 – 15. One adult per family may attend free. For example, if two adults and two children will be attending from your family, please select 2 Child tickets and 1 Additional Adult ticket.

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