Using
these meditations with children is not the same as reading
stories to them. Reading is passive. Children do understand
and become involved in what you are reading, but in guided
meditation they become actively involved.
Reading
a story and reading a meditation are different functions.
Reading stories to children is a must because it helps the
child to learn and spell, but meditation enables the mind
to become free, to explore.
Each
meditation has its own distinctive theme and gives children
the opportunity to experience it. They feel the love of
the Buddha; radiate loving-kindness; climb mountains; collect
seashells; become a bird; feel the touch of the wind on
their face; and go to the moon.
There
are so many things they can do, and all these things must
bring their imagination to the fore. Most importantly, they
learn to appreciate the Dharma more. In other words, they
participate in the meditation and learn to be in touch with
the source of love, strength and wisdom inside themselves.
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