With delight we continue our thirteenth year of lively, engaging programming for children and teens. Our joyful mission is to awaken the heart of great wisdom and compassion in the next generation. Fifteen volunteer teachers and one staff specialist in Buddhist curriculum for young people serve seven age groups, nursery to high school.
Mindfulness and/or meditation are part of each class. We convey the teaching message with stories, presentation and discussion. We embody the teaching with creative activities ranging from games and skits to journaling and service projects. Rather than tell students what they "should" do, we co-create awakening practices, then encourage students to experiment and find what works best for them.
The program depends on parents serving as teachers, substitute teachers, and helpers. We kindly request that one family member co-teach every third year. Lesson plans are provided, and you receive credit toward classes at the center. If teaching is not a good fit, we can find an alternative service.
Classes meet every other Sunday at 9:00 am.
To learn more, or to volunteer, contact Katharine Krueger, our Children and Youth Practice Director.
2010–2011 theme: Mindfulness and Meditation
To bring vitality to daily life, students will explore these facets of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness:
This fall, students will enjoy ikebana, the art of mindful flower arrangement, as a gateway to the senses and to welcome all responses and emotions. Students will also offer a tea ceremony to the sangha. They will try different forms of meditation as age-appropriate.
We will encourage family practice of mindfulness and meditation.
Flyer and registration form (PDF format)
Nursery (6 months–3 years; newborns by arrangement)
Preschool (ages 3, 4 & some 5s)
K–1 (kindergarten & grade 1)
Early Elementary (grades 2 & 3)
Upper Elementary (grades 4 & 5)
Middle School (grades 6–8)
Fall Session Dates: September 19, October 3, 17 and 31, November 14 and 28, December 12
Time: 9:00–10:35 am
Fee: (per child)
Option 1—Register for entire year (17 classes plus family picnic)
Before September 1: $195 (members: $140)
Otherwise: $240 (members: $185)
Option 2—Register for fall only (7 classes)
Before September 1: $85 (members: $60)
Otherwise: $100 (members: $85)
(The actual cost per student is $235. Donations are welcome.)
Registration remains open throughout the quarter, with tuition prorated.
Zen for Teens is a new group for high school students (Grades 10–12) led by David Schoeller, from Macalester Zen Group. The group will discuss life issues and questions from the perspective of Buddha's teachings, meditate and engage in other class activities. By unleashing your natural compassion and creativity, you become empowered to meet and overcome life's challenges. Not a high school student but know someone who may be interested? Please pass this information on to them.
Session Dates: March 21, April 4, April 18, May 2
Time: Sundays from 10:45 am–noon
Grades: 10–12
Fee: $15 per person
You may register using the Children and Youth Practice Registration forms, available here (or here, in PDF format), at the Center or by calling 651-222-6968, ext. 1, or by emailing
If cost is an obstacle, please apply for work-study or a fee waiver by contacting our Program Coordinator.