Resilient Teens & Tweens - Yoga & Play Therapy

In a time when young people are often described as the most stressed generation, RVN Wellness in Port Moody, BC, offers a nurturing space designed to meet the realities of growing up today. School pressure, life at home, bullying, social media, addictive video games, and the effects of recent global events can all weigh heavily on children and teens. These Tween and Teenager Yoga classes are created to support young people as they build resilience, connection, and confidence.

At RVN Wellness, the yoga mat is seen as more than a place for movement. It becomes a practical tool for navigating overwhelm and everyday challenges. The Resilient Teens program is built around real-life coping skills, combining yoga, breathwork, and meditation with evidence-based approaches that support mental wellness in an accessible way. These practices help teens strengthen their ability to manage the demands of adolescence while encouraging empowerment and well-being.

Led by an experienced counselor in youth mental health and play therapy, the program offers more than physical activity. It is a space for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and support. Young people are given tools to work with difficult emotions and stress, while also exploring topics such as anxiety, self-esteem, depression, anger, eating disorders, and self-harm. The classes go beyond yoga postures to build a foundation for mental wellness, body image awareness, peer connection, and emotional balance.

When: Once a week (see schedule below), 45-minute sessions, with drop-off beginning 15 minutes before class starts

Duration: Registration opens each season – Fall / Winter / Summer / Spring

Cost: Refer to registration page

Instructor: A Registered Social Worker/Yoga Instructor

Program Details for Ages 9 to 13:

• Yoga-inspired play therapy group with movement, games, art, and music.
• Focus on resilience, self-reliance, and coping strategies.
• Emphasis on connection to self, peers, family, and the world.
• Children receive a crystal in each class.

Program Details for Ages 12 to 17:

• Yoga practices designed to help connect with intuition.
• Focus on resilience, self-reliance, and coping strategies.
• Emphasis on connection to self, peers, family, and the world.
• A crystal is given each class to help build a personal collection and learn the healing properties of each gemstone.

Benefits for Your Child:

• Resilience & Self-esteem: Build inner strength, focus, and a positive self-image.
• Community & Connection: Form meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging.
• Safe Space: Grow in a secure, supportive environment.
• Emotional Intelligence: Learn techniques for managing emotions and stress.
• Holistic Yoga Benefits: Develop physical strength, mental clarity, and mindfulness.
• Personalized Support: Receive guidance tailored to a range of needs.

Our Approach & Principles:

1. Body Autonomy: No child is required to take part in anything that does not feel good in their body. Children are taught to safely say no.
2. Body Awareness: Programs are designed to strengthen body awareness.
3. Social/Emotional Learning: SEL is woven into all activities.
4. Inclusivity and Accessibility: Programs are inclusive and accessible to all children.
5. Lila (Divine Play): Lila is an important part of the approach, supporting joy and resilience.
6. Anti-Bullying Policy: A strict anti-bullying policy helps maintain a safe, nurturing setting.
7. Open to All Abilities: Children of all abilities are welcome, with no prior experience required.
8. Participation: Children are invited to come as they are and join in at a level that feels comfortable.

About Our Instructor: Dawn Slykhuis

Dawn Slykhuis is a yoga instructor and therapist with years of experience in child and youth mental health. As a Registered Social Worker and Yoga Instructor, she creates programs that blend yoga, breathwork, and meditation with evidence-based practices for mental wellness and social-emotional learning. She also supports children and teens with ADHD, neurodivergence, and autism spectrum needs. In addition, Dawn offers one-on-one therapy for teens and kids, including counselling for anxiety, depression, trauma, and other challenges young people may face. RVN Wellness welcomes all identities, races, abilities, and backgrounds in a space built on diversity, belonging, and acceptance.

Registration & More Information:

• Registration: View RVN Wellness' Kids and Family Yoga Classes below and click a class to register.
• Late Registrants: Prices will be prorated for the remainder of the term.
• Private Sessions: Private assessment/counselling is available for mental health or substance use concerns.
• Contact Us: Additional class times may be available for groups of 3 or more children.
• FAQ: See the Frequently Asked Questions for kid programs.

Schedule:

• Resilient Girls (ages 7 to 11): 4:00 - 4:45 pm
• Resilient Kids (ages 4-8): 5:00 - 5:45 pm
• Resilient Tweens & Teens (asana focused) (ages 9-17): 6:00 - 6:45 pm
• Resilient Kids Workshop Series (ages 5-10): 3:30 - 5:30 pm (select weeks)

Note: May be eligible for coverage under extended health plans with RSW (Registered Social Worker) benefits. RVN Wellness is a registered FNHA, CVAP and AFU provider. Programs may be covered by Jumpstart funding for those with financial barriers.