At Grace Montessori School, movement and mindfulness aren’t just components of the curriculum—they’re essential to nurturing the whole child. This year, that philosophy came to life in a new way with the introduction of a yoga program to our elementary community, made possible through a Healthy Kids School Grant from Capital Blue Cross. Designed to support our students’ physical health, emotional well-being and personal growth, the program is a natural extension of Grace Montessori’s commitment to holistic education.
At the heart of the program is instructor Gabriel Colon, a certified yoga teacher with a lifelong passion for the practice. Gabriel brings not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of how yoga can empower children in meaningful ways.
“I’ve seen how yoga has helped my own daughter,” Gabriel shares. “It’s given her the tools to process emotions, find her calm and build confidence. I wanted to bring that same experience to other kids, and Grace Montessori was the perfect place to do that.”
Offered weekly to our elementary school students, the program is designed to promote physical activity, mental health and emotional stability through mindfulness.
Each session introduces students to foundational yoga poses, breathing techniques and short meditations—all in a format that’s engaging, age-appropriate and fun. The class themes are often inspired by student interests, with recent favorites including “dino yoga,” “anime yoga” and “basketball yoga.” These creative twists help make the practice more accessible and exciting while reinforcing focus, balance, and body awareness.
“Yoga gives them space to express themselves beyond academics,” Gabriel says. “They challenge themselves with new poses, cheer each other on, and open up about their own experiences. It’s powerful.”
Students are especially drawn to the interactive nature of the class. Whether they’re practicing new poses, visualizing moments of personal strength, or sharing stories with their classmates, the program invites them to engage both body and mind.
The impact extends beyond the yoga mat. Gabriel hopes students begin to see yoga not just as an activity, but as a tool they can use every day—before school to energize, after a tough moment to reset, or simply as part of their bedtime routine.
“It’s about making mindfulness and movement a regular part of life,” Gabriel says.
Like Grace Montessori, Capital Blue Cross believes in nurturing prosperity from a young age and supporting initiatives that promote lifelong wellness.
Yoga is just one example of how Grace Montessori brings the Montessori philosophy to life, fostering physical strength, mental clarity, emotional resilience and joyful discovery at every step.
Want to see the program in action? Follow along on our social media, where we’ll be sharing moments from class and highlighting the ways our students grow, stretch and shine.
Special thanks to Coach Gabriel (@CoachGabe31 on TikTok) for leading with compassion and creativity each week.
