Both classes take place on Sunday mornings from 10:00 to 11:30 at the Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism at 108 NW 83rd Street in Seattle. More info at Sakya.org.

CHILDRENS DHARMA SCHOOL (ages 5-12)

The goal of the Children’s Dharma School is to introduce and explore age appropriate Buddhist concepts and principles, using creative and varied modalities. Different curricula have been devised for younger and older children so that they are engaged and excited about learning. Included are historical accounts of Shakyamuni Buddha, folktales, and legends traditionally taught in Tibetan Buddhism, as well as more intensive classes for the older children on such topics as the Four Noble Truths, The Six Perfections and other Buddhist principles. There are exercises to help children develop meditation techniques as well as a variety of art activities and a healthy snack offered during each class. Guest speakers are invited to give the children lectures on special topics and there are occasional field trips, as well as opportunities to learn about other spiritual traditions. Parents may leave their child/children with the Dharma School while they attend Sunday Chenrezi meditation, or join the children’s classes as assistants or observers.

TEEN’S DHARMA SCHOOL (ages 12 and up)

Vision: Our founding Lama, His Holiness Jigdal Dagchen Sakya Rinpoche, said on many occasions, “Be happy…make happy”. And really, what could be more important than that? By studying the teachings of the Buddha, and weaving them together with curriculum from the Project Happiness Foundation, teens will learn how to incorporate the principles of the Buddha’s teachings into their daily lives. They will also learn to build their own toolbox to help them become resilient, empowered, compassionate individuals and to “make happy” in today’s challenging world. The primary book we will be using is the Project Happiness Handbook, which will provide the class framework. Additional materials will be drawn from other sources to build a flexible, well rounded, engaging, and fun curriculum for the teens. Books will be furnished by Sakya Monastery to registered students. Drop-in tweens/teens will be provided with loaner books to use during class.