The Shotoku Children's Center
The mission of the Shotoku Children's Center is threefold: quality contemplative education and child care; integration of children and families into the Shambhala Mountain Center (SMC) community; and development of excellent facilities for children, families and the community.
In
1994, Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche named SMC's children's center after Prince
Shotoku Taishi (574 – 622 AD), who is considered largely responsible
for the introduction of Buddhism into Japan. Prince Shotoku was renowned
as an accomplished statesman, artist and visionary who succeeded in bringing
peace and harmony to his country. He founded the Horyuji Temple, a repository
of some of the finest Japanese Buddhist art.
Who can attend the Shotoku Children's Center?
Shotoku offers an annual summer program providing quality care for children ages 3 - 15 whose parents are program participants or staff. Children spend six hours a day in mixed-age groups with low student-teacher ratios. Based on a contemplative educational model, the curriculum focuses on the Shambhala teachings, contemplative arts and outdoor activities. Parents are responsible for their children outside Shotoku hours. As a result, parents may need to give up some program time or bring a nanny.
Older teenagers are required to either assist with the younger children or participate in apprenticeship to the Shambhala Mountain community. This is an opportunity for teens to experience different departments at the Center, such as Ikebana, Dorje Kasung and Land Crew. If you have a teen coming this summer, please contact the Shotoku Coordinator to arrange an apprenticeship.
2008 Thanksgiving Retreat: Childcare Available. Contact (970) 881-2184 ext. 224.
2008 Fall/Winter: Limited Childcare Available. Contact (970) 881-2184 ext. 224.
Details & Register
Learn about children & learning opportunities at SMC
For more information, contact our Shotoku Coordinator:
Liz Hogan
(970) 881-2184 ext 234
Email: shotoku@shambhalamountain.org
Shambhala Mountain Center
4921 County Road 68C
Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545