Children Learn to SOAR at DDVC Summer Camp

On July 12, 2026, Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre (DDVC) hosted a special event where children were encouraged to SOAR — to spread their wings and shine. SOAR carries a powerful message: S for Support, O for Open-minded, A for Awesome, and R for Respect. This one-day summer camp offered a thoughtful blend of mindfulness, creativity, and hands-on exploration for children ages 5 to 11. Although the camp was only a day long, each experience was intentionally designed to introduce foundational concepts of calmness, compassion, and self-awareness in ways that were both accessible and engaging for children across a wide age range.
 
One of the central highlights was the children’s introduction to meditation led by Ms. Louise. Many children were curious and open, and even those who were initially unsure gradually settled into the quiet moment. Their open-mindedness guided them to explore stillness — something that can feel unfamiliar in their busy daily lives. It was encouraging to see how quickly they adapted and embraced the practice. This small exposure planted an early seed of mindfulness that can continue to grow with them over time.
 
The second highlight of the day was the drumming session with Ms. Patsy. Her energy, warmth, and rhythmic guidance immediately drew the children in. Through drumming, the children explored rhythm and teamwork in a way that felt joyful and empowering. This session not only brought excitement to the camp but also reinforced mindfulness through sound, helping the children experience how rhythm can ground the body and focus the mind. It was a memorable moment that allowed them to shine.
Finally, as the camp moved into the second half of the exciting day, the children created their own homemade stress balls — a practical, sensory tool they could take home and use whenever they needed a moment of calm. Additionally, they participated in the art activity Soul of the Tree, a creative project that encouraged them to express their inner world through self-expression and imagination. This activity invited the children to practice focusing, slowing down, and working with intention rather than rushing, helping them connect mindfulness with creativity.
 
Altogether, these activities balanced mindfulness with creativity, giving children opportunities to explore both stillness and self-expression. By the end of the day, the children left not only with handmade creations, but also with new experiences and an understanding of calmness and compassion. Most importantly, they filled their hearts with kindness and love, ready to SOAR.


Text: Jessica Yang
Photo: Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre