Is it right for a pre-school nursery to teach Ayurvedic Meditation to the kids without consulting the parents

Question

This is not part of the curriculum and is being done by the owner as an advertising excersise for his other businesses. I have asked for this to stop as it is a religious discipline and not of my religion, they seem to be ignoring my request and I am not happy. I don't want to have to change my child's pre-school, is there any action I can take here?

Answer 1

Beyond changing nurserys no there is nothing more you can do

edit - dont quote me on this but i didnt think nurserys had to abide by the same curriculum and rules that govern the curriculum as schools do

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2...

although the link above doesnt agree with me, if its true they have to follow a curriculum now then they must be governed by the local LEA, maybe a call to them might help

Answer 2

Ayurveda is not a religious discipline. It is an ancient philosophy to create health. You might want to research it a little more and see if it is something that really goes against your beliefs. Below is a wikipedia link.

I would also suggest talking to them in more depth about the practice and what it involves. There are thousands of meditations out there. Ask the specific questions. If he is just teaching a way for the children to quiet their minds a little bit I wouldn't think that is such a bad thing.

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I would like to add something to my response. It seems that you have already made up your mind on this and perhaps you are lacking the courage to follow what is true for you. It seems that you feel strongly that this is something that you do not want your child to experience. IF that is the case then it  your best option would be to find another school that is more in line with your belief systems. You should ALWAYS listen to your heart and follow your own wisdom. If you do not want your child in the situation then change the situation.

It really doesn't matter if it is something they have done in the past or not. If it is something they are doing now, you have to adjust and make the change that is right for you.

Answer 3

Oh dear, I would not be happy either in your situation. You should have rights to tell them that you do not want your child to take part in this - however did you sign a contract when your child started there? If so, you may have signed to say that it would be OK for them to have the children take part in things like this. If you did sign a contract, ask to see a copy and if this is not mentioned, I would go to the head.

Answer 4

I would not want my child to receive this religious instruction.  Run, don't walk away from a place like that.  It's a private business, so take your business elsewhere and don't be quiet about it.  

Answer 5

How awful for you. This is terrible.

I completely understand that just withdrawing your child from the nursery is not feasible

If this was my child and i was in this possitn i would speak to trading standards or citizens advise.

You pay fo them to care for your child and not to push thier religious opinion.

I'm sorry i do not have the answer but certainly consider speaking to who i've suggested. Good luck

Answer 6

Hello Mrs B

Ayurvedah is a philosophy & relates to India & not to any particular religion per say.

Why did you choose this preschool? something much have drawn you there? Maybe it is worth having a close look, ask if you can talk to someone about what it really entails & you may find that it doesn't go against your own faith. To talk will enhance your own knowledge & not hurt you in any way.

I do agree that the matter of curriculum should be bought up & matters such as these should be discussed, even via flyer with an opt in/out.

If after such a conversation etc with the owner you do not like it then you will have to leave, before you do ask your daughter if she likes it as it will broaden her horizons if she enjoys it, she has to find her own way - as we all do.

In Peace

Sadhara