At Iris, inclusion and belonging are woven into the fabric of our community. Our sensory-friendly program was created to ensure that individuals with disabilities have a space to move, breathe, and connect in an environment thoughtfully designed with their unique needs in mind.

Taryn & Kristin

Sensory Friendly program

Our sensory friendly studio class meets weekly and offers a calm, structured, and supportive experience that adapts to each participant.

For some individuals, a group setting—even a supportive one—can feel like too much at first. That’s why we also offer private 1:1 yoga sessions for individuals with disabilities who may benefit from a quieter, more personalized environment.

These sessions are designed to help build confidence, body awareness, and comfort with movement at a pace that feels safe and empowering. Working one-on-one allows us to tailor the experience to the individual’s unique needs, learning style, communication preferences, and sensory profile.

Weekly Class

Where Inclusion Leads the Way

Our studio class meets weekly on Wednesdays at 5:00 PM.

Lighting, pacing, language, and transitions are intentionally considered to reduce overwhelm and encourage confidence. Participants are invited to move at their own pace, take breaks when needed, and engage in a way that feels safe and empowering.

The class is co‑led by an instructor with Down syndrome, reflecting our belief that true inclusion means creating space not only to participate—but to lead and contribute. Representation matters, and we want our students to see themselves in various members of our team.

Who Is this Class For?

This class is designed for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities who benefit from:

  • Predictable structure
  • Clear verbal and visual cues
  • Gentle movement and breath work
  • A smaller, supportive group setting
  • Sensory awareness accommodations

Caregivers are welcome if support is needed.

Payment & DDD Information

Iris Yoga is proud to be an approved vendor with the New Jersey Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD).

Participants may:

  • Use approved DDD funding
  • Or choose to self-pay

If you are planning to use DDD funding, we are happy to guide you through the process to ensure proper authorization and documentation.

For current pricing or DDD billing inquiries, please contact us directly at info@irisyoganj.com.

What to Expect

Each class includes:

  • Grounding and breathwork
  • Gentle strength-building movements
  • Sensory-friendly modifications
  • Opportunities for social connection
  • A closing relaxation or mindful moment

Our goal is not perfection in poses—it is confidence, regulation, independence, and community.

Private and Small Group Sessions

Multi-Focus Approach

Private sessions can focus on:

  • Building familiarity with yoga in a calm setting
  • Practicing regulation and breathing tools
  • Increasing strength, coordination, and balance
  • Developing independence and self-confidence
  • Preparing for eventual participation in a group class (if desired)

Our goal is to support comfort, growth, and self-trust.

Who Might Benefit from Private Sessions?

Private sessions may be helpful for individuals who:

  • Feel overwhelmed in group environments
  • Need additional support with transitions or pacing
  • Prefer individualized attention
  • Are working toward specific physical or confidence-related goals
  • Would benefit from individualized attention before joining a group class

Caregivers are welcome to be present if needed, or sessions may be structured to encourage gradual independence.

Payment & DDD Funding

As an approved vendor with the New Jersey Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), private sessions may be eligible for payment through approved DDD funding. We also offer a self-pay option.

If you are unsure whether private sessions are the right fit, we are happy to schedule a brief conversation to discuss your goals and determine what would feel most supportive.

let's talk

At Iris, inclusion means meeting each person exactly where they are. Whether in a group class or a private session, our focus is always the same: creating a space where individuals feel capable, calm, and confident in their bodies.

Contact us to set up time to talk.