Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
Sascha Maurer is a Therapeutic Recreation graduate certificate student at Algonquin College (’23). In 2022, he completed his Developmental Services Worker diploma and has worked in community and school settings, supporting people with physical and cognitive challenges. Through his experience, Sascha has developed a passion for using technology to support individuals experiencing barriers to meaningful recreation and leisure opportunities. He is developing a gamified planner for web and mobile devices to support neurodivergent groups. He pitched this business concept in a regional pitch competition and won first place. He is looking forward to pursuing a Bachelor’s in a relevant field starting in Fall of ’23 to develop the skills necessary to help people lead more fulfilling lives.
sascha@jessjonesrecreationtherapy.com
1124 Gainsborough Road London Ontario
Events by this organizer
october
01oct6:00 pm7:30 pmSocial Sprouts Junior Play Program
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 10, 2024Weekly for 4 weeksTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones Recreation TherapyRegistration: $220 + HST AUDIENCE: The
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 10, 2024
Weekly for 4 weeks
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $220 + HST
AUDIENCE: The Social Sprouts Program is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are refining their social skills, communication, and emotional understanding. It caters to parents seeking structured social development for their children, educators and childcare providers looking for supplemental social and emotional learning activities, and children needing extra social support in a safe space. The program also appeals to families interested in community engagement, offering group learning experiences, and parents of homeschooled children seeking socialization opportunities for their kids.
DESCRIPTION: The Social Sprouts Program at Jess Jones Recreation Therapy is a dynamic and engaging initiative specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. This thoughtfully crafted program is dedicated to nurturing social skills and emotional intelligence through a diverse range of enjoyable and interactive activities. Each session is meticulously planned to foster essential qualities such as communication, cooperation, and confidence among young participants.
Children enrolled in the Social Sprouts Program will engage in a variety of stimulating activities, including games, arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises. These activities are designed to provide a fun and supportive environment where children can freely express themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and develop vital interpersonal skills.
The primary goal of the Social Sprouts Program is to equip children with the foundational social skills they need to form positive relationships, effectively navigate social challenges, and thrive in their social environments. Whether your child is looking to make new friends, enhance their communication abilities, or simply enjoy a safe and inclusive space to be themselves, Social Sprouts offers a welcoming and nurturing community where every child has the opportunity to grow and shine.
In addition to fostering social skills, the program emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, teaching children how to recognize and manage their own emotions as well as empathize with others. Through engaging and interactive sessions, children learn valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the program, helping them to build a strong foundation for future success in their personal and social lives.
READ MORE: “Using Recreation to Support the Social Well-Being of Children and Youth,” published by the Institute on Community Integration, profiles inclusive recreation programs that support the social-emotional well-being of children and youth. These programs involve a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises, aiming to enhance social skills, communication abilities, and emotional intelligence in a nurturing environment. You can read the article in its entirety HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved Communication Skills: Participants will learn to express themselves effectively and listen to others, enhancing clear and respectful communication.
Enhanced Social Skills: Children will develop crucial social skills like sharing, cooperating, and conflict resolution through structured activities and free play, essential for building friendships.
Increased Emotional Intelligence: The program fosters empathy and emotional regulation by encouraging children to recognize and manage their own emotions and understand others’ feelings.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Engaging in various activities and achieving small successes helps children build self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and role-playing activities support cognitive development and problem-solving skills by allowing children to express their creativity and imagination.
more
Time
(Tuesday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
02oct6:00 pm7:30 pmSocial Sprouts Junior Play Program (October)
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024Weekly for 4 weeksTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones Recreation TherapyRegistration: $220 + HST AUDIENCE:
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024
Weekly for 4 weeks
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $220 + HST
AUDIENCE: The Social Sprouts Program is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are refining their social skills, communication, and emotional understanding. It caters to parents seeking structured social development for their children, educators and childcare providers looking for supplemental social and emotional learning activities, and children needing extra social support in a safe space. The program also appeals to families interested in community engagement, offering group learning experiences, and parents of homeschooled children seeking socialization opportunities for their kids.
DESCRIPTION: The Social Sprouts Program at Jess Jones Recreation Therapy is a dynamic and engaging initiative specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. This thoughtfully crafted program is dedicated to nurturing social skills and emotional intelligence through a diverse range of enjoyable and interactive activities. Each session is meticulously planned to foster essential qualities such as communication, cooperation, and confidence among young participants.
Children enrolled in the Social Sprouts Program will engage in a variety of stimulating activities, including games, arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises. These activities are designed to provide a fun and supportive environment where children can freely express themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and develop vital interpersonal skills.
The primary goal of the Social Sprouts Program is to equip children with the foundational social skills they need to form positive relationships, effectively navigate social challenges, and thrive in their social environments. Whether your child is looking to make new friends, enhance their communication abilities, or simply enjoy a safe and inclusive space to be themselves, Social Sprouts offers a welcoming and nurturing community where every child has the opportunity to grow and shine.
In addition to fostering social skills, the program emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, teaching children how to recognize and manage their own emotions as well as empathize with others. Through engaging and interactive sessions, children learn valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the program, helping them to build a strong foundation for future success in their personal and social lives.
READ MORE: “Using Recreation to Support the Social Well-Being of Children and Youth,” published by the Institute on Community Integration, profiles inclusive recreation programs that support the social-emotional well-being of children and youth. These programs involve a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises, aiming to enhance social skills, communication abilities, and emotional intelligence in a nurturing environment. You can read the article in its entirety HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved Communication Skills: Participants will learn to express themselves effectively and listen to others, enhancing clear and respectful communication.
Enhanced Social Skills: Children will develop crucial social skills like sharing, cooperating, and conflict resolution through structured activities and free play, essential for building friendships.
Increased Emotional Intelligence: The program fosters empathy and emotional regulation by encouraging children to recognize and manage their own emotions and understand others’ feelings.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Engaging in various activities and achieving small successes helps children build self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and role-playing activities support cognitive development and problem-solving skills by allowing children to express their creativity and imagination.
more
Time
(Wednesday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Future Event Times in this Repeating Event Series
october 9, 2024 6:00 pmoctober 16, 2024 6:00 pmoctober 23, 2024 6:00 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
03oct6:00 pm7:30 pmEpic Empowerment for Recovery
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 12, 2024Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st). Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 12, 2024
Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st).
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $450 + HST
AUDIENCE: This program is ideal for youth (13 to 19) who might benefit from engaging in structured yet creative social interactions, wish to build social skills, are interested in personal development and self-discovery through interactive and immersive experiences, and who are seeking to enhance communication and teamwork skills, which are often emphasized in role-playing games.
DESCRIPTION: The “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program is a therapeutic exercise designed to aid youth in recovery and personal development by integrating the engaging and imaginative world of tabletop role-playing games, specifically using the game Critical Core. This innovative session leverages the structured gameplay and storytelling elements of role-playing games to create a supportive environment where participants can explore personal challenges, develop social skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Through character creation and narrative exploration, participants engage in a shared fantasy world that mirrors real-life scenarios, providing opportunities for emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. The structured nature of the game allows for a safe space where individuals can confront and work through personal issues within the context of the game’s narrative. This immersion in a fictional world encourages participants to express emotions, make decisions, and experience consequences in a controlled and supportive setting.
Critical Core’s game mechanics are specifically designed to foster key therapeutic outcomes such as resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. The collaborative nature of the game promotes teamwork, as participants must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals. This not only enhances social skills but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among players.
The program also emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities. As participants navigate the challenges presented in the game, they learn to think critically, make strategic decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are directly transferable to real-life situations, helping participants to build confidence and competence in managing their own lives.
Overall, the “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program makes therapy enjoyable and deeply impactful by tapping into the creative and collaborative aspects of role-playing games. By fostering recovery, resilience, and personal growth, it provides a unique and powerful tool for supporting youth in their journey towards well-being and empowerment.
READ MORE: This article highlights how narrative therapy allows individuals to re-author their life stories, promoting emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. It discusses techniques such as externalizing problems, deconstructing dominant narratives, and creating alternative storylines. These methods provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can work through personal issues within the context of a fictional narrative, fostering a safe space for emotional exploration and decision-making. You can read the full article HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved social skills: Participants enhance communication, negotiation, and collaboration through engaging role-playing scenarios.
Enhanced problem-solving abilities: In-game challenges require critical thinking and creative solutions, reflecting real-life problem-solving.
Emotional regulation and resilience: Role-play provides a safe space for emotional expression and learning to manage emotional responses.
Stress relief and enjoyment: Engaging in enjoyable gameplay offers a break from daily stress and pressures.
Empowerment and confidence building: Achieving in-game goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, empowering participants in their daily lives.
more
Time
(Thursday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
09oct6:00 pm7:30 pmSocial Sprouts Junior Play Program (October)
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024Weekly for 4 weeksTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones Recreation TherapyRegistration: $220 + HST AUDIENCE:
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024
Weekly for 4 weeks
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $220 + HST
AUDIENCE: The Social Sprouts Program is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are refining their social skills, communication, and emotional understanding. It caters to parents seeking structured social development for their children, educators and childcare providers looking for supplemental social and emotional learning activities, and children needing extra social support in a safe space. The program also appeals to families interested in community engagement, offering group learning experiences, and parents of homeschooled children seeking socialization opportunities for their kids.
DESCRIPTION: The Social Sprouts Program at Jess Jones Recreation Therapy is a dynamic and engaging initiative specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. This thoughtfully crafted program is dedicated to nurturing social skills and emotional intelligence through a diverse range of enjoyable and interactive activities. Each session is meticulously planned to foster essential qualities such as communication, cooperation, and confidence among young participants.
Children enrolled in the Social Sprouts Program will engage in a variety of stimulating activities, including games, arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises. These activities are designed to provide a fun and supportive environment where children can freely express themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and develop vital interpersonal skills.
The primary goal of the Social Sprouts Program is to equip children with the foundational social skills they need to form positive relationships, effectively navigate social challenges, and thrive in their social environments. Whether your child is looking to make new friends, enhance their communication abilities, or simply enjoy a safe and inclusive space to be themselves, Social Sprouts offers a welcoming and nurturing community where every child has the opportunity to grow and shine.
In addition to fostering social skills, the program emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, teaching children how to recognize and manage their own emotions as well as empathize with others. Through engaging and interactive sessions, children learn valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the program, helping them to build a strong foundation for future success in their personal and social lives.
READ MORE: “Using Recreation to Support the Social Well-Being of Children and Youth,” published by the Institute on Community Integration, profiles inclusive recreation programs that support the social-emotional well-being of children and youth. These programs involve a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises, aiming to enhance social skills, communication abilities, and emotional intelligence in a nurturing environment. You can read the article in its entirety HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved Communication Skills: Participants will learn to express themselves effectively and listen to others, enhancing clear and respectful communication.
Enhanced Social Skills: Children will develop crucial social skills like sharing, cooperating, and conflict resolution through structured activities and free play, essential for building friendships.
Increased Emotional Intelligence: The program fosters empathy and emotional regulation by encouraging children to recognize and manage their own emotions and understand others’ feelings.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Engaging in various activities and achieving small successes helps children build self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and role-playing activities support cognitive development and problem-solving skills by allowing children to express their creativity and imagination.
more
Time
(Wednesday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Future Event Times in this Repeating Event Series
october 16, 2024 6:00 pmoctober 23, 2024 6:00 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
10oct6:00 pm7:30 pmEpic Empowerment for Recovery
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 12, 2024Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st). Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 12, 2024
Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st).
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $450 + HST
AUDIENCE: This program is ideal for youth (13 to 19) who might benefit from engaging in structured yet creative social interactions, wish to build social skills, are interested in personal development and self-discovery through interactive and immersive experiences, and who are seeking to enhance communication and teamwork skills, which are often emphasized in role-playing games.
DESCRIPTION: The “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program is a therapeutic exercise designed to aid youth in recovery and personal development by integrating the engaging and imaginative world of tabletop role-playing games, specifically using the game Critical Core. This innovative session leverages the structured gameplay and storytelling elements of role-playing games to create a supportive environment where participants can explore personal challenges, develop social skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Through character creation and narrative exploration, participants engage in a shared fantasy world that mirrors real-life scenarios, providing opportunities for emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. The structured nature of the game allows for a safe space where individuals can confront and work through personal issues within the context of the game’s narrative. This immersion in a fictional world encourages participants to express emotions, make decisions, and experience consequences in a controlled and supportive setting.
Critical Core’s game mechanics are specifically designed to foster key therapeutic outcomes such as resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. The collaborative nature of the game promotes teamwork, as participants must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals. This not only enhances social skills but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among players.
The program also emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities. As participants navigate the challenges presented in the game, they learn to think critically, make strategic decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are directly transferable to real-life situations, helping participants to build confidence and competence in managing their own lives.
Overall, the “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program makes therapy enjoyable and deeply impactful by tapping into the creative and collaborative aspects of role-playing games. By fostering recovery, resilience, and personal growth, it provides a unique and powerful tool for supporting youth in their journey towards well-being and empowerment.
READ MORE: This article highlights how narrative therapy allows individuals to re-author their life stories, promoting emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. It discusses techniques such as externalizing problems, deconstructing dominant narratives, and creating alternative storylines. These methods provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can work through personal issues within the context of a fictional narrative, fostering a safe space for emotional exploration and decision-making. You can read the full article HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved social skills: Participants enhance communication, negotiation, and collaboration through engaging role-playing scenarios.
Enhanced problem-solving abilities: In-game challenges require critical thinking and creative solutions, reflecting real-life problem-solving.
Emotional regulation and resilience: Role-play provides a safe space for emotional expression and learning to manage emotional responses.
Stress relief and enjoyment: Engaging in enjoyable gameplay offers a break from daily stress and pressures.
Empowerment and confidence building: Achieving in-game goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, empowering participants in their daily lives.
more
Time
(Thursday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
16oct6:00 pm7:30 pmSocial Sprouts Junior Play Program (October)
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024Weekly for 4 weeksTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones Recreation TherapyRegistration: $220 + HST AUDIENCE:
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024
Weekly for 4 weeks
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $220 + HST
AUDIENCE: The Social Sprouts Program is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are refining their social skills, communication, and emotional understanding. It caters to parents seeking structured social development for their children, educators and childcare providers looking for supplemental social and emotional learning activities, and children needing extra social support in a safe space. The program also appeals to families interested in community engagement, offering group learning experiences, and parents of homeschooled children seeking socialization opportunities for their kids.
DESCRIPTION: The Social Sprouts Program at Jess Jones Recreation Therapy is a dynamic and engaging initiative specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. This thoughtfully crafted program is dedicated to nurturing social skills and emotional intelligence through a diverse range of enjoyable and interactive activities. Each session is meticulously planned to foster essential qualities such as communication, cooperation, and confidence among young participants.
Children enrolled in the Social Sprouts Program will engage in a variety of stimulating activities, including games, arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises. These activities are designed to provide a fun and supportive environment where children can freely express themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and develop vital interpersonal skills.
The primary goal of the Social Sprouts Program is to equip children with the foundational social skills they need to form positive relationships, effectively navigate social challenges, and thrive in their social environments. Whether your child is looking to make new friends, enhance their communication abilities, or simply enjoy a safe and inclusive space to be themselves, Social Sprouts offers a welcoming and nurturing community where every child has the opportunity to grow and shine.
In addition to fostering social skills, the program emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, teaching children how to recognize and manage their own emotions as well as empathize with others. Through engaging and interactive sessions, children learn valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the program, helping them to build a strong foundation for future success in their personal and social lives.
READ MORE: “Using Recreation to Support the Social Well-Being of Children and Youth,” published by the Institute on Community Integration, profiles inclusive recreation programs that support the social-emotional well-being of children and youth. These programs involve a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises, aiming to enhance social skills, communication abilities, and emotional intelligence in a nurturing environment. You can read the article in its entirety HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved Communication Skills: Participants will learn to express themselves effectively and listen to others, enhancing clear and respectful communication.
Enhanced Social Skills: Children will develop crucial social skills like sharing, cooperating, and conflict resolution through structured activities and free play, essential for building friendships.
Increased Emotional Intelligence: The program fosters empathy and emotional regulation by encouraging children to recognize and manage their own emotions and understand others’ feelings.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Engaging in various activities and achieving small successes helps children build self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and role-playing activities support cognitive development and problem-solving skills by allowing children to express their creativity and imagination.
more
Time
(Wednesday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Future Event Times in this Repeating Event Series
october 23, 2024 6:00 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
17oct6:00 pm7:30 pmEpic Empowerment for Recovery
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 12, 2024Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st). Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 12, 2024
Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st).
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $450 + HST
AUDIENCE: This program is ideal for youth (13 to 19) who might benefit from engaging in structured yet creative social interactions, wish to build social skills, are interested in personal development and self-discovery through interactive and immersive experiences, and who are seeking to enhance communication and teamwork skills, which are often emphasized in role-playing games.
DESCRIPTION: The “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program is a therapeutic exercise designed to aid youth in recovery and personal development by integrating the engaging and imaginative world of tabletop role-playing games, specifically using the game Critical Core. This innovative session leverages the structured gameplay and storytelling elements of role-playing games to create a supportive environment where participants can explore personal challenges, develop social skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Through character creation and narrative exploration, participants engage in a shared fantasy world that mirrors real-life scenarios, providing opportunities for emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. The structured nature of the game allows for a safe space where individuals can confront and work through personal issues within the context of the game’s narrative. This immersion in a fictional world encourages participants to express emotions, make decisions, and experience consequences in a controlled and supportive setting.
Critical Core’s game mechanics are specifically designed to foster key therapeutic outcomes such as resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. The collaborative nature of the game promotes teamwork, as participants must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals. This not only enhances social skills but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among players.
The program also emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities. As participants navigate the challenges presented in the game, they learn to think critically, make strategic decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are directly transferable to real-life situations, helping participants to build confidence and competence in managing their own lives.
Overall, the “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program makes therapy enjoyable and deeply impactful by tapping into the creative and collaborative aspects of role-playing games. By fostering recovery, resilience, and personal growth, it provides a unique and powerful tool for supporting youth in their journey towards well-being and empowerment.
READ MORE: This article highlights how narrative therapy allows individuals to re-author their life stories, promoting emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. It discusses techniques such as externalizing problems, deconstructing dominant narratives, and creating alternative storylines. These methods provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can work through personal issues within the context of a fictional narrative, fostering a safe space for emotional exploration and decision-making. You can read the full article HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved social skills: Participants enhance communication, negotiation, and collaboration through engaging role-playing scenarios.
Enhanced problem-solving abilities: In-game challenges require critical thinking and creative solutions, reflecting real-life problem-solving.
Emotional regulation and resilience: Role-play provides a safe space for emotional expression and learning to manage emotional responses.
Stress relief and enjoyment: Engaging in enjoyable gameplay offers a break from daily stress and pressures.
Empowerment and confidence building: Achieving in-game goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, empowering participants in their daily lives.
more
Time
(Thursday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
23oct6:00 pm7:30 pmSocial Sprouts Junior Play Program (October)
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024Weekly for 4 weeksTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones Recreation TherapyRegistration: $220 + HST AUDIENCE:
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins Wednesday October 2, 2024
Weekly for 4 weeks
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $220 + HST
AUDIENCE: The Social Sprouts Program is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are refining their social skills, communication, and emotional understanding. It caters to parents seeking structured social development for their children, educators and childcare providers looking for supplemental social and emotional learning activities, and children needing extra social support in a safe space. The program also appeals to families interested in community engagement, offering group learning experiences, and parents of homeschooled children seeking socialization opportunities for their kids.
DESCRIPTION: The Social Sprouts Program at Jess Jones Recreation Therapy is a dynamic and engaging initiative specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. This thoughtfully crafted program is dedicated to nurturing social skills and emotional intelligence through a diverse range of enjoyable and interactive activities. Each session is meticulously planned to foster essential qualities such as communication, cooperation, and confidence among young participants.
Children enrolled in the Social Sprouts Program will engage in a variety of stimulating activities, including games, arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises. These activities are designed to provide a fun and supportive environment where children can freely express themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and develop vital interpersonal skills.
The primary goal of the Social Sprouts Program is to equip children with the foundational social skills they need to form positive relationships, effectively navigate social challenges, and thrive in their social environments. Whether your child is looking to make new friends, enhance their communication abilities, or simply enjoy a safe and inclusive space to be themselves, Social Sprouts offers a welcoming and nurturing community where every child has the opportunity to grow and shine.
In addition to fostering social skills, the program emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, teaching children how to recognize and manage their own emotions as well as empathize with others. Through engaging and interactive sessions, children learn valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the program, helping them to build a strong foundation for future success in their personal and social lives.
READ MORE: “Using Recreation to Support the Social Well-Being of Children and Youth,” published by the Institute on Community Integration, profiles inclusive recreation programs that support the social-emotional well-being of children and youth. These programs involve a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, group discussions, and role-playing exercises, aiming to enhance social skills, communication abilities, and emotional intelligence in a nurturing environment. You can read the article in its entirety HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved Communication Skills: Participants will learn to express themselves effectively and listen to others, enhancing clear and respectful communication.
Enhanced Social Skills: Children will develop crucial social skills like sharing, cooperating, and conflict resolution through structured activities and free play, essential for building friendships.
Increased Emotional Intelligence: The program fosters empathy and emotional regulation by encouraging children to recognize and manage their own emotions and understand others’ feelings.
Boosted Self-Confidence: Engaging in various activities and achieving small successes helps children build self-esteem and a positive self-image.
Creative Expression: Arts and crafts, storytelling, and role-playing activities support cognitive development and problem-solving skills by allowing children to express their creativity and imagination.
more
Time
(Wednesday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
24oct6:00 pm7:30 pmEpic Empowerment for Recovery
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 12, 2024Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st). Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 12, 2024
Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st).
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $450 + HST
AUDIENCE: This program is ideal for youth (13 to 19) who might benefit from engaging in structured yet creative social interactions, wish to build social skills, are interested in personal development and self-discovery through interactive and immersive experiences, and who are seeking to enhance communication and teamwork skills, which are often emphasized in role-playing games.
DESCRIPTION: The “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program is a therapeutic exercise designed to aid youth in recovery and personal development by integrating the engaging and imaginative world of tabletop role-playing games, specifically using the game Critical Core. This innovative session leverages the structured gameplay and storytelling elements of role-playing games to create a supportive environment where participants can explore personal challenges, develop social skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Through character creation and narrative exploration, participants engage in a shared fantasy world that mirrors real-life scenarios, providing opportunities for emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. The structured nature of the game allows for a safe space where individuals can confront and work through personal issues within the context of the game’s narrative. This immersion in a fictional world encourages participants to express emotions, make decisions, and experience consequences in a controlled and supportive setting.
Critical Core’s game mechanics are specifically designed to foster key therapeutic outcomes such as resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. The collaborative nature of the game promotes teamwork, as participants must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals. This not only enhances social skills but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among players.
The program also emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities. As participants navigate the challenges presented in the game, they learn to think critically, make strategic decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are directly transferable to real-life situations, helping participants to build confidence and competence in managing their own lives.
Overall, the “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program makes therapy enjoyable and deeply impactful by tapping into the creative and collaborative aspects of role-playing games. By fostering recovery, resilience, and personal growth, it provides a unique and powerful tool for supporting youth in their journey towards well-being and empowerment.
READ MORE: This article highlights how narrative therapy allows individuals to re-author their life stories, promoting emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. It discusses techniques such as externalizing problems, deconstructing dominant narratives, and creating alternative storylines. These methods provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can work through personal issues within the context of a fictional narrative, fostering a safe space for emotional exploration and decision-making. You can read the full article HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved social skills: Participants enhance communication, negotiation, and collaboration through engaging role-playing scenarios.
Enhanced problem-solving abilities: In-game challenges require critical thinking and creative solutions, reflecting real-life problem-solving.
Emotional regulation and resilience: Role-play provides a safe space for emotional expression and learning to manage emotional responses.
Stress relief and enjoyment: Engaging in enjoyable gameplay offers a break from daily stress and pressures.
Empowerment and confidence building: Achieving in-game goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, empowering participants in their daily lives.
more
Time
(Thursday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Organizer
Sasha Maurer, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Assistant
31oct6:00 pm7:30 pmEpic Empowerment for Recovery
Event Details
DETAILS:Begins September 12, 2024Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st). Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.Location: Jess Jones
Event Details
DETAILS:
Begins September 12, 2024
Weekly for 8 weeks (No session scheduled on October 31st).
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jess Jones Recreation Therapy
Registration: $450 + HST
AUDIENCE: This program is ideal for youth (13 to 19) who might benefit from engaging in structured yet creative social interactions, wish to build social skills, are interested in personal development and self-discovery through interactive and immersive experiences, and who are seeking to enhance communication and teamwork skills, which are often emphasized in role-playing games.
DESCRIPTION: The “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program is a therapeutic exercise designed to aid youth in recovery and personal development by integrating the engaging and imaginative world of tabletop role-playing games, specifically using the game Critical Core. This innovative session leverages the structured gameplay and storytelling elements of role-playing games to create a supportive environment where participants can explore personal challenges, develop social skills, and enhance problem-solving abilities.
Through character creation and narrative exploration, participants engage in a shared fantasy world that mirrors real-life scenarios, providing opportunities for emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. The structured nature of the game allows for a safe space where individuals can confront and work through personal issues within the context of the game’s narrative. This immersion in a fictional world encourages participants to express emotions, make decisions, and experience consequences in a controlled and supportive setting.
Critical Core’s game mechanics are specifically designed to foster key therapeutic outcomes such as resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. The collaborative nature of the game promotes teamwork, as participants must work together to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals. This not only enhances social skills but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among players.
The program also emphasizes the development of problem-solving abilities. As participants navigate the challenges presented in the game, they learn to think critically, make strategic decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills are directly transferable to real-life situations, helping participants to build confidence and competence in managing their own lives.
Overall, the “Epic Empowerment for Recovery” program makes therapy enjoyable and deeply impactful by tapping into the creative and collaborative aspects of role-playing games. By fostering recovery, resilience, and personal growth, it provides a unique and powerful tool for supporting youth in their journey towards well-being and empowerment.
READ MORE: This article highlights how narrative therapy allows individuals to re-author their life stories, promoting emotional expression, teamwork, and empowerment. It discusses techniques such as externalizing problems, deconstructing dominant narratives, and creating alternative storylines. These methods provide a structured yet creative environment where participants can work through personal issues within the context of a fictional narrative, fostering a safe space for emotional exploration and decision-making. You can read the full article HERE.
OUTCOMES:
Improved social skills: Participants enhance communication, negotiation, and collaboration through engaging role-playing scenarios.
Enhanced problem-solving abilities: In-game challenges require critical thinking and creative solutions, reflecting real-life problem-solving.
Emotional regulation and resilience: Role-play provides a safe space for emotional expression and learning to manage emotional responses.
Stress relief and enjoyment: Engaging in enjoyable gameplay offers a break from daily stress and pressures.
Empowerment and confidence building: Achieving in-game goals boosts self-esteem and confidence, empowering participants in their daily lives.
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Time
(Thursday) 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm