Center Youth and Family Voice: Wellness Event Activities (LIVE from #BeyondSchoolHours)

I'm so grateful to Casey Jones for inviting me back to Foundations, Inc. this year to present two sessions focused on centering youth and family voice.

I based these sessions on some of my favorite tools from our Kohl's Healthy at Home resource hub including 9 Best Practices for Planning a School Event with Community Partners.

My goal was for attendees to leave with new ideas to engage families and youth during events, health fairs, and even Afterschool Alliance Lights On Afterschool.

Connection. Collaboration. Creativity. Calm.

My favorite feedback from attendees: the session was felt calm and strategies focused on inexpensive activities using easily accessible materials. The art and movement based activities also emphasized connection and collaboration.

Below are the prompts I used during the sessions with supplies bolded.

1. Make a DIY "fit stick" using popsicle sticks and markers. Take turns teaching to the class (doing each as a group). We focused on stretches and restorative activities.

2. Pick a few colors of air-dry modelling clay to create a sculpture that represents something you love. Optional: share with the group.

3. Work as table to create a palm tree using only pipe cleaners in 15 minutes.

4. Consider yourself as a recipe - what makes you, you? Create a recipe card using a blank index card. Share in pairs.

5. Mix and mingle as a group to share and connect - adding a little sway as you move around the room.

6. Use the available ingredients (dried fruit, seeds, cereal) to create a DIY trail mix pack. Fill a snack size bag and enjoy. I also provided spoons, sanitizer, and bowls.

7. Go for a "rainbow walk" (outside or by a window) to find something in every color of the rainbow. Use blank bookmarks and tassels to create a take home reminder of how nature can support your wellbeing.

8. Make a nametag (using a roll of "Hello, I'm..." tags) to tell us something about yourself. Draw or write words, but don't put your name. Mix and mingle and share.