2019-2020 rEcess Curriculum by 99 Balloons

CURRICULUM 2019-2020

Curriculum Contents Each month contains the following curriculum contents: + CHURCH SPOTLIGHT Info and insights from churches hosting rEcess sites

+ CRAFT Materials list, instructions, and photos for art activities

+ VOLUNTEER HUDDLE Helpful strategies and reminders for equipping volunteers

+ LARGE GROUP ACTIVITY Materials list and instructions for large group games

+ HIGHLIGHT Disability education and information on 99 Balloons projects and partnerships around the world

+ MOVIE Suggested theme- and ageappropriate movie choices + RECESS REPORT A place to record important info about your rEcess site

A Note from 99 Balloons

I N T RO

rEcess Directors— Our theme for the 2019-2020 rEcess year is “Different Does Not Equal Less.” rEcess proclaims the worth and image-bearing beauty of each and every human being. As Paul states in 1 Corinthians 12, “Now you are the body of Christ and each one of you is part of it.” We celebrate the differences in one another and believe those differences are beautiful, purposeful, and necessary for the body of Christ. We are better together! Currently, we have 50 rEcess sites in the US, Canada, and Australia. As you explore this year’s curriculum, we hope you will remember that you are not alone. We have an incredible 99 Balloons community, and we pray you are encouraged each month as you read about fellow rEcess sites and their experiences. You will see the faces of their rEcess kids, siblings, volunteers, and leadership team. We are all on the same mission—to build inclusive communities so that every person with a disability and their family can live a full life within relationships. We received an email earlier this year from a family that has been a part of rEcess for six years. A twelve-year-old sibling shared that when she

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grows up, she wants to do disability ministry at a church. Because of the way she and her family have been loved and served, she desires to minister to families experiencing disability in the future. Her mother stated, “rEcess makes a difference in so many lives and in so many ways. rEcess is impacting the future as it raises up the next generation of selfless servants that desire to love on children with special needs.” What a beautiful reminder that the work you are doing now is laying the foundation for change in the future. Be encouraged! As 99 Balloons heads into the twelfth year of providing rEcess, we are grateful for your partnership and faithfulness to serve those that are often unseen or uninvited. We continue to stand in awe of the life change happening because you consistently invite families experiencing disability into your lives, buildings, and communities. We are here for you and with you! Thank you!

Rebecca Wall

Programs Director, 99 Balloons

Monthly Activity Ideas

Monthly Materials List

I N T RO

INDOOR SUGGESTIONS

+ SEPTEMBER

++ Sensory Bins

++ Popular Card Games

• Play-Doh

• Uno

• Beads

• Old Maid

• Sand

• Matching Games

• Squishy toys

• War

• Marbles

• Slap Jack

++ Manicure Station

• Go Fish

++ Face painting ++ Dance room

OUTDOOR SUGGESTIONS

++ Hula Hoops

++ Sidewalk chalk

++ Parachutes

++ Water table

++ Game room

++ Sports balls

++ Popular Board Games

++ Playground

• Twister • Sorry • Connect Four • Heads Up • Candyland • Guess Who

++ Bubbles

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+ NOVEMBER

Craft 1 Pre-cut fingers, popsicle sticks, tape, crayons, markers

Craft 1 Leaves, Googly eyes, Popsicle sticks, glue, paint (or chalk pens)

Craft 2 Brown and white construction paper, Q-tips, black paint, glue

Craft 2 Pre-flattened leaves, white paper, colored pencils, construction paper, tape, glue, scissors

Large Group Pre-cut “footballs”, crayons, markers, scissors, tape, painter’s tape, digital photo of the Heisman pose

Large Group Apples, bucket, water, 3 large pumpkins, embroidery hoop (or rope and duct tape), Hula hoop

Movie Air Bud: Golden Receiver

Movie Trolls, Up

+ OCTOBER Craft 1 Paper plates, white and pink cardstock paper, black and brown paint, black pen, scissors, glue Craft 2 Multi-colored ink pads, white construction paper, black fine-point pens Large Group Western music Movie Charlotte’s Web, Chicken Run, Babe

+ DECEMBER Craft 1 Gift tags with a hole punch, ribbon, crayons, markers, glitter (optional) Craft 2 Popsicle sticks, markers, red pom-poms, googly eyes, ribbon, hot glue gun Large Group 20 empty boxes wrapped in Christmas paper, 2 floor scooters, 4 straws, 10 cotton balls, 1 stocking filled with small Christmas items, 1 poster board, 24 small gifts, 24 small cups, Red and green tissue paper, tape Movie The Grinch, The Star

I N T RO

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8 —

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Craft 1 Pre-cut black construction paper frames, contact paper (2 sheets per child), black construction paper die-cut snowflake, pre-cut 1” tissue paper squares (blues and whites) Craft 2 Shredded white paper, googly eyes, orange/ red/black/black construction paper, black pom-poms, glue, pre-cut black top hats Large group Snowballs (white paper or newspaper snowballs), music Movie Frozen, Happy Feet

+ MARCH Craft 1 Paper plates, crayons, markers, Popsicle sticks, small magnets (2 per child), hot glue gun, mini paper car or train (1 per child)

Craft 1 Paper towel (or toilet paper), styrofoam ball, tin foil, construction paper, jewels, scissors, white glue, hot glue gun

Craft 2 Paper plates, tissue paper, glue, white and black cardstock, stapler

Craft 2 Pre-cut stars, black construction paper, white washable paint, stickers

Large Group 2 pool innertubes, masking tape, butcher paper, 1 piece of plywood, matchbox cars

Large Group Microphones, music, stage

Movie Car 1, Cars 2, Cars 3

+ APRIL + FEBRUARY Craft 1 White cardstock, brown/red/pink/purple paint, tissue paper, pencil Craft 2 String, assorted beads

+ MAY

Craft 1 Paper towel (or toilet paper) tube, red/yellow/ orange tissue paper, scissors, glue Craft 2 Large paper plate, green construction paper, pre-cut paper leaves, tape, scissors, glue

Large Group Recycled 16-oz soda bottles, heart-shaped bracelets or Valentine bracelets

Large Group 8 pool noodles, duct tape, 6 bean bags, 6 buckets, 6 rings, 6 bottles (or bowling pins), printable Olympic medal, ribbon

Movie Lady and the Tramp, Gnomeo and Juliet

Movie The Incredibles

Movie Sing, Coco, Mary Poppins

+ BONUS MONTH Craft 1 Paper plates, streamers or crepe paper, crayons, watercolor paints, glue, scissors Craft 2 Construction paper, small sea shells and/or jewels, tape, glue Large Group Sheet, chairs and/or table, clothespins, prizes or fish, fishing pole or stick, yarn Movie Finding Nemo, Finding Dory, The Little Mermaid

I N T RO

+ JANUARY

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AU G U S T

I N T RO

August

August Checklist

AU G U S T

TO DO Send rEcess dates to 99 Balloons. Send updated list of your leadership team to 99 Balloons. Add your rEcess events to the rEcess HUB. Reserve location for monthly rEcess events.

rEcess Planning SUGGESTIONS Send a “Save the Date” email or postcard to families and volunteers with rEcess dates for 2019-2020. Make a plan for feeding your volunteers at each rEcess event. Schedule a photographer to snap quality pictures of your rEcess this year.

Refill your rEcess First-aid kit. Print off Medication Consent & Incident Report forms. Secure a Medical Professional for each rEcess event.

Purchase or replace rEcess signage on our website: www.99balloons.org/shop. Are you on the Disability Ministry Locator website? If not, input your church’s information here: www.abilityministry.com/disability-ministry-locator/

Assign a leadership member to be the All In with rEcess representative for October. Our All In with rEcess site representative is .

NEW FAMILIES? Make sure new families submit their Parent Packet. Make sure medical Professional reviews new Parent Packets.

NEW VOLUNTEERS? Train new leadership team members. Background check new volunteers. Order t-shirts for new leadership team members and volunteers on our website: www.99balloons.org/shop.

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rEcess Planning

AU G U S T

THE

SHOP

VIST 99BALLOONS.ORG/SHOP TO SEE NEW SHIRTS FOR A NEW YEAR! +

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SEPTEMBER

I N T RO

September

Highlights

ASSIGNMENTS

SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

99 Balloons Fayetteville, Arkansas

TONIGHT’S INFO

Discuss the night’s theme, crafts, schedule, and any specific information that volunteers need to know to help the night run smoothly. Make sure to identify the nurse and toileting person for the evening.

EQUIPPING

Ben Yates

OFFICE DIRECTOR YEARS AT RECESS: 3 — Director’s Tip: College students make great volunteers! When looking for volunteers, consider contacting local colleges to see if they have programs that require volunteer hours such as: nursing students, PT/OT/SLP, or Greek system students.

Matt Mooney

FOUNDER YEARS AT RECESS: 12 — Director’s Tip: Have your nurse and toileting person(s) sit at a designated “Hub” table where you keep the parent packets, first aid kit, and medication. This makes it easy to find these people and information throughout the night!

Rebecca Wall

PROGRAMS DIRECTOR YEARS AT RECESS: 9 — Director’s Tip: I recommend having one or two leadership members out in the parking lot welcoming families while simultaneously texting that family’s name to a leadership member at check-in. This is helpful because you can inform volunteers that their family has arrived as well as greet each family by name at check-in!

Seth Duell

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR YEARS AT RECESS: 6 — Director’s Tip: Be flexible! Even with an awesome plan for the night, there are always surprises.

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

No Assumptions Persons experiencing disability are not defined by their disability. At rEcess, we do not assume our friends need help or decide if they can or cannot do something. Simply ask the individual how you can help, what they need, or what would be best for them. Everyone has preferences, so be considerate and ask! Did You Know? Our friends with Down Syndrome are living longer than ever! In 1983, the average life expectancy for a person with Down Syndrome was 25 years old. Today, persons with Down Syndrome live to be in their 60s.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT All In Education 99 Balloons’ All In Education sponsorship program provides education to children in Haiti, Uganda, and South Asia. 9 in 10 children experiencing disability in developing countries do not attend school. Education provides our students with relationships, personal development of knowledge and skills, and the opportunity to be known and seen within their communities.

19 — SEPTEMBER

Volunteer Huddle

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Activities: Friday Night Lights LARGE GROUP

Football Finger Materials ++ Pre-cut hand ++ Popsicle sticks ++ Tape ++ Crayons ++ Markers

Pin the Football on the Goal Post Materials ++ Pre-cut footballs ++ Crayons ++ Markers ++ Scissors ++ Tape ++ Painter’s tape

Instructions 1. Pre-cut the hand. 2. Decorate the hand. 3. Tape the hand to the popsicle stick.

CRAFT 2 Q-Tip Painted Football Materials ++ Brown and white construction paper ++ Q-tips ++ Black paint ++ Glue

Instructions 1. Use painter’s tape to make a goal post on the wall and pre-cut footballs for the children to use for this game. 2. Have the children color, decorate, and write their name on the front of their football. 3. Loop a piece of tape on the back of the football. 4. Blindfold one child at a time and have them attempt to place the football between the goal posts. Allow everyone to participate and assist when necessary. 5. Celebrate the winners!

Heisman Pose Competition Materials ++ Digital photo of Heisman pose Instructions 1. Display a picture of the Heisman pose on a screen if possible. If not, model the pose for the group. 2. Have each child can pick a college football team that they want to be associated with when they win the Heisman. 3. Assign someone to be the announcer who will announce each child and their team. Make this exciting and fun! 4. When their name is called, they will come up and do the Heisman pose. Have a photographer take photos of each child. 5. The announcer will determine which child had the best Heisman pose!

MOVIE Air Bud: Golden Receiver

Instructions 1. Pre-cut footballs out of the brown construction paper. 2. Pre-cut white strips to go on the football. 3. Glue the white strips of paper on the brown football. 4. Dip the Q-tip into the black paint to decorate the football.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

SEPTEMBER

CRAFT 1

rEcess Report I love rEcess because of the smiles on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faces when they run through the door. Also, I love seeing the relationships formed between rEcess volunteers and kids.

rEcess date

Number of children with disabilities

Ben Yates, Office Director

I love to see first-time volunteers come in fearful and leave having had their perspective shift dramatically. rEcess does this without trying.

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Matt Mooney, Founder

I have seen struggling marriages begin to thrive because of rEcess. It is such a gift for rEcess parents to have undivided time together, to be refreshed, to spend time with their spouse, and to remember that they are not alone. Rebecca Wall, Programs Director

I have seen rEcess change lives because community is being born around each and every event. Seth Duell, Development Director

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

SEPTEMBER

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25 — 24 —

O C TO B E R

I N T RO

October

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

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ASSIGNMENTS

OCTOBER HIGHLIGHT

O C TO B E R

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Indian Springs Baptist Church BRYANT, ARKANSAS

Director Tip: Do your best to develop guidelines to steer your program and be ready to adapt when necessary. Sometimes if we stick too closely to the “rules,” we miss the beauty revealed through individual circumstances.

Terri Cowell

RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at ISCB: 7 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 28

Why rEcess? We have seen the grateful, tired, overwhelmed, and excited expressions of parents as they drop off their kids. We’ve also seen parents have to coax their children out of the building! It’s been exciting to see siblings develop relationships with each other and continue to come to rEcess long after they are old enough to stay at home unattended.

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Visual Impairment Always introduce yourself to someone who is visually impaired. It is appropriate to remind them who you are and how you know one another. When assisting someone who is visually impaired, offer your arm as a way to help guide them. Always communicate clearly to them about what is happening around them and how you are going to help them. Did You Know? When you are communicating with someone who is visually impaired, it is important to say their name. Saying their name is similar to making eye contact with them.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT All In with rEcess Challenge All of our rEcess sites will participate in our “All In with rEcess” challenge to sponsor several months of school for children experiencing disability in Haiti, Uganda, and South Asia. We need YOU to provide the opportunity for children experiencing disability to go school! Any amount helps us reach our goal! It costs $33 a month to sponsor a child through our All In Education program. Throughout the month of October, we challenge your rEcess site to provide as many months of education as possible to support our global partners. Let’s change the story of disability together! See the “All In with rEcess” insert in order to provide your volunteers with more information.

Activities: On the Farm

O C TO B E R

CRAFT 1

LARGE GROUP

Cow Paper Plates Materials ++ Paper plates ++ White and pink cardstock paper ++ Black and brown paint ++ Black pen ++ Scissors ++ Glue

Square Dance Materials ++ Western music

Instructions 1. Print template for parts of the cow. 2. Cut out the mouth, nose, ears, and horns. 3. Color the part of the cow and glue them on the plate. 4. Use black pen to make eyes and black patches/spots.

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Instructions 1. Assign the “caller” for the dance. 2. Have the kids form a circle and hold hands. 3. Have two adult volunteers stand in the center of the circle and demonstrate simple moves: • Hold both hands while moving in a circle • Hold one hand and circle in one direction, then switch hands and switch directions • Hold hands and step toward one another and then step away 4. After demonstrating the simple moves, play some fun Western music and have the “caller” shout the moves for the kids to do.

CRAFT 2

MOVIE

Thumb Print Farm Animals ++ Multi-colored ink pads ++ White construction paper ++ Fine-point black pens

Charlotte’s Web Chicken Run Babe

Instructions 1. Allow the children to press their thumb onto a colored ink pad. 2. Press the finger onto white construction paper. 3. Use the fine-point pen to add eyes, legs, tails, and other details to turn the thumb print into a sheep, cow, pig, etc.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

O C TO B E R

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rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen a new generation of advocates grow and develop as our volunteers fall in love with individuals of all abilities. Terri Cowell, rEcess Director

S ECPTO O T EBME B RE R

rEcess date

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N OV E M B E R

I N T RO

November

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

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ASSIGNMENTS

NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHT

N OV E M B E R

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Watermark Community Church Dallas, Texas

Rachael Delph RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess AT WCC: 7 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 30

Director Tip: Focus on relationships with your families and volunteers as well as setting up a strong leadership team. The rest is simply details that can be figured out along the way! Why rEcess? rEcess has changed lives by giving parents a safe place to leave their kids. They have a chance to reconnect, relax, and be refreshed. I have seen parents form relationships and band together to love and care for their kids and themselves!

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

People First Language At rEcess, we speak with People First Language. We do not identify our friends by their disability. We identify them as a human being first, and if necessary, we mention their different ability. This is so important to our friends with disability and their families. When we use people first language, it shows a deep amount of respect and understanding. • Instead of “Down Syndrome girl” say “girl with Down Syndrome.” • Instead of “Autistic man,” say “man with Autism.” Instead of saying “wheelchair bound,” say “uses a wheelchair.” Did You Know? To gain the attention of someone who is hearing impaired, tap the individual’s arm or flicker the lights. Both of these actions are universal signs amongst the deaf community.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT Haiti For the past 5 years, 99 Balloons has partnered with a school in Haiti to provide education for children experiencing disability. This school provides therapy services as well. Currently, we have 11 All In Education sponsorships provided for children to go to school. Annually, we send a team of professionals to Haiti to train local teachers and provide support to the school. If you are interested in learning more about our work in Haiti, visit www.99balloons.org/global-trips.

Activities: Autumn is Awesome!

N OV E M B E R

CRAFT 1

CRAFT 2

LARGE GROUP

MOVIE

Leaf Puppets Materials ++ Leaves ++ Googly eyes ++ Popsicle sticks ++ Glue ++ Paint (or chalk pens)

Leaf Rubbing Materials ++ Pre-flattened leaves ++ White paper ++ Colored pencils ++ Construction paper ++ Tape ++ Glue ++ Scissors

Bobbing for Apples Materials ++ Apples ++ Bucket ++ Water

Trolls

Instructions 1. Pick a leaf to decorate. 2. Decorate the leaf to look like a person, owl, or another animal. 3. Glue the leaf onto a Popsicle stick. 4. Write the child’s name on the back of the Popsicle stick.

Instructions 1. Pre-flatten leaves inside the pages of a large, heavy book overnight. 2. Place the leaves on a piece of white paper. 3. Lay another piece of white paper on top on the leaves. 4. Use colored pencils to color over each leaf. Do not press too hard or you won’t see the details of the leaf well. 5. Take your paper off of the top and cut around the leaves. 6. Glue the leaf collage onto construction paper. 7. Decorate your leaf collage.

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Instructions 1. Fill bucket(s) ⅔ full of water. 2. Place several apples in the water. 3. Each child will put their hands behind their back and try to grab an apple with their mouth. 4. Take turns so everyone has a chance to bob for an apple! Ring the Pumpkin Materials ++ 3 large pumpkins ++ Embroidery hoop (or rope and duct tape) ++ Hula hoop Instructions 5. Line up three large pumpkins with stems to form a ring toss. 6. Use embroidery hoops or make hoops with rope and duct tape. 7. Mark a throwing line on the floor and take turns trying to ring a pumpkin stem. 8. Smaller children can attempt to ring an entire large pumpkin with a hula-hoop.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

N OV E M B E R

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rEcess Report

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rEcess date

N OV E M B E R

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com

+ rEcess has shaped our community because peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes have been opened to see and understand disability. Also, it has opened doors for access and visibility of persons with disabilities within the church. Rachael Delph, rEcess Director

rEcess notes

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S EEC D P TE EMMBBE ERR

I N T RO

September December

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

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ASSIGNMENTS

DECEMBER HIGHLIGHT

D EC E M B E R

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

First Christian Church Canton, Ohio

George White

RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at FCC: 1.5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 29 Director’s Tip: It is so beneficial for each kid (with a disability or sibling) in attendance to have a buddy. Even if you get a lot of kids signed up, fight to find enough volunteers to match them 1-1. It makes the kids feel extra special!

Why rEcess? rEcess has shaped our community in two ways. Parents who have children with disabilities are getting rest and strengthening their marriages. Additionally, volunteers are expanding their worldviews by developing a new and genuine relationship with a child with a disability. Because of rEcess, there will be a direct and positive impact on the way people with disabilities are treated in our community.

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Tone of Voice At rEcess, we want to make sure we are speaking with an appropriate tone of voice. There is no reason to raise your voice or speak slowly when communicating with someone experiencing disability. If you are talking to a teenager, speak to them like you would any other teenager. If you are talking to an adult, speak to them like you would any other adult. Remember, keep your communication style the same and enjoy getting to know our amazing friends! Did You Know? Many people with cerebral palsy experience hearing loss. When speaking to someone with cerebral palsy, speak clearly and allow them to see your face in case they have any form of hearing loss.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT Uganda Next month, we will send a team of professionals to visit our partners in Uganda. 99 Balloons provides 22 All In Education sponsorships to help children with special needs reach their highest potential. We have partnered with this organization for seven years. They have a center that provides residential care, community care, and special education. If you are interested in learning more about our work in Uganda, visit www.99balloons.org/global-trips.

Activities: A Holly, Jolly Christmas!

D EC E M B E R

CRAFT 1

LARGE GROUP

Gift Tags Materials ++ Gift tags with a hole punch ++ Ribbon ++ Crayons ++ Markers ++ Glitter (optional)

Christmas Game Show Materials ++ 20 empty boxes wrapped in Christmas paper ++ 2 floor scooters ++ 4 straws ++ 10 cotton balls ++ 1 stocking filled with small Christmas items ++ 1 poster board ++ 24 small gifts ++ 24 small cups ++ Red and green tissue paper ++ Tape

Instructions 1. Give each child a gift tag that is already hole-punched. 2. Kids will decorate their gift tags. 3. Put ribbon through hole and tie.

CRAFT 2 Reindeer Ornament Materials ++ Popsicle sticks ++ Markers ++ Red pom poms ++ Googly eyes ++ Ribbon ++ Hot glue gun Instructions 1. Make a triangular shape reindeer with the Popsicle sticks and glue. 2. Color your reindeer. 3. Add one pom for the nose. 4. Add the googly eyes. 5. Tie the ribbon on the reindeer for easy-hang ornament.

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Game 1: Present Stacking 1. Wrap approximately 20 empty boxes of different sizes 2. Kids stack their allotted boxes on their sides (or ends for difficulty) 3. The first person to correctly stack their boxes gets to get a prize from the Prize Tree. Game 2: Sled Racing 1. Two kids use floor scooters to race down a hallway and back. 2. Allow the kids to continue taking turns to race their scooters. 3. The winners get to get a prize from the Prize Tree.

Game 3: Stocking Guessing Game 1. Purchase random Christmas items from the dollar store (ie cookie cutters, ornaments, candy canes, snow globes, bells, etc.) 2. Fill a stocking with the items. 3. Call several children to feel the outside of the stocking and make a guess as to how many object are inside of the stocking. 4. The child who guesses the most correct objects get a prize from the Prize Tree. Game 4: Snow Blowers 1. Pick two children to play this game. 2. Give each child a straw and three cotton balls. 3. Tape a finish line at one end of the table. 4. The kids will start at one end of the table and race to blow one cotton ball at a time across the finish line. 5. The first child to get all three cotton balls across wins the game. Prize Tree Each winner of the games gets to pick from the prize tree. Tiny ornaments/prizes are put into cups with green and red tissue paper taped around the cup opening to secure the prize. Tape the cups to a poster board in the shape of a tree. The winners will poke open a cup to reveal their Christmas prize.

MOVIE The Grinch The Star

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

D EC E M B E R

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rEcess Report

47 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

rEcess date

D EC E M B E R

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

Our volunteers and leadership team have grown closer in friendship and trust. We look forward to spending time together each month and creating a fun environment for the kids! Many of our volunteers engage with a child with a disability for the very first time. This is breaking down previous assumptions about the disability community. George White, rEcess Director

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

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JA N UA RY

I N T RO

January

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

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ASSIGNMENTS

JANUARY HIGHLIGHT

JA N UA RY

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Brentwood Baptist Church Brentwood, Tennessee

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Age Approrpiate Interaction Our friends with disability want to be treated appropriately for their biological age. Regardless of a child’s mental age or physical ability, we always interact with our friends in an age-appropriate way. If you are paired with a teenager, plan activities or have conversations that you would typically have with a teenager. Remember, we always want to make sure our physical interactions are above reproach and appropriate for the individual’s age. Did You Know? People with intellectual disabilities are seven times more likely to experience sexual assault than those without disabilities. It is so important to maintain appropriate and safe boundaries as you interact with our friends with disabilities. At rEcess, our “Never Alone” policy helps to prevent any potential danger for our friends.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT

Ellie Axford

RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at BBC: 6 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 17

Director Tip: It can be a lot of work, but God always works out every detail to make our nights a success! The impact rEcess has on our kids and their families is worth every second of preparation to make the night run smoothly! Why rEcess? I love rEcess because so many amazing volunteers give up their Friday night to help others. It is amazing to see volunteers from teens to 70-year olds come together to do their part to make the night a success.

Notable 99 Balloons has produced a documentary series, Notable: Uganda and Notable: Central Asia. Both of these documentaries chronicle the reality of disability in other countries in order to raise awareness and share stories that have long been silenced. We invite you to view or host a screening of Notable. We believe these people and their stories will stay with you long after you have watched the films and will shift your understanding of living with a disability in developing countries. Visit www.99balloons.org/notable to learn more!

Activities: Winter Wonderland

JA N UA RY

CRAFT 1

CRAFT 2

LARGE GROUP

Stained Glass Snowflake Materials ++ Pre-cut black construction paper frames ++ Contact paper (2 sheets per child) ++ Black construction paper die-cut or cut-out snowflake ++ Pre-cut 1” tissue paper squares (blues/whites)

Shredded Paper Snowman Materials ++ Shredded white paper ++ Black top hat cut-out ++ Googly eyes ++ Orange, red, black construction paper ++ Black pom poms ++ Glue ++ Blue construction paper

Snowball Fight Materials ++ Snowballs (newspaper, white construction paper, or purchase online) ++ Trash can

Instructions 1. Put the frame on one piece of the contact paper and lay on the table sticky side up. 2. Place the snowflake in the middle of the frame. 3. Place individual pieces of tissue paper all over the contact paper. 4. When full, place the other side of contact paper, sticky side down, onto the frame. 5. Trim around the edges.

Instructions 1. Pre-shred paper. 2. Put glue on the blue construction paper in the snowman shape (3 circles). 3. Put the shredded paper on 3 glue circles. 4. Add the top hat. 5. Cut out arm the snowman’s arms, nose, and mouth and glue them on the snowman. 6. Glue the eyes on the snowman. 7. Glue the snowman’s buttons.

53 —

Instructions 1. Gather the snowballs into two piles. 2. All of the volunteers and kids get on two different teams. 3. Children will grab snowballs from their team’s pile. 4. Have a snowball fight! Freeze Dance Materials ++ Music Instructions 1. Assign two judges for Freeze Dance. 2. Play music and allow children to dance. 3. Once the music stops, the children will freeze in place. 4. The judges will tap the children who do not stop dancing for them to exit the game.

MOVIE Frozen Happy Feet

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

S EN JA P UA TEM RYB E R

52 —

rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

We love that rEcess is not restricted to our church members. Also, we love that those currently involved with rEcess can reach out to their friends from school or therapies and invite them. We have had several families feel comfortable with rEcess and then join our church body. Ellie Axford, rEcess Director

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

S EN JA P UA TEM RYB E R

rEcess date

55 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

57 — 56 —

FE B RUA RY

I N T RO

February

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

59 —

ASSIGNMENTS

FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHT

FE B RUA RY

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Christ Community Church Fayetteville, Arkansas

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Non-verbal Communication While spending time with our friends who are non-verbal, it is important to still converse and interact with them. Just because an individual may be non-verbal, he or she is still able to hear and understand what is being said to and around them. If the individual uses a device or signs, start with easy to answer questions to help you understand their form of communication. Tell your friend about your day or share a personal story. Keep conversations positive and inclusive! Did You Know? 15% of the world’s population lives with a disability which equates to over 1 billion people world-wide. Persons experiencing disability are among the most marginalized people groups. 99 Balloons seeks to change this story by proclaiming the worth and image-bearing beauty of each and every human being.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT

Kristy Harter

RECESS LEADERSHIP TEAM — Years of rEcess at CCC: 2 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 10

Director Tip: Be flexible! Every rEcess night will be a bit different. Also, we think that feeding your volunteers is just as important as training your volunteers. Why rEcess? We hear from our rEcess families that their kids are excited to come to rEcess, and it relieves a lot of stress from their lives. It is so special to serve the families experiencing disability within our church and community.

Engage Conference On April 4th, 99 Balloons will host their annual disability conference, the Engage Conference. Churches, disability ministers, parents, and those seeking to build inclusive communities will gather in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to continue the important conversation of disability, inclusion, and the church. We would love to have you and your families attend this conference! Visit www.99balloons.org for more information.

Activities: Can You Feel the Love Tonight?

FE B RUA RY

CRAFT 1

LARGE GROUP

Fingerprint Heart Tree Materials ++ White cardstock ++ Brown, red, pink, and purple paint ++ Tissue paper ++ Pencil

Put a Ring on It Materials ++ Recycled 16-oz soda bottles ++ Heart-shaped bracelets or Valentine bracelets

Instructions 1. On white cardstock paper, trace around the child’s hand with a pencil. 2. Create an arm outline with brown paint. 3. Apply colored paint directly to the tip of child’s finger. 4. Press the painted fingertip down firmly onto the cardstock at a slight angle. 5. Repeat the former step and join the two prints to create a ‘heart’ shape. 6. Fill the tree using various color combination with fingerprint hearts.

CRAFT 2 Friendship Necklace Materials ++ String ++ Assorted beads Instructions 1. You and your buddy will make a necklace for one another! 2. Measure the string to make a necklace. 3. Tie a knot on one end of the string. 4. Place beads on the string to complete your necklace. 5. Tie a knot on the other end of the necklace.

61 —

Instructions 1. Fill bucket(s) ⅔ full of water. 2. Place several apples in the water. 3. Each child will put their hands behind their back and try to grab an apple with their mouth. 4. Take turns so everyone has a chance to bob for an apple! rEcess Loves to Dance Materials ++ Playlist of love-themed songs Suggestions: “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?,” “What Makes You Beautiful,” and “Can’t Stop This Feeling!”

Instructions 1. Make a playlist of some kid-friendly songs. You can have fun with the Valentine’s Day theme and find songs about love. 2. Have fun and show off your dance moves!

MOVIE Lady and the Tramp Gnomeo and Juliet

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

FE B RUA RY

60 —

rEcess Report

63 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

rEcess date

FE B RUA RY

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com

We love getting to see our church be so involved in the rEcess process. rEcess is bigger than just our leadership team. Without our volunteers, our families, and our church, we would not be able to make rEcess happen. Kristy Harter, rEcess Leadership Teaem

rEcess notes

65 — 64 —

S EAPRC M T EHM B E R

I N T RO

September March

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

67 —

ASSIGNMENTS

MARCH HIGHLIGHT

M A RC H

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Salem Alliance Church Salem, Oregon

Katherine Johnston

RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at SAC: 2.5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 12

Director’s Tip: Make your volunteer dinners a priority. It builds such camaraderie among the team. Why rEcess? We love rEcess because kids get to be kids. Kids get to choose how they spend the evening rather than being told what to do and when to do it.

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Parental Engagement At rEcess, we have very little time to connect with parents so please be intentional with the time you have with parents at the beginning and end of the evening. Be sure to greet your buddy’s parent(s) and gather any pertinent information for the evening. We want our rEcess parents to be seen, known, and feel connected to our rEcess volunteers! At drop-off, ask them about their day or find out what their plans are for that evening. At pick-up, connect with the parents about their evening, tell them about their child’s night, and share crafts and photos with them. Parents will appreciate seeing their child celebrated by you!

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT South Asia 99 Balloons’ partners in South Asia provide education to children experiencing disability. Our partners have a group of rural clinics that provide medical services, therapy services, and special education to persons with disability in the surrounding areas. Currently, we have four All In Education sponsorships provided for children to go to school. This past year, we sent two teams to work with our partners in South Asia. If you are interested in learning more about our work in South Asia, visit www.99balloons.org/global-trips.

Activities: Planes, Trains & Automobiles!

M A RC H

CRAFT 1

CRAFT 2

LARGE GROUP

Paper Plate Magnet Train Materials ++ Paper plates ++ Crayons ++ Markers ++ Popsicle sticks ++ 2 small magnets (per child) ++ Hot-glue gun ++ Mini paper car or train (per child)

Paper Plate Car Materials ++ Paper plates ++ Tissue paper ++ Glue ++ White and black cardstock ++ Stapler

Tire Relay Race Materials ++ 2 pool inner tubes ++ Masking tape

Instructions 1. Pre-glue one side of the magnet to the end of a Popsicle stick. 2. Pre-glue the other side of the magnet onto a small cut out car or train. 3. Print and pre-cut small cars from printable worksheet on the HUB. 4. Kids decorate their paper plate with a road or train track and scenery along the way (trees, buildings, mountains, water). 5. Kids place the magnetic car/train on top of the paper plate. 6. Kids control their car/train using their magnetic Popsicle stick under the plate.

Instructions 1. Pre-cut the paper plates in half. 2. Pre-cut the tissue paper into 1x1 squares. 3. Pre-cut the white cardstock into 2x1 squares. 4. Pre-cut circles from the black cardstock. 5. Spread glue over the paper plate half. 6. Press tissue paper squares on top. 7. Staple on white cardstock windows and black cardstock wheels.

69 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Instructions 1. Divide kids into 2 teams & have them line up behind a tape line. 2. Each team sends one player at a time to roll the tire (a pool inner tube) to another tape line where they turn and roll it back to the next player. 3. The first team to go through all their players wins! Road Race Materials ++ Butcher paper ++ Piece of plywood ++ Matchbox cars Instructions 1. Create a road using a large piece of butcher paper with a yellow-dotted line down the middle. 2. Create car ramps using plywood and 2 pool noodles and allow children to race matchbox cars. 3. Allow kids to take turns racing cars.

MOVIE Cars 1 Cars 2 Cars 3

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

M A RC H

68 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

rEcess Report

71 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

rEcess date

M A RC H

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

We are beginning to reach out to families in our community, not just families within our church body. These families are hearing how rEcess is a fun night out for the whole family. As a result, they are also hearing that our church is ready to embrace their whole family on the weekends for our church services. We are hoping that this will allow families to attend church who otherwise wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to attend. Katherine Johnston, rEcess Director

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

73 — 72 —

APRIL

I N T RO

April

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

75 —

ASSIGNMENTS

APRIL HIGHLIGHT

APRIL

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Calvary Hill Church Glassboro, New Jersey

Laura Mattox

RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at CHC: 3 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 4

Director Tip: Start small and establish a good volunteer base prior to spreading the word to numerous families. It is better to consistently serve a few families than potentially having to turn a family away. Why rEcess? We will never forget how one of our first families was so excited to go on date to Texas Roadhouse. They told us that it had been eight years since they had the opportunity to do so. We were able to play a small part in strengthening their marriage, and that, in itself, is life changing.

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Wheelchair Etiquette At rEcess, we want to appropriately interact with our friends that use wheelchairs. Do your best to stand or sit next to someone in a wheelchair, instead of behind them. Always include the individual in conversations and activities! Do not stand behind them while talking to other people as that inevitably leaves them out of the conversation. Remember, do not lean on their chair as a person’s chair is an extension of their body. Did You Know? April is the National Autism Awareness month. 1 in 59 children born are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Celebrate our friends with Autism this month!

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT Nicaragua Over the past three years, we have supported our partners in Nicaragua in their mission to serve persons with special needs in their community. Our partners currently provide therapy to individuals experiencing disability, and they are in the process of moving into a school. We are so excited for the opportunities in this country! This June, 99 Balloons will send a team of professionals to visit and equip our partners in Nicaragua.

Activities: Olympics

APRIL

CRAFT 1

CRAFT 2

LARGE GROUP

Olympic Torch Materials ++ Paper towel tube (or toilet paper tube) ++ Red, yellow, and orange tissue paper ++ Scissors ++ Glue

Olympic Laurel Wreath Crown Materials ++ Large paper plate ++ Green construction paper ++ Pre-cut paper leaves ++ Tape ++ Scissors ++ Glue

rEcess Olympic Games Materials ++ 8 pool noodles ++ Duct tape ++ 6 bean bags ++ 6 buckets ++ 6 rings ++ Bottles or bowling pins ++ Printable Olympic medal ++ Ribbon

Instructions 1. Pre-cut the tissue paper into 6-inch squares. 2. Start with two squares for each color. 3. Make a thin ring of glue on the inside rim of one end of the tube. 4. Stack alternating colors of tissue and fan them out so the points are staggered. 5. Place your finger in the center of the stack and loosely pull the ends up around it to form a cone. 6. Place the tissue paper cone into the glued end of the tube and gently press out to affix paper to tube.

77 —

Instructions 1. Cut from the edge of the plate into the center. Remove the center of the plate and about a quarter of the rim. 2. Glue leaves in overlapping rows starting at the open ends and working your way back. 3. Extend the rows of leaves past the edges of the plate to create a full wreath. 4. Use tape to secure the ends.

Instructions 1. Designate an Olympic Host who will make the night fun and entertaining. In between games, the host will interview the athletes and play music. 2. Designate two leaders to organize and execute the rEcess Olympic games. 3. Designate a judge who will score the children and hand out the Olympic medals. 4. Play the rEcess Olympic Games. Game 1: Javelin Throw ++ Use pool noodles to create “Olympic Rings.” ++ Children will take turns trying to throw the pool noodle through the rings. ++ Have a judge count their successful throws.

Game 3: Bean Bag Toss ++ Set 6 buckets out for children at varying distances. ++ Children will try to toss the bean bags into the buckets. ++ Have a judge count their successful tosses. Game 4: Ring Toss ++ Set out bowling pins (or bottle) over bowling pins at varying distances. ++ Children will try to toss the rings around the pins. ++ Have a judge count their successful tosses. Medal Ceremony ++ Play the Olympic theme music. ++ Present the children with an Olympic Medal (printable available on www.recesshub.com).

MOVIE The Incredibles

Game 2: Obstacle Course ++ Use objects (cones, hula hoops, chairs) around the church to create an obstacle course. ++ Time the children as they complete the obstacle course.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

S EPPRTI LE M B E R A

76 —

rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

We love rEcess because it enables churches to get started without having to reinvent the wheel. We also love seeing the impact rEcess is having on our families, kids, siblings, and volunteers. Laura Mattox, rEcess Director

S EPPRTI LE M B E R A

rEcess date

79 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

81 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; M AY

May

Highlights

ASSIGNMENTS

MAY HIGHLIGHT

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

New Heights Church Fayetteville, Arkansas

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Stimming Many children with disabilities “stim” which means they repeat physical movements, sounds, or words. This is a natural way for our friends to self-regulate or self-calm. It helps our friends manage fear, anxiety, anger, excitement, and other strong emotions. Some examples of stimming are rocking, flapping, pacing, or repeating a specific phrase. At rEcess, we do not stop a child from stimming because it is their way of coping with certain situations. Did You Know? If a child is experiencing sensory overload, do your best to guide them away from the situation. Typically, it will help soothe a child if you dim the lights, move to a quiet space, or provide noise-cancelling headphones. Do not get frustrated, and do your best to understand the child’s needs.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT

Abby Ann Williams

RECESS LEADERSHIP TEAM — Years of rEcess at NHC: 8 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 20

Director Tip: Go with the flow! If the kids are happy doing a particular activity or playing a game, then go with it. It’s great to have a loose schedule for the night, but flexibility is what makes the night so great. We have to navigate the night’s agenda to cater to the kids! Don’t stress over missed activities, but rejoice over connection and community within the night! Why rEcess? rEcess bring families rest, rejuvenation, and joy. rEcess gives families the ability to go on a date, take a nap, or go to the grocery store at their own leisure. They are able to engage in simple pleasures that many of us take for granted!

rEcess Over 50 rEcess sites will wrap up another year of rEcess this month. Currently, rEcess is in three countries: Canada, Australia, and the United States. Last year, hundreds of families were served through rEcess. There were 2,345 spots for kids with disabilities, 2,066 spots for siblings, and rEcess volunteers served 19,674 hours. Thank you for being a part of changing the story of disability!

83 — M AY

Volunteer Huddle

84 —

85 —

Activities: The Greatest Show CRAFT 2

LARGE GROUP

Movie Star Microphone Materials ++ Paper towel (or toilet paper) tube ++ Styrofoam ball, ++ Tin foil ++ Construction paper ++ Jewels ++ Scissors ++ White glue ++ Hot glue gun

Hollywood Stars Materials ++ Pre-cut stars ++ Black construction paper ++ White washable paint ++ Stickers

Talent Show Materials ++ Microphones ++ Music ++ Stage

Instructions 1. Cut the tube to the appropriate size for the child. 2. Cover the tube with construction paper. Cut the paper to the correct size and attach with white glue. 3. Cover the styrofoam ball with foil. 4. Decorate the microphone’s handle. 5. Glue the ball on the handle.

Instructions 1. Pre-cut yellow stars. 2. Glue the stars to the black construction paper. 3. Paint the child’s hand with the white paint and put their handprints on the paper. 4. Decorate their Hollywood Stars paper.

Instructions 1. As kids come into rEcess, ask whether or not they would like to participate in the talent show. Make sure to put their props or costumes somewhere safe. 2. Make a list of individuals and their talents. 3. If needed, prepare any music. 4. The MC (Large group leader) will announces the different acts as they come out on stage. 5. Have fun and take pictures!

MOVIE Sing Coco Mary Poppins

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

M AY

CRAFT 1

rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

+ Recess has created a platform for volunteers to experience a glimpse of what life alongside people with disability looks like. Their perspective shifts. They gain compassion for siblings and the ability to give them individualized attention that might be missing at home sometimes. They begin to understand what a respite night can do for a marriage. They gain perspective on how people with disabilities are like you and me, and the church body is incomplete when people with disabilities are not fully included. Abby Ann Williams rEcess Leadership Teaem

Medical Professional

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

M AY

rEcess date

87 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

89 — 88 —

S EOPNTUESM B E R B

I N T RO

September Bonus

Volunteer Huddle

Highlights

91 —

ASSIGNMENTS

BONUS MONTH HIGHLIGHT

BONUS

Make volunteers aware of their role for the night. If they are placed with a 1-to-1 child, have them read over the corresponding parent packet.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.

TOP 5

Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)

TONIGHT’S INFO

Grace Church Fayetteville, Arkansas

Bonnie Leonard RECESS DIRECTOR — Years of rEcess at Grace Church: 2 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 6

Director’s Tip: It is key to develop a strong and committed leadership team. Why rEcess? rEcreo means rEcess in Spanish. We chose this name because we are a bilingual site as several of our volunteers and leadership team members are fluent or proficient in Spanish. Because of rEcreo, there is now an opportunity for Spanish-speaking families to utilize a resource they many not have otherwise had access to due to a language barrier.

EQUIPPING

Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.

Elopement Some of our children who attend rEcess are prone to run away, try and get outside, or escape from their current situation. If a child decides to sprint away from you, try to step in front of them in order to redirect their path. Even if they are not your buddy for the evening, always help redirect the child. Do everything in your power not to touch, grab, or pull the child that is running away from you. Use this time to remind volunteers about exits and the emergency plan in place if a child does elope. Did You Know? Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood. 1 in 323 American babies are diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

99 BALLOONS HIGHLIGHT 99 for 99 99 Balloons refers to the number of balloons that were released at the funeral of Eliot Mooney- each one representing a day he spent on Earth. Among the many gifts he brought his parents was a passion to help families experiencing disability. Annually, 99 Balloons hosts a fundraiser, “99 for 99,” that begins on Eliot’s birthday, July 20, and continues for the following 99 days. We hope to have gifts of $99 for each day that Eliot spent on Earth to support the work 99 Balloons is doing locally and globally. We would love for you to be a part of this fundraiser!

Activities: Under the Sea

M A RC H

CRAFT 1

LARGE GROUP

Paper Plate Jellyfish Materials ++ Paper Plates ++ Streamers or crepe paper ++ Crayons ++ Watercolor paints ++ Glue ++ Scissors

Let’s Go Fishing Materials ++ Sheet ++ Chairs and/or table ++ Clothespins ++ Prizes or fish ++ Fishing pole or stick ++ Yarn

Instructions 1. Cut a paper plate in half. 2. Decorate the plate with crayons. 3. Paint over the crayons with your watercolor paints. 4. Glue the streamers on the back of the plate.

CRAFT 2 Shell Crown Materials ++ Construction paper ++ Small sea shells and/or jewels ++ Tape ++ Glue Instructions 1. Pre-cut strips of construction paper that will fit around a child’s head. 2. Cut a zigzag in the top edge of the construction paper. 3. Decorate the crown using crayons, shells, and jewels. Do not use too many as the crown will get too heavy. 4. Wrap the construction paper around the child’s head and staple it together.

93 —

Instructions 1. Use an old fishing pole or pre-make a fishing pole using a stick. Hang a clothespin from the end of the fishing pole to make the “hook.” 2. Hang a sheet over a table. 3. Children will take turns casting their pole to the other side of the table. 4. A volunteer will put a treat (pencil, stickers, tatoos, pretend fish, anything inexpensive) on the hook and give a little tug on the line to let the child know they have a “bite.”

MOVIE Finding Nemo Finding Dory The Little Mermaid

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.

M A RC H

92 —

rEcess Report

95 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

rEcess date

M A RC H

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

We have seen rEcess give respite, a sense of trust, and an extended family to so many families. It provides an opportunity for serving the community, for lives to be changed, for conversations to be had, for fun to be had, and for relationships to be cultivated. Bonnie Leonard, rEcess Director

Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes

TOP 5

Food

Medical Needs

Parent Packet

Never Alone

All children—both sibling track and 1-to-1 track—are only allowed to eat food they have brought with them.

All medicines are only to be administered by the Onsite Medical Professional. In the case of a medical emergency, please notify the Onsite Medical Professional immediately. Tonight’s Onsite Medical Professional is .

All 1-to-1 volunteers must look over the Parent Packet for the child they are paired with before families arrive, and can ask the Onsite Medical Professional any questions.

Volunteers are never to be alone with any child, at any time, in any room. Be sure to grab a roamer if you need someone to join you and your child in a room.

Toileting

Any necessary diaper changes and toileting assistance must go through the designated Toileting Person for the night. Tonight’s Onsite Toileting Person is .

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