2020-2021
rEcess
CU RRI CU LU M
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 to further engage and equip your rEcess volunteers
+ MOVIE Suggested theme and ageappropriate movie choices
+ SCRIPTURE Read this Scripture over your volunteers, remind them of truth, and pray for the evening ahead + SENSORY ACTIVITY Materials list and instructions for a sensory experience for children
+ RECESS REPORT A place to record important info about your rEcess site
rEcess by
5 — INTRO
A N OT E FR O M 99 BA L LO O N S
rEcess Directors, Our theme for the 2020-2021 rEcess year is “Likewise,” and it comes from the Good Samaritan story found in Luke 10. While this parable does not speak directly to disability, it does speak to how we should show mercy to one another, advocate on behalf of those in need, and pursue a relationship with those considered to be marginalized. Just as the Good Samaritan promised to return, we return month after month to serve, welcome, commune with, and befriend those often overlooked by our society. At the end of this parable, Jesus tells the expert of the law to “go and do likewise.” May we, as a 99 Balloons community, seek to live out this command from Jesus this coming year. Currently, we have 45 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. Each and every church highlighted in this curriculum is on the same mission as you and me-to build inclusive communities so that every person with a disability and their family can live a full life within relationships. You have an entire 99 Balloons community cheering you on as you faithfully serve your local church.
As 99 Balloons heads into the thirteenth year of providing rEcess, we recognize the changes in our world this past year and the need for all of us to have a sense of belonging and community. We continue to stand in awe of the life change happening because you consistently invite families experiencing disability into your lives, buildings, and communities. Thank you for the countless ways you love and serve your rEcess parents, siblings, children, and volunteers! May we return, just as the Good Samaritan did. May we spend our time here on Earth as Christ did, with those the world did not welcome. May we show divine mercy and compassion to one another. May we fervently pray that people from every tongue, tribe, nation, and ability will be represented, welcomed, and ushered into the community of the local church. Go and do likewise. //
Rebecca Wall
Programs Director, 99 Balloons
6 —
M O N T H LY AC T I V I T Y I D E A S
INTRO
INDOOR SUGGESTIONS + Sensory Bins
OUTDOOR SUGGESTIONS • Sidewalk chalk
• Play-Doh
• Bubbles
• Beads
• Water table
• Sand
• Sports balls
• Squishy toys
• Playground
• Marbles
+ Manicure Station + Face painting + Building blocks + Plastic bowling set + Hula Hoops + Legos + Parachutes + Popular Board Games • Twister • Sorry • Connect Four • Heads Up • Candyland • Guess Who
+ Popular Card Games • Uno • Old Maid • Matching Games • War • Slap Jack • Go Fish • Spoons
M O N T H LY M AT E R I A L S L I S T Craft 1 Pre-cut out construction paper houses, Markers, Paint, Scissors, Glue sticks, Construction paper Craft 2 Brown paper bag pre-cut sashes, Scissors, Glue stick, Badge templates or pre-cut badge printouts, Markers, Crayons Sensory Activity Balloons, Variety of materials (sand, rice, beads, water, shaving cream, marbles) Large Group Printed pictures of Kevin the Bird, Tape, Balloons, 2 large boxes Movie Up
+ OCTOBER Craft 1 White cardstock, Washable paint, Googly eyes, Black construction paper, Scissors, Glue or glue stick Craft 2 Pencils, Scissors, Pipe cleaners, Glue Pen, Pom poms, Colored feathers, Glue Dots, Googly eyes Sensory Activity Ziploc sandwich bags, Clear packing tape, Slime, Googly eyes Large Group Music Movie Monster’s Inc.
+ NOVEMBER Craft 1 Paper plates, Gold paint, Paintbrush, Jewels, Glitter, Glue, Black construction paper Craft 2 Construction paper (light blue, green, white, black, and gray), Washable craft paint (white, orange, blue, dark blue, and yellow), Paintbrush, Glue, Scissors, Black pen Sensory Activity Printed Mickey and Minnie Outlines on white cardstock, Assorted buttons (red, black, pink, white), Glue, Crayons Large Group Disney Duos printouts, Large Popsicle sticks, Tape, Disney trivia PowerPoint Movie 101 Dalmatians, Finding Nemo, Toy Story
+ DECEMBER Craft 1 Plastic clear fillable ornaments, Faux snow, Pipe cleaners, Craft pom-poms, Googly eyes, Black and orange foam craft sheets, Hot-glue gun Craft 2 Popsicle Sticks, Scissors, Glue, Markers, Glitter, Beads, Pipe cleaners, Pom-poms, Jewels Sensory Activity Empty water bottles, Rice, Christmas pom-poms, Christmas foam stickers, Bells, Red and green glitter Large Group Small gifts for children (Stickers, cars, bows, coloring book, etc.), Santa Claus outfit, Snowman made out of paper or poster board, Several pre-cut “carrot” noses, Tape, Blindfold Movie The Grinch, Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Star
INTRO
+ SEPTEMBER
7 —
8 — INTRO
+ JANUARY Craft 1 Purchase “Color Scratch Snowman” and “Color Scratch Snowflake” from Oriental Trading Company, Popsicle sticks Craft 2 White and blue copy paper, Scissors, Large Snowflake stencil pages with directions Sensory Activity Bucket, Snowballs or white socks, Mittens, Hat, Scarf Large group Snowballs (white paper or newspaper snowballs), music Movie Frozen, Frozen 2
+ FEBRUARY Craft 1 Pre-cut mask, Markers, Paint, Feathers, Sequins, Dowels or ribbon Craft 2 Boxes of varying sizes (shoeboxes are ideal), Construction paper, Glue, Stapler, Scissors, Markers, Ribbon, Small dolls or action figures (GI Joe, Barbie, etc), Twine Sensory Activity Posterboard, Feathers, Beads, Sequins, Glue, Ribbon, Pipe cleaners, Tissue paper, Scissors Large Group Bead necklaces, Music, Completed parade floats and masks Movie Lady and the Tramp, Gnomeo and Juliet
+ MARCH Craft 1 White cardstock, Sea salt, Glue, Watercolor paint, Paintbrushes Craft 2 String, Assorted green and white beads, Scissors Sensory Acivity Tub, Sand or Rice, Gold coins, Small shovels or spoons Large Group Laminated shamrocks, Small prizes, Music Movie Shrek
+ APRIL Craft 1 Sentence strips (Amazon), White and black cardstock (ovals and circles), Pom-poms, Pipe-cleaners, Glue stick, Stapler or tape Craft 2 Items from nature (leaves, sticks, flowers, etc.), Popsicle sticks, Magnifying glass, Glue, Assorted craft materials to allow for creativity Sensory Activity Tub, Plastic bugs, Dried beans or pasta, Plastic shovel, Muffin tin, Colored construction paper Large Group Plastic bugs or pictures of bugs (or use both), 2 fly swatters or bug nets, 2 plastic buckets, Bug tattoos, Sponges, Water Movie The Incredibles
9 —
Craft 1 Animal coloring sheets, Markers, Scissors, Clothespins, Liquid glue, Pipe-cleaners, Pom-poms or cotton balls Craft 2 Star-shaped sunglasses, Jewels , Glue Sensory Activity Parachute Large Group Microphones, Music, Stage Movie Sing, High School Musical, Mary Poppins
+ BONUS MONTH Craft 1 Foam Visors, Stickers (Baseballs, letters), Markers Craft 2 Paper plate, Hole punch, Red ribbon or yarn, Crayons Sensory Activity Tub, Pre-cut strips of yarn or fabric, Ping pong balls, Wiffle balls, Tongs Large Group T-ball stand, Plastic bat, Wiffle ball, Bases, Cones, Chairs, Bucket, Water Movie Everyone’s Hero
INTRO
+ MAY
10 —
11 — AUGUST
AUGUST
2020
12 —
August Checklist
AUGUST
TO DO Send rEcess dates to 99 Balloons. Add your rEcess events to the rEcess HUB. Reserve location for monthly rEcess events.
SUGGESTIONS Send a “Save the Date” email or postcard to families and volunteers with rEcess dates for 2020-2021. Make a plan for feeding your volunteers at each rEcess event.
Refill your rEcess First-aid kit. Print off Medication Consent & Incident Report forms. Secure a Medical Professional for each rEcess event. Join “99 Balloons rEcess Directors” Facebook group.
Schedule a photographer to snap quality pictures of your rEcess this year. Laminate monthly craft instructions found on www.recesshub.com. Are you on the Disability Ministry Locator website? If not, input your church’s information here: www.abilityministry.com/disability-ministry-locator/
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.
Check that all background checks are current. We recommend running background checks every 3 years.
rEcess Planning
13 — AUGUST
14 —
rEcess Planning
AUGUST
VIST 99BALLOONS.ORG/SHOP TO SEE NEW SHIRTS FOR A NEW YEAR!
16 —
17 — SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 2020
99 Balloons Years of rEcess: 13 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 25 “My advice is to remember that rEcess is about having fun and not only encouraging only our friends with disabilities, but rEcess also gives quality time for siblings to feel known, acknowledged, and cared about by the volunteers. rEcess allows parents to have a relaxing night away so they can recharge and continue to be the amazing parents they are!� / Sarah Heigel, 99 Balloons Intern
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.
PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT
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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
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 their plans for the 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!
DID YOU KNOW? 99 Balloons has over 45 rEcess sites in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Churches across the world are gathering tonight to serve families experiencing disability. Thank you for being a part of the 99 Balloons community. You are helping change the story of disability!
SCRIPTURE “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139: 13-14
19 — SEPTEMBER
Volunteer Huddle
20 — SEPTEMBER
UP, UP, AND AWAY! CRAFT 1 Thumbprint Balloon House Materials + Pre-cut construction paper houses + Markers + Paint + Scissors + Glue sticks + Construction paper Instructions 1. Glue the house onto the construction paper. 2. Draw lines for balloons with markers. 3. Thumbprint different colored balloons at the top of each line. 4. Decorate your picture.
CRAFT 2 Boy Scout and Girl Scout Sashes Materials + Brown paper bag pre-cut sashes + Scissors + Glue stick + Badge templates or pre-cut badge printouts + Markers Instructions 1. Select a pre-cut sash. 2. Cut out or make your own badges. 3. Glue badges onto sash. 4. Color and decorate. 5. Wear it like a real Boy Scout and Girl Scout.
“rEcess has given our community a glimpse of heaven and a realization that people who are considered “different” are really not that much different than the rest of us.” -RYLEE ATKINS, 99 BALLOONS INTERN
LARGE GROUP
WHAT’S IN THE BALLOON? MATERIALS: + Balloons + Variety of materials (sand, beads, rice, water, shaving cream, marbles) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Fill the balloons with different materials. 2. Have the children feel them and guess what material is in each balloon. 3. Leave extra materials and balloons out so they can make their own.
Pin the Football on the Goal Post Materials + Printed pictures of Kevin the Bird + Tape + Balloons + Two big boxes + Cones Instructions Where’s Kevin? 1. Hide several pictures of “Kevin the Bird” from the movie, Up, around your space. 2. Tell the children how many pictures are hidden throughout the space. 3. Give them 10 minutes to go on the hunt and find all of the pictures. 4. Take a tour or have a slideshow to show the kids where all of the pictures were hiding. Balloon Race 1. Have a large stash of blown-up balloons ready to go. 2. Arrange cones in an obstacle course and place a large box at the end. 3. Divide the children into two teams. 4. The children will race through the cones with a blown -up balloon. Feel free to mix up the commands during the race. + Examples: + Balloon over your head. + Balloon behind your back. + Balloon between your knees. + Hop on one foot. + High knees. + The team to get 10 balloons into each box wins!
Movie Up
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
SEPTEMBER
SENSORY ACTIVITY
21 —
“
rEcess has given our community a glimpse of heaven and a realization that people who are considered “different” are really not that much different than the rest of us.
”
RYLEE ATKINS, 99 BALLOONS INTERN
rEcess Report
23 —
rEcess date
SEPTEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
24 —
25 — OCTOBER
OCTOBER 2020
SOUTH CITY CHURCH LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
YEARS OF RECESS: 7 RECESS FAMILIES SERVED MONTHLY: 9
Director Tip: “Don’t sweat the small stuff. If the kids are safe and happy and the parents/ caregivers were comfortable leaving their kiddos and got some time away to relax and recharge, mission accomplished!” --Dana Luper, rEcess Co-Director
ASSIGNMENTS 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.)
Highlights
27 —
OCTOBER HIGHLIGHT
OCTOBER
Volunteer Huddle
STIMMING Many children with disabilities “stim” which means they repeat physical movements, sounds, or words. This is a natural way for our friends to “selfregulate” 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.
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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
DID YOU KNOW? Autism stems from the Greek word autos meaning “self.” Autism literally means “alone.” Let’s seek to know, to learn from, and to connect with our friends with autism. At rEcess, we are reminding our friends with autism that they are not alone, and we are shouting their worth!
SCRIPTURE “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17
28 — OCTOBER
MONSTER MANIA! CRAFT 1 MONSTER MASH Materials + White card stock or thick paper + Kid-friendly paint + Googly eyes + Colored construction paper + Scissors + Glue or glue stick Instructions 1. Fold the piece of white cardstock or heavy paper in half. 2. Unfold the piece of paper and pour about 1/2 teaspoon of paint in the crease. 3. Fold the paper again and squish the paint around. Be careful that the paint doesn’t leak out of the sides of the paper. 4. Unfold the paper and let the paint dry. 5. After the paint dries, glue on the googly eyes. 6. Cut the mouth out of construction paper and glue it on to the monster.
CRAFT 2 MONSTER PENCIL TOPPERS Materials + Pencils + Scissors + Pipe cleaners + Feathers + Glue pen or gun + Pom-poms + Googly eyes + Glue dots
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
LARGE GROUP
Instructions 1. Cut two small pieces from the end of the pipe cleaner and wind them around your pencil to create short curled pieces of pipe cleaner. 2. Cut two small lengths of pipe cleaner. 3. Wrap each one around a pencil. Remove the pencil to create the shape. 4. Stick these to your pom-pom using the glue pen or glue gun. Leave to dry. 5. In the meantime, wrap the remainder of the pipe cleaner around the end of the pencil to secure the 3 feathers in place. 6. Stick the two curly ‘antennae’ to the pom-pom. 7. Wrap the remaining pipe cleaner around the end of the pencil to secure the feathers in place. 8. Using a glue pen, glue dot, or glue gun, stick the pom-pom head onto the pipe cleaner stalk. 9. Use a glue dot to stick a googly eye to your pom pom.
Monster Mash Dance Off Materials Monster Mash song Instructions 1. Assign two judges for the Monster Mash Dance Off. 2. Play the song “Monster Mash” and allow the children to dance! 3. Whenever the music stops, the children will freeze in place. 4. The judges will tap the children who do not stop dancing, and they will have to exit the game. 5. The last child standing wins the Monster Mash Award (sticker, medal, crazy wig, silly glasses, anything fun and silly). 6. Play the game as many times as you want.
MOVIE SENSORY ACTIVITY Googly Eye Monster Slime MATERIALS: + Ziploc sandwich bags + Clear packing tape + Slime + Googly eyes INSTRUCTIONS: + Prefill Ziploc bags with slime. + Let kids add googly eyes to bags. + Secure with clear packing tape.
Monster’s Inc.
OCTOBER
CRAFT 2
29 —
“ We have seen rEcess change families’ lives. We have seen families make connections with other families experiencing similar circumstances. We have seen families that did not have a church home begin attending and later accept Christ.
” //Ashley Sparks, rEcess Co-Director
rEcess Report
31 —
rEcess date
OCTOBER SEPTEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
32 —
NOVEMBER
33 — NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 2020
DILLON COMMUNITY CHURCH SUMMIT COUNTY, COLORADO Years of rEcess AT WCC: 2 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 8
Director Tip: “Be flexible and figure out what works best for your site. Although I am more of a strict schedule follower, being flexible and less rigid really changed the dynamic for me.” // Heidi Clark, rEcess Director
Volunteer Huddle
Highlights
35 —
ASSIGNMENTS
NOVEMBER 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.
NOVEMBER
SIBLINGS
Recap the TOP 5 with all existing volunteers. (See inside back cover for a Top 5 recap sheet.)
We love having our siblings participate in rEcess! The term “Glass Child’’ is used to describe siblings of children experiencing disability. It refers to the fact that siblings are often “seen through” by their parents, relatives, or neighbors due to the high needs of their siblings experiencing disability. Seek to listen to our sibs, give them the undivided attention they desire, and encourage them to let loose and have fun!
TONIGHT’S INFO
DID YOU KNOW?
NEW VOLUNTEERS Make sure new volunteers know how they will get trained and background checked.
TOP 5
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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
99 Balloons has partners in Haiti, Uganda, Nicaragua, and Southeast Asia. 99 Balloons assists these partners in providing education for children experiencing disability. 9 out of 10 children experiencing disability in a developing country do not attend school. It takes $33 a month to sponsor a child to receive education and therapy services. If you are interested in helping to send a child to school, visit www.99balloons.org.
SCRIPTURE “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:9-13
36 —
rEcess: THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH
NOVEMBER
CRAFT 1
CRAFT 2
Cinderella’s Coach Materials + Paper plates + Gold paint + Paintbrush + Jewels + Glitter + Glue + Black construction paper
Finding Nemo Handprint Fish Materials + Construction paper (light blue, green, white, black, and gray) + Washable craft paint (white, orange, blue, dark blue, and yellow) + Paintbrush + Glue + Scissors + Black pen
Instructions 1. Pre-paint the paper plates with sparkly gold paint. 2. Cut the wheels and windows out of black construction paper. 3. Decorate Cinderella’s coach with jewels and glitter!
Instructions 1. Pre-cut the eyes. Draw a large circle (quarter size) on the white paper and a smaller circle (penny size) on the black paper and then cut them out. 2. Nemo: Use the orange and white paint to paint 3 orange stripes and 2 white stripes on the child’s hand. Then, make a handprint on the blue paper. 3. Dory: Use the blue paint to cover the child’s hand except for the very tip of their fingertips. Use the dark blue paint to paint the top part of their hand remembering to leave the very tip of their fingers clean. Use the yellow paint and cover the child’s fingertips. Then, make a handprint on the blue paper. 4. Glue the white part of the eye first. Then, glue the black circle on top. 5. Draw seaweed on the green paper and rocks on the gray paper. Cut them out and glue the decorations onto the blue paper. 6. Use the black pen to draw a mouth.
37 —
LARGE GROUP
Mickey and Minnie Buttons Galore MATERIALS: + Printed Mickey and Minnie Outlines on white cardstock + Assorted buttons (red, black, pink, white) + Glue + Crayons
Disney Dous Materials + Disney Duos printouts + Large Popsicle sticks + Tape + Disney trivia PowerPoint
Instructions 1.
The child will choose buttons to glue onto the Minnie and Mickey outlines.
2.
If the child would rather color and glue just a few buttons, that is great!
Instructions 1. Tape the Disney Duo printouts onto the Popsicle sticks. 2. Give each child and volunteer one Disney character and to keep their character private. 3. When you say “go,” everyone will try and find their other half. Example: Cinderella and Prince Charming, Nemo and Dory, Lady and Tramp 4. Play several rounds of this game and mix up the characters!
DISNEY TRIVIA + Choose a Disney Trivia host. + Divide everyone into two groups (Volunteers vs children or Boys vs Girls) + Use the Disney Trivia powerpoint to lead the game and have as many people participate as possible!
MOVIE + 101 Dalmatians + Finding Nemo + Toy Story
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
NOVEMBER
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“ I love seeing relationships form between the rEcess parents. Sometimes we have to almost kick them out afterwards because they’re so excited to connect with another family!
”
--Heidi Clark, rEcess Director
rEcess Report
39 —
rEcess date
NOVEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
40 —
41 — DECEMBER
DECEMBER 2020
CONCORD COMMUNITY CHURCH BRENTWOOD, TENNESSEE Years of rEcess: 5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 9
Director’s Tip “It sounds so cliché, but pray. I swear in the 4 years we have done rEcess, God meets our needs every month. We seem to always end up with the perfect number of volunteers for the families we have participating that month. I don’t find that to be a coincidence.” -- Cheryl Corle, rEcess Director
Volunteer Huddle
Highlights
43 —
ASSIGNMENTS
DECEMBER 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.
DECEMBER
TONE OF VOICE
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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
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? People who are visually impaired are just as likely as anyone else to experience vivid dreams while sleeping. Their dreams are dominated by sounds, smells, and tastes.
SCRIPTURE “Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8
44 — DECEMBER
MERRY CHRISTMAS, RECESS!! CRAFT 1 Christmas Ornaments Materials + Plastic clear fillable ornaments + Faux snow + Pipe cleaners + Craft pom-poms + Googly eyes + Black and orange foam craft sheets + Hot glue gun Instructions 1. Carefully pour faux snow inside the ornament and secure it closed. 2. Twist together two pipe cleaners of different colors. Glue them to the top half of the ornament. 3. Glue poms on both sides as “earmuffs”. 4. Glue on eyes. 5. Make the nose and mouth. Attach them to the ornament.
CRAFT 2 Popsicle Stick Christmas Tree Materials + Popsicle Sticks + Scissors + Glue + Markers + Glitter + Beads + Pipe cleaners + Pom-poms + Jewels Instructions 1. Build your Christmas tree using Popsicle sticks. 2. Decorate your tree using an assortment of materials.
45 —
Christmas bottles Materials + Empty water bottles + Rice + Christmas pom-poms + Christmas foam stickers + Bells + Red and/or green glitters Instructions 1. Put rice in an empty, dry water bottle. 2. Add the other supplies as desired. 3. Put hot-glue on the lid and place it back on the bottle.
rEcess Carols 3. Make slides with the words from several Christmas carols to display. 4. Have someone lead Christmas carols for the children to sing with you. You can have someone play a guitar or play the music from a computer. 5. You can invite different groups of children up to the stage to help lead the songs. (Boys, girls, siblings, December birthdays, etc.) Santa Comes to rEcess 1. Find a volunteer to dress up like Santa Claus. 2. They can take a picture with Santa and visit with the children. 3. Santa can bring small gifts for the children. (Stickers, cars, bows, coloring book, etc.) Pin the Nose on the Snowman 1. Tape a large snowman to the wall. 2. Blindfold each child when it is their turn to play. 3. The child will try and pin the carrot nose onto the snowman. 4. See who gets their nose in the proper place!
LARGE GROUP Christmas Game Show Materials + Small gifts for children (Stickers, cars, bows, coloring book, etc.) + Santa Claus outfit + Snowman made out of paper or poster board + Several pre-cut “carrot” noses + Tape + Blindfold
Movie The Grinch Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer The Star
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
DECEMBER
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“ rEcess has shaped our church community. It took a while, but our whole church has gotten on board with supporting this ministry. Those who cannot come to rEcess nights support us financially or help with meals for the volunteers. Now, when our church plans an outreach event like VBS or Easter egg hunts, people ask “What do we need to do to make this inclusive for all kids?
” Cheryl Corle, rEcess Director
rEcess Report
47 —
rEcess date
DECEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
48 —
49 — JANUARY
JANUARY 2021
BATTLECREEK CHURCH Tulsa, Oklahoma Years of rEcess: 1 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 20
Director Tip: “I suggest you create teams to do much of the prep work for each rEcess. Also, create a rEcess playbook so anyone can step in and lead this event if needed.” -Amy Lovelle, rEcess Leadership Team
Volunteer Huddle
Highlights
51 —
ASSIGNMENTS
JANUARY 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.
JANUARY
COMMUNITY
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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
People with disabilities are the most unchurched population in our world. Many families experience isolation and desire to be known and seen by their community. rEcess brings community and support to families who desperately need it. You are providing rEcess parents with time away from their children in order to be refreshed and recharged as well as giving them a sense of community and relationships. Do not forget how profound and impactful rEcess is to parents and make rEcess a safe and fun night
DID YOU KNOW? Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood. Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone or posture. Cerebral palsy’s effect on an individual varies greatly ranging from intellectual disabilities, one’s ability to move, and difficulty swallowing, seeing, or hearing. Worldwide, a baby is born with cerebral palsy every hour.
SCRIPTURE “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy.” Psalm 5:11
52 —
DO YOU WANT TO BUILD A SNOWMAN?
JANUARY
CRAFT 1
CRAFT 2
Color Scratch Snowman & Snowflake Materials + Purchase “Color Scratch Snowman” and “Color Scratch Snowflake” from Oriental Trading Company (Link on www.recesshub.com) + Popsicle sticks
Snowflakes Materials + White and blue copy paper + Scissors + Large Snowflake stencil pages with directions
Instructions 1. Attach the string to the scratch-off ahead of time. 2. Set out popsicle sticks and scratching sticks. 3. Show the kids how to scratch off the black coating to create colorful designs.
Instructions 1. Pre-cut the paper to the square shape dimensions on the instruction sheet. 2. Fold the paper into a pie slice shape (see directions). 3. Draw your own design or use one of the stencil pages to trace the design. 4. Cut along the lines to create the voids and open up your snowflake.
Let’s play in the snow Materials + Bucket + Snowballs or white socks + Mittens + Scarf + Hat Instructions 1. Fill the bucket with different winter clothing and accessories. The children can put them on and experience the different fabrics and textures. 2. Grab socks and show the children how to build their own snowballs. 3. The children can toss them in the bucket or pretend to have a snowball fight.
LARGE GROUP Snowball Fight Materials + Snowballs (newspaper, white construction paper, Amazon**) + Cotton balls + Plastic spoons or serving spoons (depending on age and development) + 2 Buckets Instructions 1. Set out assorted sized large cardboard boxes/chairs for places to hide behind. 2. Divide the groups into teams. 3. Set a timer for each round. 4. Place the snowballs in a pile in the center of the room at the beginning of each round. 5. Have fun! Freeze Dance Instructions 1. Place a specific number of cotton balls & spoons on one side of the room. Help distribute spoons based on age and need. 2. Place the buckets across the space from the cotton balls and spoons. 3. Divide the kids into teams for the relay race. 4. Ask the kids to line up and explain how the relay will work. 5. The first team to get all of the cotton balls in their bucket wins.
MOVIE Frozen
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
JANUARY SEPTEMBER
SENSORY ACTIVITY
53 —
“
Because of rEcess, families have been overwhelmed by the need for rest being met. They feel seen and valued. Our volunteers serve with joy and seem to truly see the impact they are making just by showing up on a Friday night.
“
Amy Lovelle, rEcess Leadership
rEcess Report
55 —
rEcess date
JANUARY SEPTEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
56 —
57 — FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY 2021
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Baton Rouge, Louisiana Years of rEcess: 10 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 9
Director Tip: “Delegate! For our first several years, I tried to do everything, and it got overwhelming. My husband even talked of handing over the reins to someone else. Not willing to do that, I asked our volunteers to step up into a leadership role and take over some of the responsibilities. It has made rEcess more fun and manageable for me as well as a priority for those volunteers!� Jess Concienne, rEcess Director
Volunteer Huddle
Highlights
59 —
ASSIGNMENTS
FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHT
FEBRUARY
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 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 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 abilities. 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? One in four people who report sexual assault are people living with a disability. People with intellectual disabilities are seven times more likely to experience sexual assault than those without disabilities. It is so important to maintain safe and appropriate boundaries when you interact with our friends with disabilities. At rEcess, our “Never Alone” policy helps to prevent any possible danger for our friends.
SCRIPTURE “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:9-10
60 — FEBRUARY
MARDI GRAS CRAFT 1 Mardi Gra Mask Materials + Mask cut out (attached) + Markers + Paint + Feathers + Sequins + Dowels or ribbon Instructions 1. Make a unique and fancy mask for Mardi Gras! 2. Attach it to a dowel so that it can be hand-held or attach the ribbon to either side so it can tie on.
CRAFT 2 Mardi Gras Float Materials + Boxes of varying sizes (shoeboxes are ideal) + Construction paper + Glue + Stapler + Scissors + Markers + Ribbon + Small dolls or action figures (GI Joe, Barbie, etc.) + Twine Instructions 1. Take the lid off the shoebox and flip the box upside-down. 2. Staple the lid to the side of the box. 3. Decorate the float in the theme of your choice. 4. Affix an action figure to the top of the float (that’s the Grand Marshall). 5. Attach the twine to the front of the float by poking a hole through the front and tying a large knot in the twine. This is how you’ll pull the float in the parade.
61 —
Mardi Gras Banner Materials + Posterboard + Feathers + Beads + Sequins + Glue + Ribbon + Pipe cleaners + Tissue paper + Scissors Instructions 6. Have the children pick materials to make posters for the parade. 7. They can glue different materials and textures to create art.
LARGE GROUP A rEcess Parade. Instructions 1. Pass out bead necklaces, play some music, and set up for the parade. 2. Have the volunteers line up on either side of the hallway or space. 3. The children will wear their masks and pull their floats down the hall! 4. Cheer and celebrate the parade participants.
MOVIE Princess and the Frog
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
FEBRUARY
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“
It is amazing to see our families come in the door tired and sometimes overwhelmed, and then return relaxed at the end of rEcess. Many of our families have told us what a difference rEcess has made in the lives of their marriage and their kids.
“ . Jess Concienne, rEcess Director
rEcess Report
63 —
rEcess date
FEBRUARY
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
64 —
65 — MARCH
MARCH 2021
THE VENUES CHURCH SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI Director’s Tip: Years of rEcess: 5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 15
“Go with the flow! Sometimes the plan you have doesn’t work, and that’s okay! You have to look at the big picture so if a craft doesn’t work, it’s no big deal. rEcess isn’t about the craft, it’s about the kids having fun and their parents being refreshed.” Sophia McDonald, rEcess Director
67 —
MARCH HIGHLIGHT ELOPEMENT
ASSIGNMENTS 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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
Some of our children who attend rEcess are prone to run away, try to 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? Down syndrome remains the most common chromosomal condition diagnosed in the US. Each year, about 6,000 babies born in the United States have Down syndrome. March 21st (3-21) is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day. We celebrate our friends who have a third copy of their 21st chromosome by wearing crazy socks!
SCRIPTURE “Dear children, let us not love in word or talk but in actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
MARCH
Volunteer Huddle
68 — MARCH
rEcess Goes Green! CRAFT 1
CRAFT 2
Sea Salt Rainbows Materials + Sea salt + White cardstock + Glue + Watercolor paint + Paintbrushes
St. Patrick’s Day Necklaces Materials + String + Assorted green and white beads + Scissors
Instructions 1. Pre-draw the lines for the rainbow on the cardstock paper. 2. Make 7 rainbow arches with glue. 3. Pour sea salt on the glue. 4. Shake any loose salt off of the paper. 5. Repeat 3 and 4 times as needed. 6. Paint over the salt in rainbow colors. 7. Let the masterpiece dry.
Instructions 1. Make a fun green necklace to wear on St. Patrick’s Day! 2. Measure the string to make a necklace. 3. Tie a knot on the end of the string. 4. Place beads on the string to complete your necklace. 5. Tie a knot at the other end of the necklace.
69 —
Treasure Hunt Materials + Tub + Sand or rice + Gold coins + Small shovels Instructions 1. Hide gold coins in the tub full of rice or sand. 2. Use the shovel to hunt for treasure. 3. Gather as many gold coins as possible. 4. Have a treasure chest with small toys. The children can trade their coins in for a toy!
LARGE GROUP Shamrock Walk! Instructions 1. Set out laminated numbered shamrocks in a circle. 2. Have a bowl full of the numbers to draw a winner for each round. 3. Each child will start on a number. 4. Start the music and have the children walk or dance around the circle until the music stops. 5. When the music stops, draw a number to choose the winner! 6. The winner gets a small prize. 7. Play again!
MOVIE Shrek
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
MARCH
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“
Many of our volunteers have formed a relationship with their rEcess buddy. They are so excited to see each other when the kids arrive! Some of our volunteers do not attend our church so they are either in town for college or have been involved with another 99 Balloons location. It is so cool to see such a wide variety of people come together with one goal, to serve our rEcess families.
“
Sophia McDonald, rEcess Director
rEcess Report
71 —
rEcess date
MARCH
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
72 —
INTRO
73 — APRIL
APRIL 2021
FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH ROGERS, ARKANSAS Years of rEcess at CHC: 10 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 8
Director Tip: “Think creatively to make rEcess work for you. If the structure needs to change to fit your site, make those changes.” -Karen Campbell, rEcess Co-Director
Highlights
ASSIGNMENTS
APRIL 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 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 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 nonverbal, it is important to still converse and interact with them. Just because an individual may be nonverbal, 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? April is the National Autism Awareness month. Children with autism are twice as likely never to step foot in a church compared to a typical child. Celebrate the fact that children with autism are welcomed into your church tonight!
SCRIPTURE “When you give a banquet, invite those who are poor. Also, invite those who can’t see or walk. Then you will be blessed. Your guests can’t pay you back. But you will be paid back when those who are right with God rise from the dead.” Luke 14:13-14
75 — APRIL
Volunteer Huddle
— APRIL
rEcess BUG BASH! CRAFT 1 Bug Headband Materials + Sentence strips (Amazon) + White and black cardstock + Large pom-poms + Pipe cleaners + Glue stick + Stapler or tape Instructions 1. Have the children glue two large white ovals to the middle of the sentence strip 2. Glue the black circles on the white ovals to make the eyes and leave this to dry while you make the bug antennae. 3. Simply glue one pom-pom to the end of each pipe cleaner. 4. Place the sentence strip around the child’s head to find a comfortable fit. 5. Staple the cardboard together at the back. Attach the antennae to the rear of the cardboard using staples. 6. Place the tissue paper cone into the glued end of the tube and gently press out to affix paper to tube.
CRAFT 2 Bug Mosaics Materials + Items from nature or purchased to replicate natural materials (leaves, sticks, flowers, etc.) + Magnifying glass + Glue + Assorted craft materials to allow for creativity Instructions 1. Use the natural materials or craft supplies to create insects. 2. Use the magnifying glass to look at creations.
—
Buggy Dig Materials + Tub + Plastic bugs + Dried beans or pasta + Plastic shovel + Muffin tin Instructions 1. The children will dig in the bucket for different bugs. 2. They will place one bug in each muffin tin to observe.
LARGE GROUP We’re Going on a Bug Hunt Materials + Plastic bugs or pictures of bugs (or use both) + 2 fly swatters or bug nets + 2 plastic buckets or bags + Bug tattoos + Sponges + Water Instructions 1. Hide plastic bugs or pictures of bugs around the room. 2. Divide children into 2 teams. Choose 1 child from each team and give each team a flyswatter or bug net and a bucket or bag. 3. Set a timer or play music and tell the 2 bug hunters to see how many bugs they can find in the allotted time. (This can also be played in a smaller group by letting everyone have a turn.) 4. Give all the kids a bug tattoo as a prize.
MOVIE A Bug’s Life Ants For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
SEPTEMBER APRIL
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“
We love rEcess because it gives us the opportunity to laugh with, love on, and learn from our friends of all abilities.
� Mitzi Yates and Karen Campbell, rEcess Co-Directors
rEcess Report
79 —
rEcess date
APRIL SEPTEMBER
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
81 — MAY
MAY 2021
CHERRY CREEK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH DENVER, COLORADO Years of rEcess: 5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 15
Director Tip: “When it looks like it isn’t going to work out, just take a breath. God won’t give you more than you can handle.” -Christine Read, rEcess Director
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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
AGE-APPROPRIATE INTERACTION Our friends experiencing 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. Keep physical touch to a minimum and model appropriate physical touch between friends. High fives, side hugs, secret handshakes, and fist bumps are encouraged!
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.
SCRIPTURE “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10
83 — MAY
Volunteer Huddle
THE GREATEST SHOW MAY
CRAFT 1
CRAFT 2
Animal Puppets Materials + Animal coloring sheets + Markers + Scissors + Clothespins + Glue (not glue sticks) + Pom-poms or cotton balls
Movie Star Glasses Materials + Star-shaped sunglasses + Jewels + Glue
Instructions 1. Have kids coloring several different animals. 2. Cut out animals. 3. Glue the animal cut out onto one side of the clothespins. 4. Glue on pom-poms or cotton balls to give extra character.
Instructions 1. Decorate the star-shaped glasses with jewels. 2. Pose like a movie star for a photo.
LARGE GROUP
Paracute Games
TALENT SHOW
Materials + Parachute Instructions 1. Have one kid sit in the middle of the parachute while the other kids move the parachute up and down. 2. Have the kids grab all around the parachute. Place foam balls in the middle and have the kids try and get all the balls off. 3. Have volunteers move the parachute up and down while kids go under and back out of the parachute as it moves.
Materials + Microphones + Music + Stage 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 Mary Poppins High School Musical
For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
MAY
SENSORY ACTIVITY
“
rEcess has shaped our community because it has brought in people from all walks of life and given them that feeling of family and togetherness.
“ Christine Read, rEcess Director
rEcess Report
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
MAY
rEcess date
87 —
88 —
89 — BONUS SEPTEMBER
BONUS
September
A&M CHURCH OF CHRIST College Station, Texas
Years of rEcess at Grace Church: 1.5 rEcess Families Served Monthly: 5
Director’s Tip: “rEcess becomes an integral and enriching part of your life. It is important to focus on the event; you have to create an environment where people want to return and belong. There are so many people, both participants and volunteers, that need and want these new relationships. This community becomes your rEcess family.” - Jamie Wilson, rEcess Co-Director
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 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 Equip your volunteers by continuing to sharpen their awareness and skills in working with children with differing abilities.
SENSORY NEEDS Some of our rEcess friends may struggle with some of our high-sensory activities. 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-canceling headphones. Do not get frustrated. All behavior is considered a form of communication so do your best to understand the child’s unique needs.
DID YOU KNOW? 99 Balloons refers to the amount of balloons released at the funeral of Eliot Mooney- each one representing a day he spent on Earth. The capital “E” in rEcess stands for Eliot, the son of Matt and Ginny Mooney, the founders of 99 Balloons. 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 would love for you to participate in this fundraiser to further the work of 99 Balloons!
SCRIPTURE “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Romans 12:10
92 —
TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME! CRAFT 1 Baseball Visor Materials + Foam Visors + Stickers (Baseballs, letters) + Markers Instructions 1. Use the stickers and markers to decorate the baseball visor.
CRAFT 2 Shell Crown Materials + Paper plate + Hole punch + Red ribbon or yarn + Crayons Instructions 1. Gently bend the paper plate in half and punch holes to make the laces of a baseball. 2. Use ribbon or string to lace your baseball. 3. Decorate your baseball.
LARGE GROUP SENSORY ACTIVITY Sensory Search Materials + Tub + Pre-cut strips of yarn or fabric + Ping pong balls + Wiffle balls + Tongs Instructions 1. Fill the tub with ping pong and wiffle balls. 2. Lay strips of yarn or fabric on top. 3. Allow the kids to dig for the balls using their hands or tongs. 4. Extra idea: You could have a tub with water, balls, and scoops for even more fun
Wiffle T-ball Materials + T-ball stand + Plastic bat + Wiffle ball + Bases Instructions + Set up the bases and T-ball stand in an open space. If possible, head outside for a fun outdoor activity. + Play “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” before the wiffle ball game begins! + Children can line up to hit the wiffle ball off of the stand. + They can go around the bases while everyone cheers for them! Wiffle T-ball Materials + Bases + Chairs + Bat + Wiffle Balls + Bucket of water + Cones Instructions 1. Use baseball materials and any other materials available to create an obstacle course for your kids to complete. 2. Set up different challenges as the kids go around the bases. Example: Hop on one foot - Walk/roll backwards - Hold a wiffle ball on your head - Dance 3. Move between cones 4. Allow the children to take turns going through the obstacle course. 5. Have fun!
MOVIE Everyone’s Hero The Little Mermaid For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit recesshub.com.
93 —
“
rEcess has opened first our eyes, and then our hearts to a new mindset, and now a ministry of inclusiveness in our community. Through the rEcess program, longterm relationships that cross all sorts of typical barriers have been initiated and fostered.
“ ”Thad Adams, rEcess Co-Director
rEcess Report rEcess date
Number of children with disabilities
Number of siblings
Number of volunteers
Medical Professional
Sumbit this information at www.recesshub.com rEcess notes
95 —
TOP 5 Food All children—both sibling track and 1-to-1 track—are only allowed to eat food they have brought with them.
Medical Needs 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 .
Parent Packet 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.
Never Alone 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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