rEcess Curriculum 2021-2022 by 99 Balloons

CURRICULUM

CURRICULUM CONTENTS Each month contains the following curriculum contents:

+ VOLUNTEER HUDDLE Helpful strategies and reminders for equipping volunteers

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

+ HIGHLIGHT Disability education and information to further engage and equip your rEcess volunteers

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

+ 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

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

A NOTE FROM 99 BALLOONS rEcess Directors, Our theme for the 2021-2022 rEcess year is “bEcause of” which comes from a favorite verse of mine in Lamentations 3. “Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Because of the Lord’s love, we do what we do. Because of His love, we are not consumed. Because of His love, we are collectively spurred on to provide respite, foster relationships, and be a tangible reminder to families of God’s faithfulness. After the past year and a half, we have all endured something unimaginable that halted a lot of our in-person rEcess programming. We all tasted a tiny fraction of the isolation our families experience on a daily basis. But, because of rEcess, we are changing that story, and Covid19 did not stop the Lord from working in each and every one of our lives. Because of your obedience and stewardship, our rEcess families were not alone. You leaned in further. You loved so well. You saw the bigger picture. You made it happen in small ways and big ways. And it was beautiful to see.

As you explore this year’s curriculum, we hope you will feel encouraged as you hear different stories and perspectives of how rEcess has impacted families, parents, volunteers, and directors’ lives. We continue to stand in awe of the life change happening because you consistently invite families experiencing disability into your lives, buildings, and communities. Because of the Lord. Because of rEcess. Because of you and your team. May God be glorified and communities changed for good.

Rebecca Wall Programs Director, 99 Balloons

6 —

Monthly Materials List

INDOOR SUGGESTIONS

OUTDOOR SUGGESTIONS

Sensory Bins

Sidewalk Chalk

+ Play-Doh + Beads + Sand + Squishy Toys + 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

Bubbles Water Table Sports Balls Playground

+ SEPTEMBER

+ NOVEMBER

Craft 1 String, Assorted beads (colors and letters), Scissors

Craft 1 Army men, Coffee filters, Markers, Hole punch, Dental floss, Tape

Craft 2 Castle printable, White cardstock paper, Crayons or markers, Scissors, Large paper plates, Stapler, Light blue tissue paper, Glitter, rhinestones, or stickers

Craft 2 Red and white Popsicle sticks, Glue, White and blue craft gems

Sensory Activity Craft gems, Rice, Plastic container, Spoon Large Group Youtube.com, Glow sticks, Crowns and tiaras Movie Cinderalla, Frozen, Tangled

+ OCTOBER Craft 1 White cardstock paper, Watercolor paints and brushes, Googly eyes, Glue Craft 2 Apples, Orange paint, Googly eyes, Glue, Green and brown pipe cleaners, White cardstock paper, Pencil Sensory Activity Empty water bottles, Glitter, Marbles, Water Buttons, Gems, Sand, Rice Large Group Orange balloon, Pencils, Pennies, Marbles, Double-sided tape, Pantyhose, 2 large bowls, Cotton balls, Spoon, Blindfold or bandana Movie Raya and the Last Dragon, Croods, Peter Pan

Sensory Activity Sand, Beans, Plastic army men, Plastic container Large Group Camo bandanas, Black face paint, Whistle, Obstacle course materials (chairs, cones, balls, jump rope) Movie Mulan, Toy Story

+ DECEMBER Craft 1 Paper plate, Green paint, Glue, Tape, Pom poms Craft 2 Green paper or cardstock, Red paper or cardstock, Glue, White pom pom, Sequins Sensory Activity Cotton balls, Black buttons, Plastic container Large Group Printed Christmas cards, Printed Christmas Search and Find cards, Tape, Pencils, Clipboards Movie The Grinch, The Star

I N T RO

IN TRO

Monthly Activity Ideas

7 —

8 —

+ JANUARY

Craft 2 Paper plates, Scissors, Popsicle stick, Pipe cleaners, Construction paper Sensory Activity Variety of stuffed animals Large Group Printable Bingo cards, Pom poms or Beans, Prizes Movie The Secret Life of Pets, Zootopia, 101 Dalmatians

+ FEBRUARY Craft 1 Printed Mickey and Minnie outlines, Assorted buttons (red, black, pink, white), Glue, Crayons Craft 2 Paper plates, Gold paint, Paintbrush, Jewels, Glitter, Glue, Black construction paper Sensory Activity: Marbles, Plastic fish, Small net or scoop, Container Large Group Disney Duo cards, Large Popsicle sticks, Disney Sing-Along Playlist Movie Shrek, Lady and the Tramp

Craft 1 Toilet paper rolls, Scissors, Glue, Hole punch, Decorative items (colorful pom poms, sequins, jewels), Markers, Stickers, Yarn Craft 2 Construction paper, Various paint colors, Paintbrush, Paper plate Sensory Activity Water beads, Spoon or scoop Large Group Leis, Youtube.com Movie Moana

+ APRIL Craft 1 Paper plate, Colorful tissue paper, Glitter, Glue, Popsicle stick Craft 2 Red construction paper, Small paper plate, Glue, Scissors, Colorful pom poms Sensory Activity Pom poms, Pipe cleaners, Paper, Glue

+ MAY Craft 1 Pipe cleaners, Pom poms, Googly eyes, Glue Craft 2 Coffee filters, Clothespins, Washable markers, Water, Pipe cleaners Sensory Activity Parachute, Foam balls Large Group Microphone props or costumes Movie Sing, High School Musical

+ BONUS Craft 1 Colorful cardstock paper, Decorative items (jewels, pom poms, sequins), Markers, Scissors, Glue Craft 2 Construction paper, Markers, Pom poms, Glue Sensory Activity Colored rice, Cupcake tin, Spoons or scoops

Large Group Printed Candyland Walk game, Music, Prizes, Bowl

Large Group Birthday party hats, Kazoos, Streamers, Balloons, Stick-on bows, Cardboard or large piece of wrapping paper, Blindfold or bandana

Movie Mary Poppins, Trolls, Inside Out

Movie Soul, The One and Only Ivan

9 — I N T RO

I N T RO

Craft 1 Googly eyes, Markers, Glue, Green construction paper, Scissors

+ MARCH

August 2021

August Checklist

AU G U S T

TO DO Send rEcess dates to 99 Balloons. Add your rEcess events to the HUB. Reserve location for monthly rEcess events.

rEcess Planning SUGGESTIONS end a “Save the Date” email or postcard to S families and volunteers with rEcess dates for 2020-2021.

Refill your rEcess First-aid kit.

ake a plan for feeding your volunteers at each M rEcess event.

P rint off Medication Consent & Incident Report forms.

chedule a photographer to snap quality S pictures of your rEcess this year.

ecure a Medical Professional for each S rEcess event.

L aminate monthly craft instructions found on the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

J oin “99 Balloons rEcess Directors” Facebook group.

re you on the Disability Ministry Locator A website? If not, input your church’s information here: abilityministry.com/disability-ministrylocator

NEW FAMILIES? M ake sure new families submit their “Parent Packet”. ake sure Medical Professional reviews M new Parent Packets.

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

heck that all background checks are current. C (We recommend running background checks every 3 years.)

13 — AU G U S T

12 —

Celebrate your rEcess Birthday!

Celebrate what God is doing in your city, wear party hats, order party poppers, and sing “Happy Birthday” to rEcess! On the month you started rEcess, don’t use the assigned curriculum. Flip to the back of this book and use the optional month curriculum which is throwing a birthday party for your rEcess site! For example, 99 Balloons’ very first rEcess was in November of 2008. We will be hosting our birthday party this November!

September 2021

Volunteer Huddle

September Highlight

19 —

ASSIGNMENTS

PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT

SEPTEMBER

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.)

“I have seen and learned a level of authentic joy that only comes from the Lord. While our world is concerned with appearance and increasing others’ perception of one’s self, our rEcess kids have taught me what it truly means to find identity in Christ and that our worth is in Him.” Jason Delph, rEcess director, TX

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

20 —

CRAFT 1 The Crown Jewels Materials + String + Assorted beads (colors and letters) + Scissors Instructions 1. Make a colorful and sparkly necklace that belongs to royalty. 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.

LARGE GROUP The rEcess Royal Ball

Materials + Craft gems + Rice + Plastic container + Spoon

Materials + Access to youtube.com + Glow sticks + Crowns and tiaras

Instructions 1. Hide the gems in the container of rice. 2. The child will search for the “royal jewels.”

Instructions 1. Pass out glow sticks, crowns, and tiaras and get ready for the Royal Ball. 2. Have kids enter one at a time by announcing their names and making them feel special. 3. Project “Just Dance” videos found on youtube. com for everyone to imitate during the party. 4. Play other party music for freestyle dance time.

MOVIE

Cinderella, Frozen, Tangled

CRAFT 2 Castle in the Sky Materials + Castle printable (99 Balloons Google Drive) + White cardstock paper + Crayons or markers + Scissors + Large paper plates cut in half + Stapler + Light blue tissue paper cut into small squares + Glitter, rhinestones, or stickers Instructions 1. Print and pre-cut castles. 2. Color and decorate your castle. 3. Glue the tissue paper onto a paper plate half. 4. Staple the castle to the back of the paper plate. 5. Add any last-minute decorations to finish your castle.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

21 — SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

RECESS ROYALTY

SENSORY ACTIVITY Royal Jewels Hunt

rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

SEPTEMBER

rEcess date

23 —

24 —

October 2021

October Highlight

ASSIGNMENTS

STIMMING

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 “The establishment of coordinated rEcess events and activities was perhaps the most important and impactful step our inclusion ministry took this past year and a half. We have seen our volunteer base, leadership team, and diversity of families supported explode exponentially in number, but more importantly, in the depth of care, relationship, and service. rEcess has absolutely changed the way my church views disability and what that means for authentic discipleship and belonging.” Bronwyn Murphy, rEcess director, CA

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

TONIGHT’S INFO

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?

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!

EQUIPPING

SCRIPTURE

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

“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

27 — O C TO B E R

Volunteer Huddle

28 —

CRAFT 1 Apple Pumpkin Prints Materials + Apples (cut in half) + Orange paint + Googly eyes + Glue + Green and brown pipe cleaners + White cardstock paper Instructions 1. Using a paintbrush, brush orange paint onto the apple half. 2. Press the apple to the white cardstock paper. Make as many as you want! 3. Cut your brown pipe cleaner to make a small stem. Glue it to the pumpkin. 4. Twist the green pipe cleaner around the pencil so that creates a curly leaf. Glue it to the pumpkin. 5. Glue the googly eyes to your pumpkin once it has dried a bit.

CRAFT 2 Watercolor Pumpkins Materials + White cardstock paper + Watercolor paints and brushes + Googly eyes + Glue Instructions 1. Allow the kids to paint a pumpkin using watercolors. 2. Glue the googly eyes onto their pumpkin. 3. Set out the pumpkin to dry. For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

LARGE GROUP The rEcess Game Show

Materials + Empty water bottles + Glitter + Water + Marbles + Buttons + Gems + Sand + Rice

Materials + Orange balloon + Pencils + Pennies + Marbles + Double-sided tape + Pantyhose + 2 large bowls + Cotton balls + Spoon + Blindfold or bandana

Instructions 1. Fill the water bottles with a variety of materials and allow the kids to play with them or make their own sensory bottle.

Minute-To-Win-It Games Pumpkin Bop + The players must put the pencil in their mouths and use it to keep the balloon in the air for one minute. No using any other body parts! Penny Stack + See how many pennies you can stack in 60 seconds while only using one hand. Sticky Marbles + Players roll marbles from one side of the table to the other. In one minute, the players will try to get as many marbles as possible to stick on double-sided tape. A Penny Earned + Place one penny in each toe of a pair of pantyhose. Then, have the player wear the hose on their arms like sleeves. They have one minute to retrieve the pennies and remove the pantyhose. Cotton Ball Scoop + Wearing a blindfold and using a spoon, scoop as many cotton balls from one bowl into another bowl as possible. See how many cotton balls they successfully transfer in one minute.

MOVIE

Raya and the Last Dragon, Croods, Peter Pan

29 — O C TO B E R

O C TO B E R

RECESS GAME NIGHT

SENSORY ACTIVITY Bottles of Fun!

rEcess Report

31 —

rEcess date

O C TO B E R

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

November 2021

Volunteer Huddle

November Highlight

35 —

ASSIGNMENTS

SIBLINGS

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.

“I have witnessed so many churches being empowered to serve and show the love and care of Jesus to families experiencing disability in their community. It has been an unspeakable joy to watch this simple seed bear the fruit of relationships where there was once isolation. For me personally, rEcess allows me to know that a break is coming. That there is a time on the calendar set aside where I will sit across from my wife, and we will have a conversation and time together we would not have but for the volunteers at rEcess.” Matt Mooney, 99 Balloons Founder, AR

TOP 5

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

TONIGHT’S INFO

EQUIPPING

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

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!

DID YOU KNOW?

99 Balloons has partners in Haiti, Uganda, Nicaragua, and South 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 —

CRAFT 1 American Flag Materials + Red and white Popsicle sticks + Glue + White and blue craft gems Instructions 1. Line up and alternate 4 red Popsicle sticks and 3 white Popsicle sticks. 2. Put a small dot of glue on one end of each stick and glue it to the white Popsicle stick that will be the flagpole. 3. Glue the blue and white gems in the right corner of your flag to resemble stars.

CRAFT 2 Parahute Materials + Army men (amazon.com) + Coffee filters + Markers + Hole punch + Dental floss + Tape Instructions 1. Color the parachute to look like camouflage. 2. Cut the dental floss so that each piece is about a foot long. 3. Loop each string under the army figure’s arms. 4. Push the ends of the dental floss (one through each of the 4 holes) and secure with a tiny piece of tape. 5. Let your parachute fly!

Army Adventure Materials + Sand + Beans + Plastic army men + Plastic container Instructions 1. Create two (or more) containers for the children to use the army men. 2. Allow the child to manipulate and play with the army men.

LARGE GROUP Boot Camp Materials + Camo bandanas + Black face paint + Whistle + Obstacle course materials (chairs, cones, balls, jump rope) Instructions 1. Have a “Sergeant” blow the whistle and line the kids up for the “rEcess Boot Camp.” 2. Tie bandanas on the kids as well as paint two black lines under their eyes (if the kids so desire). 3. The Sergeant will lead the kids in “boot camp” activities. Example: stretches, marching, “sir, yes, sir,” and military-like actions 4. Model the obstacle course activities and have the kids go through the course one-byone.

MOVIE

Mulan, Toy Story

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

37 — N OV E M B E R

N OV E M B E R

RECESS BOOT CAMP

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

39 —

rEcess date

N OV E M B E R

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

December 2021

Volunteer Huddle

December Highlight

43 —

ASSIGNMENTS

TONE OF VOICE

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.)

“I am able to find the image of God in all of His children, regardless of ability. I have a better understanding of God’s unconditional love for me as I have grown to love our rEcess kids unconditionally. I have caught glimpses of pure joy with no agenda, and I have learned to love and to be loved.” James Park, rEcess volunteer, CA

TONIGHT’S INFO

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 —

CRAFT 1 Santa’s Little Helper Hat Materials + Green paper or cardstock + Red paper or cardstock + Glue + White pom pom + Sequins Instructions 1. Cut red paper into strips. 2. Glue or staple strips together to make a headband. 3. Cut green paper into the shape of an elf hat. 4. Glue pom pom on the end of the cap. 5. Glue sequins.

Frosty’s Button Box Materials + Cotton balls + Black buttons + Plastic container Instructions 1. The child will search for Frosty’s black buttons hidden under the cotton balls. 2. You can even have the child stretch out the cotton balls to make a snowman and place the buttons on Frosty.

LARGE GROUP Christmas Search and Find Materials + Printed Christmas cards (99 Balloons Google Drive) + Printed Christmas Search and Find cards for each child (99 Balloons Google Drive) + Tape + Pencils + Clipboards Instructions 1. Hang the Christmas cards all over the building. 2. Send the kids out with their buddy to complete their “Christmas Search and Find” cards. 3. Play Christmas music and have fun!

MOVIE

The Grinch, The Star

CRAFT 2 3-D Christmas Tree Materials + Paper plate + Green paint + Glue + Tape + Pom poms Instructions 1. Cut a quarter of the plate. 2. Roll the plate into cone shape and tape together. 3. Paint the plate. 4. Glue pom poms onto the plate.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

45 — D EC E M B E R

D EC E M B E R

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

47 —

rEcess date

D EC E M B E R

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

49 —

48 —

JA N UA RY

January 2022

Volunteer Huddle

January Highlight

51 —

ASSIGNMENTS

COMMUNITY

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.)

“I’m reminded that my family’s unique story is seen. My daughter with special needs is valued for who she is, not noticed for what she’s not. Her siblings are seen for the journey that God has called them to. And, my wife and I get something to count on whereas most things in our life do not often go as planned!“ Andrew Brill, rEcess parent, AR

TONIGHT’S INFO

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 —

CRAFT 1 Cat Mask Materials + Paper plates + Scissors + Popsicle stick + Pipe cleaners + Construction paper Instructions 1. Cut the paper plate in half. 2. Cut two holes for the eyes. 3. Cut two triangles for the ears and glue. 4. Glue pipe cleaners for whiskers. 5. Glue on a popsicle stick as a way of holding the mask to face.

LARGE GROUP Pet Bingo

Materials + Variety of stuffed animals Instructions 1. Bring a variety of stuffed animals (size and texture) for cuddling or imaginative play.

Materials + Printable BINGO cards (99 Balloons Google Drive) + Pom poms or Beans + Prizes Instructions 1. Play several rounds of Bingo. You may need to find a way to display which Bingo card was called for children to reference.

MOVIE

The Secret Life of Pets, Zootopia

Just for fun, you could invite therapy dogs to come visit your rEcess site!

CRAFT 2 Paper Snake Materials + Googly eyes + Markers + Glue + Green construction paper + Scissors Instructions 1. Cut green paper into strips. 2. Glue the strips into a circle and link circles together. 3. On the last circle, glue the googly eyes and draw a mouth.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

53 — JA N UA RY

JA N UA RY

RECESS LOVES PETS!

SENSORY ACTIVITY Animal Fun!

rEcess Report

55 —

rEcess date

JA N UA RY

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

56 —

February 2022

Volunteer Huddle

February Highlight

59 —

ASSIGNMENTS

LANGUAGE

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 “I now have the incredible opportunity to help start a rEcess and can’t wait to see how this program continues to teach me and grow my heart as I get to learn from and about the experiences of our rEcess families. During my first volunteer experience I asked for a sibling out of fear. Through my time at rEcess, my heart grew to see how underserved this community is and how great our Father’s love is for them. As a teacher, rEcess opened my eyes to how I could better serve kids experiencing disability. I got a masters in Special Education, and now I get to love on students on a daily basis.” Paige Statham, rEcess leadership, TX

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

TONIGHT’S INFO

EQUIPPING

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

The landscape of language is always changing. A good starting point is people-first language. This way we identity our friends as a human being first, and if necessary, we mention their different abilities. For example, instead of “down syndrome girl” say “girl with down syndrome.” However, many in the autistic community prefer to be identified as autistic first. A good rule of thumb is to ask what your friend prefers or model the language used by their parents.

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 —

CRAFT 1 Button Friends Materials + Printed Mickey and Minnie outlines on white cardstock + Assorted buttons (red, black, pink, white) + Glue + Crayons 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!

CRAFT 2 Cinderella’s Coach Materials + Paper plates + Gold paint + Paintbrush + Jewels + Glitter + Glue + Black construction paper

LARGE GROUP

Finding Nemo

Disney Duos

Materials + Marbles + Plastic fish + Small net or scoop + Container

Materials + Disney Duo cards (99 Balloons Google Drive) + Large Popsicle sticks + Tape

Instructions 1. Fill a plastic container with marbles and plastic fish. 2. Have the children search for all of the different fish and sort into groups.

Instructions 1. Spread the kids out around the room. 2. Give each child and/or volunteer a Disney character and tell them to keep their character a secret. 3. When you say go, each person will rush to find their match without talking. 4. When they find their match, you can give them a question to ask their partner. 5. Examples: Favorite Disney movie, Favorite candy, Favorite sport, Favorite restaurant 6. Collect the cards and pass them out again. Repeat the game several times.

MOVIE

Shrek, Lady and the Tramp

Instructions 1. Pre-paint the paper plates with a sparkly gold paint. 2. Cut the wheels and windows out of black construction paper. 3. Decorate Cinderella’s coach with jewels and glitter!

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

61 — FE B RUA RY

FE B RUA RY

A PERFECT PAIR!

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

63 —

rEcess date

FE B RUA RY

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

64 —

65 — M A RC H

March 2022

Volunteer Huddle

March Highlight

67 —

ASSIGNMENTS

ELOPEMENT

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.

TOP 5

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.

TONIGHT’S INFO

Use this time to remind volunteers about exits and the emergency plan in place if a child does elope.

NEW VOLUNTEERS

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

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

“I have watched communities of belonging grow through rEcess. I have witnessed the tears of parents leaving their child with special needs to go on a date for the very first time. I have seen the awe of understanding in a volunteer’s eyes when they realize rEcess kids are just kids who want to play. I have witnessed the change of heart in a church community that welcomes a rEcess site into their building.” Debbie Sutherland, rEcess director, Canada

EQUIPPING

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

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

68 —

CRAFT 1 Treasure Seekers Materials + Toilet paper rolls + Scissors + Glue + Hole punch + Decorative items (colorful pom poms, sequins, jewels) + Markers + Stickers + Yarn Instructions 1. Select pre-glued toilet paper rolls. 2. Glue decorative items onto toilet paper rolls. 3. Hole punch holes on the side of the rolls. 4. Weave yarn through the holes to create a strap.

Water Bead Fun! Materials + Water beads + Spoon or scoop Instructions 1. Allow the child to explore playing with water beads.

LARGE GROUP The rEcess Luau Materials + Limbo stick + Music + Youtube.com + Leis Instructions Let’s Limbo! 1. Have two volunteers hold up the Limbo stick for kids to take turns participating in the Limbo game. 2. Lower the Limbo stick after each round until you have a winner! Let’s Hula! 1. Play a portion of the “Learn Hula from Moana” video found on youtube.com. Have the children and volunteers follow along with Moana to learn how to Hula dance!

MOVIE CRAFT 2 Thumbprint Pineapple

Moana

Materials + Construction paper + Various paint colors + Paintbrush + Paper plate Instructions 1. Pour paint on the plate. 2. Dip your thumb into the paint and place it on the paper. 3. Paint the stem with a paintbrush.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

69 — M A RC H

M A RC H

LET’S LUAU, RECESS!

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

71 —

rEcess date

M A RC H

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

April

2022

Volunteer Huddle

April Highlight

75 —

ASSIGNMENTS

NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION

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.)

“We are wanted as a whole. It feels like a huge picture of wholeness, each person has their role and it ends up being one big party. People and kids are not asked to be something different than they are. I wish people understood how much fun my kids can be when social expectations are lifted off of them and they’re free to be themselves. Unless you come to look for them, they sometimes aren’t seen. rEcess is the place where they are seen.” Joel Fankhauser, rEcess leader and parent, AR

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!

TONIGHT’S INFO

DID YOU KNOW?

EQUIPPING

SCRIPTURE

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

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!

“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

76 —

CRAFT 1 Lollipop Materials + Paper plate + Colorful tissue paper + Glitter + Glue + Popsicle stick Instructions 1. Cut tissue into squares. 2. Put glue on the plate. 3. Place tissue squares on the plate with the glue. 4. Glue the Popsicle stick to the bottom of the plate.

LARGE GROUP Candyland Walk

Materials + Pom poms + Pipe cleaners + Paper + Glue

Materials + Printed Candyland Walk game + Music + Prizes + Bowl

Instructions 1. Use pom poms and pipe cleaners to make different versions of candy. You can choose to glue them onto a piece of paper or not.

Instructions 1. Spread out the Candyland Walk game around the room in a large circle. 2. Each child will start on a piece of the game. 3. As the music starts, they will dance from space to space around the circle. Once the music stops, they freeze on their current spot. 4. The leader will draw a “Candyland card” from the bowl. Whoever is standing on that space will receive a prize. 5. Play as many rounds as you can!

MOVIE CRAFT 2 Gumball Machine

Mary Poppins, Trolls, Inside Out

Materials + Red construction paper + Small paper plate + Glue + Scissors + Colorful pom poms Instructions 1. Cut the construction in a large triangle. 2. Glue the plate to the top of the triangle. 3. Glue the pom poms onto the plate.

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

77 — APRIL

APRIL

CANDYLAND

SENSORY ACTIVITY Make Some Candy!

rEcess Report

79 —

rEcess date

APRIL

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

May

2022

May Highlight

ASSIGNMENTS

AGE-APPROPRIATE INTERACTION

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 “I have been able to see God’s beloved children be treated as such. I have been able to participate in an environment that reflects Heaven; full of inclusion and valuing people for their hearts instead of worldly ability.” Anna Rhodes, 99 Balloons intern, AR

EQUIPPING

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

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 — M AY

Volunteer Huddle

84 —

CRAFT 1 Finger Puppets Materials + Pipe cleaners + Pom poms + Googly eyes + Glue Instructions 1. Twist the pipe cleaner around your finger to make a swirl. 2. Glue a pom pom to the end of the swirl. 3. Glue googly eyes to the pom pom.

Parachute Games

LARGE GROUP Talent Show

Materials + Parachute + Foam balls

Materials + Microphone + Props or costumes brought by the children

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.

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 announce the different acts as they come out on stage. 5. Have fun and take pictures.

MOVIE CRAFT 2 Spring Butterflies

Sing, High School Musical

Materials + Coffee filters + Clothespins + Washable markers + Water + Pipe cleaners Instructions 1. Draw designs with makers on the coffee filters. 2. Spray water on designs so that the colors blend. 3. Let the coffee filter dry. 4. Draw smiley faces on clothespins. 5. Create antennas out of pipe cleaners and glue to the clothespin. 6. Scrunch the coffee filters and pin the clothespin on the filters. For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

85 — M AY

M AY

RECESS HAS TALENT

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

M AY

rEcess date

87 —

88 88 ——

89 — S EOPNTUESM B E R B

I N T RO

Bonus Birthday Month!

Volunteer Huddle

Bonus Month Highlight

91 —

ASSIGNMENTS

SENSORY NEEDS

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.)

“I am able to see the intentionality of the Lord in each one of his creations. rEcess has offered me a new perspective on service. Service isn’t about helping someone in need, service is the intention behind your actions. It’s the conversations held on these Friday nights at rEcess and the ability to see beyond what is on the surface. The Lord is intentional in His plans for each of us, and He intends for us to provide respite for others in the same way that he provided grace on the cross for all his people.” Emily Nelson, 99 Balloons fellow, AR

TONIGHT’S INFO

EQUIPPING

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

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 noisecanceling 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 —

CRAFT 1 Birthday Crown Materials + Colorful cardstock paper + Decorative items (jewels, pom poms, sequins) + Markers + Scissors + Glue Instructions 1. Select a pre-cut crown template. 2. Glue on decorative items. 3. Attach the ends of the crown to fit your head.

CRAFT 2 Birthday Cards Materials + Construction paper + Markers + Pom poms + Glue Instructions 1. Sold construction paper in half. 2. Glue on pom poms. 3. Draw the streamers connected to the pom poms. 4. Write a nice note to someone at your rEcess site.

Sprinkles and Cupcakes! Materials + Colored rice + Cupcake tin + Spoons or scoops Instructions 1. The child will fill the cupcake tins with the “sprinkles” to celebrate rEcess’s birthday!

LARGE GROUP Happy Birthday, rEcess! Materials + Birthday party hats + Kazoos + Streamers + Balloons + Stick-on bows + Decorated cardboard “present” or large piece of wrapping paper cut into a rectangle + Blindfold or bandana Instructions The Birthday Party 1. Make sure everyone has their birthday party supplies. 2. Sing “Happy Birthday To rEcess!” Celebrate however many years your site has been operating. 3. Send kids home with a party favor bag. Example: Candy, Stickers, Bubbles, Tattoos Pin the Bow on the Present 1. Tape the “present” to the wall and hand each child a stick-on bow. Don’t forget to peel the paper off so the bow is sticky and ready to go! 2. Blindfold one child at a time and spin them around a time or two. Point them in the general direction of the present. 3. The child will try to get the bow close to the top of the present without being able to see. 4. Allow the children to have several turns if you have time!

MOVIE

The One and Only Ivan, Soul

For access to craft instructions and additional coloring sheets, please visit the 99 Balloons Google Drive.

93 — BONUS

BONUS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

SENSORY ACTIVITY

rEcess Report

95 —

rEcess date

BONUS

Number of children with disabilities

Number of siblings

Number of volunteers

Medical Professional

rEcess notes

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

Parent Packet

Never Alone

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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