Welcome!
Lots of kids have participated in the Friendship Group at their elementary school this year. We created this page as a place to get basic information on some of the topics and activities that we work on during group.
Topics/Content:
- Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships
- Big Feelings! (and ways to manage them)
- Safety Planning
- This is Your Brain
- Upstairs & downstairs brain
- Left brain, right brain
- Keep your brain healthy!
Activities:
- Painting, drawing, coloring, mosaics (on paper, rocks, birdhouse, etc.)
- Sculpting/creating with modeling clay
- Mindful games (ex: UnGame, “Stop,Think & Relax,” Jenga mashups)
- Mind in a Bottle
- Snapping, Clapping & Tapping
- Mindfulness Practices:
- Breathing
- Moving (stretching, walking, relaxing)
- Eating (5 sense awareness)
- Paying attention/noticing (Dual Awareness)
FAQ:
How do I get my child into a Friendship Group?
If you know that there are already Friendship Groups being held at your child’s school, just speak to his/her teacher, guidance counselor or principal and ask that your child be added to a group. If there isn’t a Friendship Group at your child’s school (or if you don’t know), then call FRC to find out more.
Why was my child selected to be in a Friendship Group?
There are many reasons why your child’s teacher, guidance counselor or principal may have recommended your child to join the group. You can discuss those reasons specifically with someone at the school, but typically it’s because they believe your child would benefit from getting extra support and instruction to improve their ability to succeed academically, have better interactions with others, and to handle everyday stressors.
What if my child starts attending the Friendship Group but then doesn’t want to continue?
Participation in group is voluntary — if they want to stop attending the group, they can let our staff, their teacher, the guidance counselor or principal know. If possible we like to talk to the child to understand why they wish to stop the group (sometimes we can make adjustments that helps the child remain in the group).
Do you have groups for older youth?
Yes! Teens (Middle & High School) can participate in Club Empowerment groups. Call us to see if a group is meeting in your area or to get one started in your local community!
If you have more questions or need additional information, please call us at: 1.276.228.3522.