Encompass Adoptees’ youth program is for kids adopted, in fostered care, or in kinship care between 7-12/13 years old. It combines elements of both a support group and a mentoring program, and offers parents 3 hrs of daytime respite. The program curriculum is designed by an adult adoptee who is also a therapist, to offer aer-based activities and interactions that promote reliance building, character development, and support in processing experiences related to being adopted, fostered, and/or kinshipped.
The program is developed and facilitated by adult mentors who have lived experience and are available to youth throughout the program at a ratio of one mentor per one-two youth.
Activities differ each month.
Schedule:
10:50 Arrive & Settle in
11- 12:15 Art & Discussion Activity: focused on social-emotional learning and resiliency related to topics that specifically tie to the experience of those adopted/fostered/in kinship care. Intended to be more quiet, creative, conversational, and reflective
12:15- 1:pm Lunch & 20 min outside game (if weather permits)- Please bring clothing items to accommodate today’s weather. This is something we have recently added based on the kid’s request (kids bring a packed meal- microwave available)
1- 2pm Art Exploration & Learning Activity: Geared toward exploration, learning a new art skill, trying something new, and seeing themselves succeed.
2:00pm Final pick up
2-3pm Mentor Meeting & Debrief