Make Your Own Shadows

Make your own shadows. Set up a light source (use a lamp or even the flashlight from a cellphone) and project it against a wall (the lighter the wall color, the better) then turn out the lights in the room. Put objects between the light source and the wall. What do...

Creative Writing

Therapeutic writing is a very powerful tool; studies have shown that writing about trauma helps release it. While it’s good to encourage children and young adults to write to a specific topic or in a specific style (see the language arts section for more ideas and...

Creative Expression

Find materials that are suitable for the age/ability of your child(ren) and allow freedom for creativity of expression. Materials can include paint, crayons, paper/scissors/glue, clay, bread dough, or even building blocks. Suggested prompts: Create a...

Make a Hope Tree

Create a “Hope Tree” for your class or home. Using the template provided in Appendix A, cut out cherry blossoms. Paint or color them. Have children write a word or phrase on the blossoms describing what brings them hope. Create a tree from construction paper, pipe...

Grounding and Orienting

To help your child(ren) ground themselves or focus, engage them in this simple activity. Begin with a grounding exercise. This can include standing up or sitting tall, noticing their feet firmly on the ground, and then putting their focus into their feet and feeling...