Life Skills for Self Reliance
Definition: A large group of psycho-social and interpersonal skills which can help people make informed decisions, communicate effectively, and develop coping and self-management skills that may help them lead a healthy and productive life. Life skills may be directed toward personal actions and actions toward others, as well as actions to change the surrounding environment to make it conducive to health. (Source: UNICEF)
Frogs Landing currently hosts life skills and socialization groups (Croakaramas) for children (6-20) and in the future for our smaller folks as well. These groups offer opportunities to interact with others both within the group and in the community. Like all of Frogs Landing's programs, Croakaramas are geared to the special qualities of each child and each group. The format of the group is predictable and comfortable for the kids while encouraging experimentation. While not typical educational or social skills training, Crocaramas demonstrate and allow ample successful social experiences to encourage ongoing social interactions. Laughter and fun is the goal.
Group activities offer our kids a forum to interact with others in a relaxed atmosphere where anxiety is minimized. It is our belief that spectrum kids find most social experiences to be so highly anxiety producing as to both shun and close out these opportunities. Croakaramas work towards relaxation and comfort. As spectrum kids often have difficulties with multipart directions and want instant success, group activities are presented in a manner that minimizes frustration. There are many experiences, such as school, in which kids must adhere to very specific rules and guidelines. We attempt to offer a rest from these demands and at the same time guide appropriate behaviors.
At Croakaramas there are many opportunities for success. Interactions with peers are encouraged and fostered through mutually enjoyed experiences based on each child's specific interests. As our kids develop shared experiences these become the foundation of "friendships" and future interactions. Croakaramas take place both within the group room and, when the groups are ready, in the community. Such things as ordering from a menu without adult help, staying with peers at an arcade, or asking help from clerks at a video store are examples of the types of community experiences that our kids need. Experience such as these are prepared for, incorporated into fun activities, and become the basis for more advanced activities in the future. Prior to entertaining new activities, groups prepare for many possible scenarios. This is accomplished through social stories, pictures, and reasonable explanations. It is our experience that spectrum kids are far more likely to accept new experiences when they are given the reasons and details ahead of time. As our kids realize that we understand their unique interests and sensory needs; that we help guard them from sensory overload; and that we will allow them adequate time in which to make decisions for themselves, they risk new behaviors.
While children are at the Croakarama their parents are welcome to socialize and exchange information. A casual atmosphere allows us to learn from each other. Parents are also encouraged to enjoy their time. Activities for neuro-typical peers may, sometimes, be added to weekend Croakaramas.
When you enroll your child in a Croakarama, an appointment will be made to meet with your family and each child. This meeting is used to discuss what you hope to see for your child, the child's interests and skills, and the appropriateness of the groups for the child. Together our staff and your family will explore whether Frogs Landing can provide a safe and comfortable environment for the child. Frogs Landing will only accept children for whom the staff feels they can offer a quality service.