Maevis’ “Best of All”

Guest blogger: Kathleen Tynes

We all can appreciate a good routine; walking into a well-known place and knowing exactly what to expect is comforting. That’s why, when Maevis started Leaps & Bounds last spring (her first group program in awhile), she was understandably thrown for a loop!

Maevis had become accustomed to the undivided attention of her doting speech therapist and literacy tutor. She expected, based on recent past experiences, to arrive at the Playhouse, find her 1:1 buddy and go off to do her thing. Instead, she was encouraged to join a group of children sitting at tables and participate in things like, taking attendance, discussions about days of the week and weather, crafting together, and more. Much to everyone’s amusement, Maevis was not enthusiastic about participating.

We get it, change is hard!

Maevis continued to trudge through all the group activities through the spring session, however. She returned week after week; watching, listening, and taking in all the different aspects of this unfamiliar program. 

Spring came and went and Maevis returned for the summer session of Leaps & Bounds. By Week 2, our program leader, Laura, was so excited to share Maevis’ #BestofAll moment. Laura reported, Maevis tried each activity with eagerness and delight. She sang and danced to all the songs, and transitioned between stations with ease.

Way to go, Maevis!

We know change can be hard, but you worked even harder, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to witness you thrive in this group!

Leaps & Bounds is a program geared towards 4-7 year olds. We incorporate many school-ready-skills such as, sitting at a table or in a group and listening to the “teacher”, and transitioning from one activity to another. The participants practice fine motor skills, like gluing and tracing, and gross motor skills, like those used in relay races. We are always looking for volunteers for this program, as this age group can benefit from a lot of hands-on guidance! Please attend the next volunteer orientation to learn more!