Here’s an example of a Creative Crossings program from
start to finish! Remember, each program is created especially
for the unique needs and time frame of a group. All programs
are facilitated by Peggy Rubens, M.Ed, the
founder of Creative Crossings.
I tell you what
to expect from the day and answer any questions. Then we introduce
ourselves to one another using the special Creative Crossings
welcome.
We usually start
the day off by playing Branch Out, a game
that involves a large blanket/playing-board in the shape of
a tree; felt leaves; and questions related to school, work,
home, abilities and interests, favorites, and feelings. Our
first round of Branch Out allows everyone to answer a question
on their own. During the second round, you get to guess how
your mother or daughter would answer the question.
Taking the new
things we have learned about one another, each pair starts
the creation of a fabulous art project depicting the uniqueness
of the relationship and the special qualities that each person
brings to it. There are a variety of art supplie to get you
started (and usually no one wants to stop!).
The Sea
of Adolescence is the longest and richest activity
of the day. Mothers and daughters meet in separate groups
and talk about some of the potential obstacles to positive
communication in the adolescent years. We then compare lists,
often leading to an interesting discussion between generations
about what it means to grow up and what kind of support girls
need. Mother and daughter pairs work together to talk about
the strengths and values they have or would like to develop
to help them make it through potential rocky times.
Then comes the fun part, we throw all of our strengths into
the “Sea of Adolescence” and mothers and/or daughters
must walk through it blindfolded—picking up strengths
and avoiding obstacles.
Balloon
Goals. We talk about how hard it is to make time
for each other in today's busy world. Mothers and daughters
have a serious discussion about what small things they could
do to make time for each other and they put their ideas inside
a balloon. The outside of the balloon is representative of
the things that may prevent you from reaching your goals.
Before you know it, balloons and laughter are everywhere as
we play a game about goal setting.
Make
a Wish: Another game that is both fun and challenging
involves each mother and daughter making a private or public
wish and/or desire for the future. Often this is a very powerful
and moving part of the Creative Crossings process.
Taking all that
we’ve learned and experienced, we go back to the art
project to add the elements from the different activities,
photos, glitter, and last minute touch ups.
We gather back together
in a circle and, using some very wacky postcards, share our
thoughts about the day and how the experience affected you.
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