Let Them Speak, and then Listen

Acceptance has been something we've been discussing a lot lately, and as we apply it in our therapy on a new level we've seen amazing responses from the children and adults we serve.  Everyone wants to be accepted, no matter who they are and whether they have a disability or not.  As those who support individuals with disabilities, it's up to us to lead our communities by SHOWING we accept these incredible people whole heartedly.  That includes giving them opportunities to express themselves in any way AND responding.  By doing this, we often get pleasant surprises of how smart, funny and talented the people of Journeys are, but we've got to give them the opportunity and show that we accept them first.

The link below is a video we shared with our employees last week.  It isn't a Journeys story but is inspiring still the same so I hope you enjoy it!
Autistic Girl Expresses Profound Intelligence

Kids Choice

Throughout the fall we had each kid at the Rexburg center be in charge of a group activity for everyone.  It was so fun to see what they all came up with and how it played out!  Activities ranged from human foosball to tours of Sugar City, learning and competing with BeyBlades, sugar cookie candy canes and so much more. 

The activities were super fun and the kids did great stepping up to teach their peers about what they love to do and how to participate. 

Intense Musical Chair Competitions












                                                                 Potato Car Races

Human Knot Races

Rubberband Cars

Games at the Park

Fishing at Beaver Dick Park


Christmas Party

Santa made time in his Christmas preparations to stop by the Journeys Kids Christmas party to spread holiday cheer and take last minute requests. The kids made gingerbread houses, played games, enjoyed treats, and we all had a great time!




































Rigby Light Parade

Journeys had a great float in the Rigby Light Parade. A special thanks to Todd Stowell for his cool old tractor. We enjoyed each other's company afterward at the Activity Center as we warmed up to hot chocolate and donuts. What a fun night!



Gingerbread Houses

We made gingerbread houses (Ok, actually graham cracker houses) at the Rigby Adult Center on Nov 29th.  They were well constructed, beautifully decorated, and unquestionably delicious!

Thanksgiving Feast at Journeys!

On Nov 22nd we partook in a proper Thanksgiving Feast.  We ate turkeys, potatoes, yams, salads, rolls, and the rest of the fixings.  And of course lots of delicious desserts!


 
 

Music Performance at Festival of Trees

Our Adult participants put in a lot of practice time over the last few months in preparation for our performance at festival of trees.  They did such a great job sharing the Christmas spirit! 

A special thanks to Carmen, Cindy, and Kip for thier musical talents.





Cake Decorating

On 11/8/11 the Rigby Adult Center had a cake decorating workshop.  They made their own cakes and frosting before learning how to decorate them.


How did it go? Absolutely delicious!