Why This Class?
It's really hard being a kid. ...and who knows that better than other kids? This interactive, virtual youth group provides an environment where pre-teen girls, facing many of the same life challenges, can come together and learn techniques on how to handle day-to-day stress and anxiety.

This group is specifically geared towards pre-teen girls, an age bracket that bridges the gap between being a "kid" in grade school and a "young adult" entering high school. Adolescence is a crucial time for self-discovery, where questions like "Who am I?" and "What do I believe?" often arise. Many young girls are dealing with new issues like transitioning to junior high (middle school), menstruation, changing bodies, fat-shaming, social media influences, bullying, peer pressure, and more.

What Will Be Taught?
This class provides a safe space for pre-teens (ages 11-13) to learn and grow. Learning skills that help when facing issues like school and relationship struggles, making friends, bullying, body changes, body image, gender identity, peer pressure, parent pressures/divorce, fears, depression, self-harm, and more. Our focus is on teaching valuable life skills that can help navigate these challenges through these challenges.

Class Structure:
Each week, we will cover a different topic through a mix of interactive activities, discussions, and practical exercises. 

*Important Note:
Your comfort is my top priority. You will never be put on the spot or expected to ask or answer a question if you do not wish to. This is your space to learn and grow without additional stressors.

Interactive Lectures: 
Short, engaging talks on the weekly topic to provide foundational knowledge.

Group Discussions: 
Safe and open discussions where students can ask questions and share their thoughts on the weekly topic.

Activities and Exercises: 
Practical exercises such as journaling, role-playing, and guided meditations to reinforce learning.

Games and Fun Challenges: 
Interactive games and challenges to make learning fun and engaging.

Support and Validation: 
A focus on listening. Developing the skills to understand and validate other’s, even if they have a different opinion. 

Teaching Style:
My teaching style is compassionate, supportive, and interactive. I believe in creating a warm and welcoming environment where every student feels like they can learn, be heard, and valued. I use a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles, including:
Interactive Lectures: To provide foundational knowledge.
Hands-On Activities: To reinforce learning through practice.
Group Discussions: To foster a sense of community and shared understanding.
Personal Reflection: To encourage self-awareness and personal growth.

Interaction with Learners:
Students will have ample opportunities to interact with me and each other through:

Weekly Group Discussions: 
A time for students to ask questions, learn new strategies, and have a basic understanding of mental health.

Interactive Activities: 
Engaging exercises that encourage participation and collaboration.

Q&A Sessions: 
I have messaging time set aside each week for students to ask questions.

Additional Details:
Confidentiality: All discussions are confidential to ensure a safe and open environment for learners to ask questions without fear or judgment.
Parent Updates: Parents can contact me for basic updates on their child's progress in the class at any time.
No Video Files: Recordings will not be released to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of all learners.

Join us for "Big Hugs and Happy Thoughts" and provide your pre-teen with the tools and support they need to thrive during these pivotal years.