After-School Climbing Program (Ages 5+)

Service Description

In modern education, kids are asked to sit down and listen more, and play and move their bodies less. We are seeing school performance plummet, and "behaviors" and anxiety rise in our school-age population. Our after-school climbing program combines movement with executive functioning therapy - because our kids need to connect with others, feel regulated, move their bodies, and "learn how to learn" now more than ever. Climbing is the ideal environment for executive functioning therapy because it takes place in the real world, and requires mental focus, awareness of safety and rules, planning for where to place your hand or foot, problem solving when the original plan didn't work, and strategy for reaching the next goal. Climbing is a stress reducer, a cognitive challenge, and a diverse social experience, all in one. Although this program was created for kids with ADHD, it is beneficial any child who struggles to pay attention to what's important, make a plan, set goals, start tasks on their own, monitor their progress, check their work, inhibit impulsive actions, adjust based on the situation, "read the room," reflect on progress, and more. No need for a specific diagnosis; our climbing and neuroscience-backed activities are open to all children. Join our Tuesday group from 5:00-6:30pm, at Gripstone Climbing & Fitness from 2/1/22 - 4/26/22. We will talk about how our brains work, practice executive functioning skills, and build relationships that will last a lifetime. All sessions will begin with a check-in and 45 minutes of structured climbing time. Sessions will end with 30 minutes of evidence-based therapy tasks for executive functioning, including some time for academics (i.e., homework/late work, learning strategies, discussions about school, etc.). __ LOGISTICS: * Membership covers 3 months of program attendance. - Cost is $199/month; covers gym access, therapist staffing, equipment. - Space is limited; group capped at 6 kids. This is a neurodiversity affirming program, created by a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) with training and experience in cognitive therapy for adults, teens, and kids. The lead SLP has also been an outdoor program coordinator, trip leader, experiential education facilitator, and climbing wall manager in Colorado. She has advanced training in climbing safety & up-to-date CPR certification. ***** Please contact Shyanne Heise with any questions ***** shyanne@zoahspeech.com (719) 300-4622

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