Entry 11 (Long Activity Facilitation)

Art, Challenge-based, Rhythm/Music


Three groups introduced activities for different categories.  The Art group did book altering.  The Challenge-based group did different activities that required the participants to work as a group and use good communication skills, and the Music/Rhythm group designed homemade musical instruments.

What:
I found the book altering activity to be really interesting and a good use of old books.  I had never heard of this activity and think it would be very beneficial for all populations.  This activity could have different variations based on the age of the population or level of ability.

How:
Book altering can be done as:
Starting with an old book and changing it to be "your own".  You can add pictures form magazines or real photos, ribbon, paper mache, or cutting a secret whole in the middle of the pages of the book.

Why?

This is a great activity for Therapeutic Recreation Specialists to use for self-expression.  This activity lets patients express their creativity and do whatever is on their mind. It could also be used to increase fine motor skills, by use of scissors when cutting out magazine clippings and paper mache. This activity is also great for concentration.    


I would definitely recommend this idea for anyone. It was so much fun and very relaxing for many.

YouTube Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6r7EAgyL1g