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Kelli is an experienced group leader who began leading Choices groups in 2005. She wanted to find a good program for a Child In Need of Care / Non Abuse Neglect and First Time Offender Diversion Group that the District Attorney in her county wanted her agency to form. Kelli indicated that she wanted a program that would keep the kid's attention, build their self-esteem, and effectively work with them on their decision making skills. She agreed to try the Choices program. Within the first six-months, this is what she had to say about the program. She remains one of the strongest supporters of the program and can't wait to start the Parent Groups.
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One thing that I enjoy about the Choices program is watching the changes that "my kids" make, especially the juvenile offenders. I can watch them come into group with a proud cocky attitude about what they did, slowly it changes to feeling embarrassed about what they did and then I get the opportunity to see them feel sorry and regretful for their actions, and realizing through different eyes what they did and who it affected.
The Choices Program in general is diversified enough to allow the instructor to bring their own experience into the program, yet provide instructions for those just starting out. The program involves little planning time before group, every chapter has activities for the youth, and there are evaluative reports for the instructor in the chapters. The program is designed to intertwine with movies, cards, music, workbooks, games and much more.
The two parts I personally enjoy the best are the stories from the Chicken Soup books; they allow the youth to relate to the story without personalizing it, then slowly they change into making it personal and about themselves. I believe the stories are a strong part of the program to help kids realize they are not alone with their feelings and in the world. The second part that I enjoy is the book is easy to read and easy for the kids to follow. You do not have to spend the entire time translating what the meaning / lesson is to the kids. The program uses examples that youth would actually encounter in their everyday life. Many times books are written to prove the author is worthy of their initials behind their name, and this one is written with the kids in mind. Okay a third thing. I like how the program can be used one-on-one or in a discussion form. Fourth - A main part of the program is that it starts at the basics...Decisions, Values, Attitudes, Peer/Family Pressures, Responsibilities, Goals. It covers the whole spectrum, not just anger management, family skills, life skills...
Basically Sarah - you hit the jackpot when you wrote the Choices Program, I like every aspect about the program. Sorry I could not sum it up in a "one-liner" there is just too much to say about this program.
Thanks! Kelli
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