Do you ever wonder why some kids fall into a path of addiction and suffering or get in trouble with the law while other kids in similar environments thrive and grow? Research shows clearly that one major variable is social-emotional skills; particularly the ability to be aware of emotions, accept them and to some extent control them. This is referred to as self-regulation.
"If there is one thing we should be doing to help reduce the risk of developing addiction and mental health issues, it is to help children in primary and senior public schools learn emotional self regulation and distress tolerance." Dr. Ronald Fraser, MD, CSPQ, FRCPC, McGill & Dalhousie University
At The CAST Projects we have developed a program aimed to achieve just this. Along with The Abundance Project, we have developed an after school program with a healthy eating and cooking component as well as emotional skill awareness and adeptness sessions called CHOP-talk. We are pleased to use the family dinner model as a place to connect, share our food and discuss important topics. The Grade 7/8 students from Percy Centennial Public School completed a pilot project in the fall of 2016 at The Gathering Place at St. Paul’s United Church that was successful in every way. We were pleased to have a waiting list to attend a
" Self-regulation is an essential capacity for learning and healthy human development. Working together to foster self-regulation in kids, and the adults that support them, we can change lives and build healthier, more sustainable communities." The Canadian Self Regulation Initiative This program helps youth in all aspects of their lives – relationships, communication skills, physiological wellness, academic success, employment and personal contentment.
"I think everyone should do CHOPtalk. We may never have to find x,y, and z but cooking and feelings are skills that everyone should have" Participant
"We learned how to share our feelings and put the wordless into words" Participant
"Before I went to CHOPtalk I only knew how to cook noodles. Now I know how to cook a whole whack of healthy food! Participant _____________________________________
NOTE: This program ran in Warkworth for several years and is no longer being offered. To inquire about help with a similar program email us and we'd be happy to help! [email protected] _____________________________________ FAQ's How do kids get to and from the program? The kids walk directly from the school to the Gathering Place at St. Paul's. The 6:30 pick up time is the responsibility of parents or guardians.
What if my child has an allergy? We are more than happy to connect with parents in order to create an accommodating environment for all youth.
When does the program run? Tuesdays after school.
Is there a cost to attend? No - we make every effort to cover program costs ourselves - donations and sponsorship opportunities are always welcome though!
I'd like to help. How do I donate? Email below.
I'd like to donate, do you issue tax receipts? Yes. The CAST Projects is a fully Registered Canadian charity.
MADE POSSIBLE WITH THE SUPPORT OF: ALLEN INSURANCE THE ABUNDANCE PROJECT ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH DONATIONS AND LOCAL SUPPORTERS LIKE YOU!
Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Charitable #: 874839806RR001 [email protected] 705-749-6145