Good Breaks, Great Beginnings

Pictured, teen leader with Ms.Mel Joy and her Dorcas Project partcipants

Yesterday was the first day back in session for our teens here at the Maria Kaupas Center. With two added cold weather advisories, the students got a break a little bit longer than they'd expected!

We were so excited to see them back yesterday--we could hardly contain our excitement! This sentiment was not lost on the teens. They arrived at 4:00 and were full of happiness, energy, and a renewed sense of optimism.

During Reflection we talked about two positive things everyone did over break.

Many of their shared experiences were simple. Our teens were excited to do things like--

"I got to spend quality time with my dad"

"I went to a movie with my friends."

"I cooked with my brother."

"I hung out with my cousins."

"I slept a lot."

"We bopped every day!"

Simple, right? Nothing too extravagant-- but this is an important note. Teens today face stresses and hardships unknown to the generations previous. While we can empathize, we cannot truly understand what it is to be a teen today.  A simple day of stress-free relaxation is what is needed, now and again.

The Maria Kaupas Center aims to be that centering place, that homing beacon. Teens came come after a rigorous day of academics, and just, unwind. There is no mandatory participation here. You are always welcome, and participate as you are able. While everyone attends Reflection every day, the teens are free to seek homework help, play games, watch movies, do puzzles, draw, paint, or any other safe activity that can help them center themselves after a hectic day of navigating emotional and physical growth.

It was so awesome to see their bright, refreshed smiles.

We hope that everyday the time they spend with us will contribute to a more positive worldview, overall.

 In turn, we also hope it leads to many days with those same bright smiles.