Who is it for?
Kaleidoscopes is
primarily aimed at teachers of primary school children, including
those who are perhaps new to this emerging area of the curriculum.
It is also suitable for adolescents, as in each session’s apparent
simplicity there is a depth appropriate to all levels.
Psychologists,
creative arts therapists, occupational therapists and counsellors
working with young people will find the Kaleidoscopes framework a
useful tool to use on an individual or group basis.
An extension of
the program, ‘Beyond Purple – A Journey in Colour’, has been developed
to serve those working with adults including psychologists, creative
arts therapists, occupational therapists and counsellors. Its use is
enhanced by our imaginations, philosophies and areas of expertise.
How is it Implemented?
The program is
ideally undertaken over a fifteen week period of one lesson per
week with clear step-by-step instructions provided. It is
divided into 3 Modules. Extension activities provided may overlap
with other classroom activities or components of the curriculum.
It is generally
used by classes or groups of children but can also be appropriate
for individuals or parent-child workshops. It can be particularly
beneficial in the latter to foster greater understanding, improved
relationships, and reciprocal awareness, trust, insight, respect and
communication between parents and children.
It is designed
to be used as many times during the school year or school life as
you feel is necessary, as it is a ‘tool’ which remains appropriate
to the developmental stages of the children. Varied and quite
different results, discussions and insights will occur each time it
is used. Some teachers may find it beneficial to use a guided
relaxation session and/or listening to relaxing music prior to each
session. A designated ‘Kaleidoscope Corner’ is encouraged for use by
the children during free time, and to serve as a reminder of skills
learnt.
The program predominantly revolves around 45
Kaleidoscope Cards consisting of 33 ‘window’ and 12
‘doorway’ cards which are the main tools in this program.
