BRACEBRIDGE BUSINESS OFFERS SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE ARCHERY, FORT BUILDING, CAMPFIRES, DRUM CIRCLES AND MUSIC

Sherwood Forest Respite Service and Educational Support, created by founders Thomas Cowan and Michelle Hodge, is a new Muskoka business.

It offers intensive support, tutoring, reading recovery, academic support, IEP (individual education plan) safety plan support, family advocacy, ASD swimming support and small group activities as well as inclusive groups of up to 20 participants.

"We encourage parents to take part in these larger groups as

Hodge.

"We believe the best way for young people to learn is

well,"

said by doing things. Engaging in meaningful discussions about the world around us, discovering and fostering strengths to build self esteem and confidence."

The programs are designed to help small groups of children, giving them attention and catering to their individual needs. Cowan and Hodge have outdoor programming including activities such as archery, fort building, campfires, drum circles and music.

"The drum circle is a way for children to identify the feelings within their own bodies and how they can change ... we call it listen to your body," said Cowan.

Their outdoor programming is intended to allow children to connect with nature.

"We are surrounded by the beauty of the forest and (children) build self-confidence in their accomplishments here," said Cowan.

Sherwood Forest Respite and Educational Support is hoping to add more programming for new parents and small groups on weekends.

"Our mission is to support all families with children, and help them understand that with every behaviour is a feeling and to allow the feelings to exist, and that they are a way our minds are communicating with our bodies and the goal is to listen to our bodies," said Cowan.

Cowan quoted their mission statement as: "We belong, we are all worthy, we all have feelings, and we are not our thoughts or feelings, but someone much more amazing."

For more information including hours and pricing, see sherwoodforestsupport.com.