Ah, counting down...Like five , four, three, and so on. I used to love doing that. You say that around kids and they are either happy (as in, "Ready, Set, GO!) or squirming because "You're in big trouble mister!" I'm trying to make the most of my countdown. I'm at five. Five days until I go back to work. Yikes!! Where did this summer go and how did it go so fast. How much undivided torch time remains before I have to share that time? BAH HUMBUG.
Now don't get me wrong. I like what I do for a living. It's somewhat crazy working with delinquent boys but it does keep me on my toes and thinking quick. It's not easy to out maneuver an angry teen, but I like the challenge. You might be wondering what they're so angry about. Part of the time I can't answer that (teenage angst doesn't help) and the rest of the time it's just too complicated or appalling (and unethical) to repeat. Like I said, counting down used to be fun and sometimes it still is. And, sometimes I do it to keep from losing my temper...which I have to admit I am pretty good it (keeping it in check I mean.) Considering I've been sworn at in no less than a half a dozen different languages I've done pretty good.
Mostly, I use the good control to make beads and progress with those boys. You'd be surprised at how many of them are impressed with art. Bring a few beads to show them and they are as inquisitive as any kid. Do a gesture drawing while they're playing basketball and they're aghast. Explain the muscle structure behind the drawing and they're in awe. "Is that me?" "Can you draw my face?". And the really important connection, "Will you show me how to do that?"
Art does its' magic!
A relationship is born and during those artistic lessons we can slide in some side-door therapy. First you have to get their attention and art is the best vehicle I've ever seen for that. It doesn't judge you, everyone is welcome, and it embraces it's crazies and eccentrics (uh, Warhol, Van Gogh, Me!). The boys revel in acceptance of any kind and art is the great equalizer. Strong, handsome, weak, or geek...it just doesn't matter.
Keep your eye on the Etsy...I've been busy. Winding up and counting down. Five, four, Three...Ready, Set, GO!
Now don't get me wrong. I like what I do for a living. It's somewhat crazy working with delinquent boys but it does keep me on my toes and thinking quick. It's not easy to out maneuver an angry teen, but I like the challenge. You might be wondering what they're so angry about. Part of the time I can't answer that (teenage angst doesn't help) and the rest of the time it's just too complicated or appalling (and unethical) to repeat. Like I said, counting down used to be fun and sometimes it still is. And, sometimes I do it to keep from losing my temper...which I have to admit I am pretty good it (keeping it in check I mean.) Considering I've been sworn at in no less than a half a dozen different languages I've done pretty good.
Mostly, I use the good control to make beads and progress with those boys. You'd be surprised at how many of them are impressed with art. Bring a few beads to show them and they are as inquisitive as any kid. Do a gesture drawing while they're playing basketball and they're aghast. Explain the muscle structure behind the drawing and they're in awe. "Is that me?" "Can you draw my face?". And the really important connection, "Will you show me how to do that?"
Art does its' magic!
A relationship is born and during those artistic lessons we can slide in some side-door therapy. First you have to get their attention and art is the best vehicle I've ever seen for that. It doesn't judge you, everyone is welcome, and it embraces it's crazies and eccentrics (uh, Warhol, Van Gogh, Me!). The boys revel in acceptance of any kind and art is the great equalizer. Strong, handsome, weak, or geek...it just doesn't matter.
Keep your eye on the Etsy...I've been busy. Winding up and counting down. Five, four, Three...Ready, Set, GO!
1 comment:
I'll help you countdown, Sharon! BTW, good luck with your work. Those boys don't know how lucky they are to work with you.
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