Despite the chill in the air, it feels like winter is finally behind us. The S.T.A.R. crew was thrilled to welcome families back to in-person, indoor programming, such as S.T.A.R.s on Ice and S.T.A.R. Chopped. What a joy it was to see the joy and accomplishment of children gaining confidence and skills on the ice and the pride of creating a meal.
We had such fun on the ice! It was a joy to watch everyone. Each and every child made progress in terms of confidence, independence and skating skills. I am so proud of everyone!
Although we weren’t able to share a communal meal during Chopped, children loved to bring home their culinary creations to share with their families. Children made contributions to their family meals and practiced verbal skills and recall, when telling folks at home about what they made and how. Such talented chefs we have in this group!
Although the weather doesn’t feel like it, spring has sprung and so has our S.T.A.R. spring programming! During the next few months, we will offer our Saturday play group, Crossfit, Learn to Swim at the pool, as well as some sensory art and pop-up programs. Programs currently open for registration are as follows:
Cross-Fit
Join S.T.A.R. parent and staff member, Mandy Mason, in some active fun at the Nantucket Cycling Studio! Get your sweat on! This program places emphasis on social skills while working together on fine/gross motor development through movement, games and obstacle courses. Have fun while being active, gain confidence and enjoy time with friends!
When: Wednesdays, 4-4:50pm. April 6, 13, 27, May 4, 11 and 18.
Where: Nantucket Cycling and Fitness. 25 Youngs Way
Cost: $65 per participant (covers six week session)
Saturdays with S.T.A.R.
This is a developmentally rich play group hosted by Nantucket STAR in Partnership with Nantucket Community School. We will be meeting at 56 Center Street.
When: Saturdays, 9am-10am @ 56 center Street, Nantucket Community School
Sunday, April 10th 4-6pm at the Nantucket Dreamland
I am hopeful that this program will become an ongoing one, offered throughout the year!
Keep an eye out for upcoming information-
Learn to Swim (spring session)
I am thrilled to be getting our crew back in the pool! I am waiting for a confirmation on our start date from the pool director, but can confirm that swim will run on Saturday mornings from 9-10. Information will be sent regarding registration as soon as the start date is confirmed.
Sensory Art-
I am currently coordinating art class dates with instructors and will send information for spring art as soon as details are confirmed.
Respite Night-
Once staffing is confirmed, we will be offering a respite night during April. Stay tuned for dates and times.
Summer programming-
We are currently finalizing summer activities, including adaptive water sports, learn to swim, adventure pods and pop-up programs (which will be more of a one-time event). Camp will run this summer, but may possibly only run half days. I am looking at staffing options to ensure our STARS will have access to engaging and supportive programming throughout the summer. I anticipate having dates and times finalized in April.
In other news, the board and I had a wonderful planning retreat with Kat King, of King Inclusion, this past weekend. Kat guided us through mindfully planned activities and discussions, allowing us to reflect on S.T.A.R., where it has been and where we are going. I think I can speak for all who attended by saying we feel refreshed and excited about the new ideas for programming and outreach, while maintaining our existing programming. We are also very proud of S.T.A.R.’s work over the past 19 years and thrilled to continue to serve individuals and families with diverse needs, strengths and abilities. We worked to craft a new mission statement that we feel more concisely depicts our passion to serve. I am proud to share it with you here:
Sports & Therapeutic Accessible Recreation
Our mission is to offer inclusive recreational opportunities that support and celebrate diverse strengths and abilities through collaboration with families and community partnerships.
S.T.A.R. is always looking for ways to reach individuals and families that would benefit from our programs and resources. If you know of anyone who may benefit, please send them my way. On the same thought, I am looking for someone to help translate some program materials into Portuguese- if anyone has any leads, please let me know.
Save the Date!
S.T.A.R. is hosting our annual Gala, Saturday, May 7th from 6-9 at the Chicken Box. This year’s focus is FUN and GAMES! While we will be raising funds to support our programming, we want to celebrate community and collaboration by a good, old fashioned game night. We all deserve some fun after the challenges of the past two years! Let’s kick off the summer season together with music, food, games and fun! Tickets can be purchased in advance for $25 or for $30 at the door. Looking forward to seeing you there!
As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns.
