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Silver Award: Hands On Harmony
Today, there are 1 in 9 children in the United States diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). About 1 in 31 children have autism spectrum syndrome (ASD), a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, learns, and behaves. Both populations struggle with hyperactivity, lack of focus, and sensory issues.
As someone who has experienced ADHD, Girl Scout Cadette Alyvia from Troop 256 in Norfolk decided to take action to help others who, like her, struggled at times. Her Girl Scout Silver Award project, “Hands On Harmony”, addressed some of the challenges children go through by educating those who work with children at schools and in the community.
As part of her project, she created sensory boxes filled with sensory toys and items that can help calm children down and focus their attention on other things during a time of need.
“Overstimulation can make children shut down when their senses are overloaded and will make them want quiet,” said Alyvia. “This can affect a child's ability to focus on their learning. Through my project, I wanted to supply them with resources when this happens and help make their learning environment more accommodating.”
To help educate the community about ADHD and ways to support children with the diagnoses, Alyvia attended open houses at local schools and was able to show the importance of using sensory boxes like the ones she made. She also created 100 boxes and partnered with Envision Family Services, a private behavioral and mental health agency, to ensure the boxes went to good use. She also made a video for Envision Family Services that could be shared with their clients. The agency is committed to sustaining the project by distributing the boxes and replenishing them as needed.
Great job, Alyvia!
