Components of Avera Family Wellness

Suzuki Principle Violin Training

"This is a very special program for these kids. It's an opportunity not a lot of kids get to have and it really improves self-esteem." - Yuko Saito, violin instructor

The Suzuki method of learning to play music focuses on children at a very young age. Using scaled-down instrument sizes and simple standing and holding techniques, children can study music before they learn to read. Violin instructors Jay Reeve, Yuko Saito and Leah Bogue meet with small groups of children four times a week in half-hour sessions to review basic techniques while reinforcing repetition and memory - a key element in Suzuki training. "It's becoming much more evident in research that providing this type of musical training at this age could affect at-risk children," said Reeve. "In most cases, kids who study music exhibit better self-control, self-image and thinking skills." Musical goals include helping children reach developmental milestones and perform music they have learned for friends and family.

Expressive Therapies

"For a child, the worlds of pretend and real are understood instinctively, and the line is crossed at will, moment by moment, as a healthy way of learning - as a critical tool of learning, in fact." - Darrel Fickbohm, drama instructor

Expressive therapies use various areas of the arts and have been shown to enhance many aspects of child development. Avera staff and community artists engage children in a wide range of creative activities. "Different children are reached in different ways, and drama is an amazing tool with a lot of attachments," said Fickbohm. "The principles of drama mirror exactly the principles of life. We talk, laugh, move, sing and imagine our way through it together."

Mind and Body Techniques

Training children in relaxation techniques can increase their calmness, concentration, self-confidence and reduce disruptive behavior. The mind-body component combines slow, graceful movements and rhythmic patterns coordinated with breathing.

Family Coaching

A key component of the Avera Family Wellness Program is parental involvement. All families are assigned a personal health coach to help parents improve their family's health and wellness, and hone parenting skills. The process empowers parents to become aware, take charge, discover solutions, and make choices toward a more successful family life.