Spring has sprung, and lots of exciting things are happening on KidsTLC’s campus! Most days you can find children racing to the playground, enjoying a game of hoops or creating artwork with sidewalk chalk. In a nutshell: our kids love playing outside!
Children residing on KidsTLC’s campus often have had extremely traumatic experiences including physical or sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence or unstable living conditions. Sadly, children who have such experiences are much more likely to struggle with anxiety, depression, self-harm, anger and other behavioral challenges.
We know that the connections formed between our staff and the children we serve while playing outside is critical to the healing process. Studies have shown that children who are regularly exposed to the outdoors think more clearly, cope more effectively with stress and better endure painful life experiences. Children who are able to think more clearly are also more likely to seek out healthy activities or resources that will make them more resilient in stressful situations.
Additionally, children who have experienced complex trauma often struggle with their confidence and self-worth, believing they “deserve” the tragic things that have happened to them. Playing, especially outdoors, helps children to relax, connect with others and begin to build confidence as they participate in individual and group activities.
So, why do I share all of this with you? WE NEED YOUR HELP with a special project! KidsTLC recently purchased a property adjacent to our existing campus, allowing us to expand our residential treatment program by 50 beds for children who have endured a long wait-list for services. With this property also came several outdoor green spaces that have the potential to be perfect areas for children to experience the healing benefits of being outdoors.
Please consider making a 100% tax-deductible donation to KidsTLC to help beautify and create therapeutic green spaces on our campus. Your generosity will make it possible for children to take full advantage of the expanded outdoor space by providing private, colorful and functional areas where they can run, play, enjoy meals and experience healing in the sunshine. Your gift will not only provide hope for children currently living on our campus, but for generations of children to come. Thank you for being a part of our healing community!