On October 10, the BRAINBOW bracelet-making workshop brought together 13 participants for an afternoon of creativity and connection. Co-facilitated by the Smithers Community Services Association (SCSA) and hosted by EdGE Learning Centre, the workshop offered a warm, welcoming environment for parents and children of varying ages and abilities. SCSA provided a spread of healthy refreshments, including fruit, cheese, crackers, and muffins, setting the stage for an enjoyable event.
The workshop began with a reflection exercise, where participants were invited to draw or write something that makes them feel happy. These reflections inspired the mantras for their bracelets. After a brief overview of how mantra bracelets can serve as a grounding tool, the group received instructions on creating their designs, with a variety of options of bead colour, size, and pattern. Each participant made two bracelets, crafting mantras including “Fish on” (a nod to the joy of fishing), “Good enough,” “Creative,” “Aloha,” and “Held by land.”
Beyond the bracelet-making, the workshop provided a valuable opportunity for connections within and among families. One personal highlight was giving a high-five to a youth who recently received an autism diagnosis saying, “Welcome to the club.” This moment felt significant, emphasizing the importance of shifting attitudes around neurodevelopmental differences and embracing them. The event also sparked conversations about future community activities, with ideas for potential collaborations between BRAINBOW and SCSA to create more family-centered events that combine creativity, mindfulness, and foster stronger community connections. Participants left with a tangible reminder – their mantra bracelets – of something that makes them feel grounded and joyful, carrying that sense of calm and connection beyond the workshop.
