Kids on the Block is a troupe of life-sized puppets who educate children, youth, parents, teachers and the community about disabilities, abilities and inclusion. The "Kids" are brought to life by trained volunteer puppeteers. A variety of scripts are used in a performance to describe disabilities and abilities.
Kids on the Block is ...
- geared to children up to the age of 12, with all ages including adults, enjoying the shows and developing awareness.
- performed by a group of dedicated and trained volunteer puppeteers that bring the “kids” to life.
- linked to Ability Connections, a group of youth with disabilities who increase awareness through public speaking.
- linked to a variety of resources, available upon request.
Access to Service
Kids on the Block is available to daycares, schools, sporting groups and community organizations in London, Middlesex, Oxford and Elgin, and by special arrangement, in communities beyond. To arrange a performance, please contact:
Sindy.DeBenedictis [at] tvcc.on.ca (subject: Kids%20on%20the%20Block) (Ability Awareness Coordinator)
519.685.8700 ext 53706
What to Expect
A Kids on the Block performance is...
- available to daycares, schools, sporting groups and community organizations in London, Middlesex, Oxford and Elgin, and by special arrangement, in communities beyond.
- 2-3 scripts chosen from a list of 12 topics on ability awareness and the grade level of your group.
- customized from 30 to 60 minutes in length and includes audience participation through questions and comments.
- supported by donations to Thames Valley Children's Centre through our partners at Children's Health Foundation.
Performance Topics
| Topic | Appropriate for Grades |
| ADHD | 2 - 6 |
| Autism | 2 - 6 |
| Cerebral Palsy | JK - 6 |
| Down Syndrome | 2 - 6 |
| Epilepsy | 2 - 6 |
| Feelings Are Important | JK - 6 |
| Hemophilia | 2 - 6 |
| Learning Disability | JK - 6 |
| Muscular Dystrophy | 2 - 6 |
| Self Esteem | 2 - 6 |
| Spina Bifida | JK - 6 |
| Teasing, Bullying & School Safety | 2 - 6 |
If you are unsure which topic would best suit your group, please contact us to discuss your needs!
Audience testimonials:
“The script nailed it … How it has been for me living with a disability for all my life.”
“Thank you for teaching us about differences and to respect each other.”
“Remember we are all the same inside.”
For More Information ...
Please contact:
sindy.debenedictis [at] tvcc.on.ca (Ability Awareness Coordinator)
519.685.8700 ext 53706
To become a volunteer puppeteer, please contact:
amanda.giorgini [at] tvcc.on.ca (Volunteer Services)
519.685.8700 ext 53452
To make a donation, please contact:
Children's Health Foundation or 519.432.8062
Specify that you wish to direct your support Thames Valley Children's Centre | Kids on the Block.
Donations to Kids on the Block help cover the cost of puppets, props, traveling, volunteer training, program coordination and subsidies.
Thank you for considering a contribution at our performance.
The Thames Valley Children's Centre troupe is an affiliate and limited licensee of The Kids on the Block Incorporated, Columbia, Maryland, USA.
The Kids on the Block, Inc. All puppets and program materials are protected by United States and other copyright laws. Unauthorized use is prohibited. All Rights Reserved.
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