LaughMind: Improv Comedy Social Skills Group

Comedian Victor Borge said, “Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.”  This is the core idea behind LAUGHMIND, a SOCIAL SKILLS GROUP.  The first rule in IMPROV IS “Yes, and…”, this means whatever your scene partner’s idea is, you agree with and build upon it to make it better.  Through the magic of IMPROV, participants will play games using only their imagination. They will create elaborate worlds in which they learn to think logically, work as a team, accept the ideas of others, support one another, become abstract and flexible thinkers, build friendships, lessen their anxiety, and say “Yes, and…”—all while laughing along the way.The effects of improv are far greater than simply playing games.   A 2014 Vanderbilt University study showed that individuals with autism who participated in a two-week theater program saw their stress levels significantly decrease.  A 2012 Loyola University Chicago study found that among a diverse, youth population humor was one of the most effective strategies to cope with stress. This group will be most beneficial to high functioning teenagers with special needs who have a great sense of humor and are looking for an outlet to socialize in a semi-structured, playful environment.  No experience necessary, participants should come as they are with a curiosity and a willingness to say “Yes, and…”! Registeration is $275 for 6 classes. Only 8 spots per class. Limited availability.  Go to https://www.differentdirections.org/laugh-mind [https://www.differentdirections.org/laugh-mind] to register and find out more information!