I have a Girl Scout C.A.R.E Squad (clowning around reaches everyone) of 8 6th & 7th grade clowns. They have been clowning at nursing homes/independant living homes for the past 2 years, but we have gone in with a specific program of 30 minutes of skits. I now want to start them on walk around clowning in these environments. I am thinking about a kazoo band and am looking for other ideas. I think the "nose transplant" w/pix and dancing is a good idea - any others ?? All ideas are appreciated and absorbed

Well good for you Cuddles.

What a great mission. We have a young 13 yr old that works in once in a while and she is just terrific. I believe her experience will stay with her the rest of her life and she will inspire others.

As far as ideas are concerned:

Don't rule out singing...learn some silly songs. See the website..MRRAINBOWTHECLOWN.COM

Can do duets or ensembles.

Dave Bartlett sells some booklets with silly songs but I suggest having the kids write their own. They will have fun and take ownership. As with Dave, they can put the words to familiar songs. He uses the alphabet song a lot.

Richard Snowberg, a premier caring clown, has written books on clown routines. Adapt them to your size group. You can reach him the the Clown Camp Website at Lacrosse Wisconsin.

Puppets come with pre taped routines to learn, or to lip sink along with the tape.

How about getting a book on oragami and have learn together classes. Then the group can help each other learn new objects each week. It allows you to leave something cool for the patient and many are simple quick to do . Have them make up stories to go with the object.

Also, we found a basic class in "improv" was very helpful for partners to learn how to build something on the spur of the moment and have it cusomized to the patient/resident.

Keep us informed of your progress and successes.

Arne Swensen
Dr. Laffngiggl