Collage for Developing Cognitive Skills and Concentration

Title: «Stories in Images: Collage and Memory»

Objective: Enhance concentration, creativity, and memory through collage-making.

Participants select magazine images to create a composition representing important moments in their lives.

This activity encourages self-reflection, creativity, and the sharing of personal stories through visual expression. Participants will create a collage by selecting images from magazines that represent meaningful moments or experiences in their lives, reflecting on their past and present. It’s a wonderful way to spark conversation and build connections within the group.

• Participants will browse through magazines and select images that reflect meaningful aspects of their lives.
• Encourage them to cut out pictures, words, or phrases that represent their memories, hopes, or experiences.
• Participants will then glue these elements onto their poster boards to create their personal collages.
• Encourage creativity: Use markers or crayons to add personal details, borders, or embellishments to the collage.
• Allow participants to work at their own pace and take breaks if needed.

GOALS:

• Promote self-reflection and personal storytelling.
• Encourage creative expression and artistic exploration.
• Foster social interaction and communication among participants.

INDICATORS:

• Are participants selecting images that reflect important moments in their lives? Yes/No
• Are they sharing their stories or thoughts behind the images they’ve chosen? 0-4 scale

MATERIALS:

• Magazines with a variety of images (e.g., nature, travel, family, activities, emotions).
• Large sheets of paper or poster boards.
• Glue sticks or glue.
• Scissors (ensure they are safe and easy to handle).
• Markers, colored pencils, or crayons for additional decoration.
• Optional: Decorative items such as stickers, glitter, fabric, or photos.

TIMETABLE:

• 10 mins – Introduction & Warm-up:
  • Briefly explain the purpose of the activity: creating a visual representation of life’s important moments.
  • Discuss the concept of a collage, and show an example if possible.
  • Encourage participants to reflect on the most significant events, places, people, or feelings they associate with their life’s journey.
  • Offer prompts if needed, like:
    • “What images remind you of your childhood?”
    • “What represents a special moment in your life?”
    • “What kind of images make you feel happy?”
  • 40-50 mins – Life Collage Creation:
  • 10 mins – Reflection & Sharing:
    • After completing the collages, give participants an opportunity to share their artwork with the group, explaining the significance of the images they selected.
    • Discuss the process and how it made them feel.
    • Reflect on the diversity of life experiences within the group and how these stories bring people closer.

Adaptations for Disabilities:

• Visual Impairments: Use larger magazines with high-contrast images. Provide tactile materials such as textured paper or fabric that can be incorporated into the collage. Assist with cutting or offer pre-cut images.
• Hearing Impairments: Provide written instructions and demonstrations. Encourage communication through written or visual methods.
• Mobility Impairments: Ensure the workspace is comfortable and accessible, with supplies within easy reach. Provide seated options for participants who cannot stand or reach a table.
• Cognitive Impairments: Simplify the instructions by using clear and visual prompts. Provide one-on-one assistance to help with the selection of images and assembly of the collage.