My Time My Way Facilitator Guide My Time My Way
Facilitator Training Guide: 4-Hour Intensive
Total Duration
240 Minutes
Learning Objectives
Identify personal interests and "spark" activities.
Develop a "Reset Strategy" for past negative experiences.
Master social scripts and digital safety for club navigation.
Create a problem-solving "Shield" and a 7-day launch plan.
Materials Needed
"My Time My Way" 8-Page Workbook
Expanded 20-Slide Presentation
Device for Research Lab session
Master Schedule (240 Minutes)
Time Module & Topic Workbook Ref 0:00 - 0:35 Module 1: Discovery & Sparks Page 2: Interest Wheel 0:35 - 1:00 Module 2: Resetting the Past Group Discussion (Slides 4) 1:00 - 1:35 Module 3: The Research Lab Page 3: Discovery Lab 1:35 - 1:50 Refresh Break (15 min) Stretch & Water 1:50 - 2:25 Module 4: Social Scripts & Practice Page 4: Practicing My Ask 2:25 - 2:50 Module 5: Self-Advocacy Power Page 5: Speaking Up 2:50 - 3:20 Module 6: Navigation & Problem Solving Page 6: "What If" Shield 3:20 - 3:45 Module 7: Digital Safety & Buddy System Page 7: Staying Safe 3:45 - 4:00 Module 8: Launch & Graduation Page 8: 7-Day Plan
Instructional Breakdown
1:50 - 2:25
Module 4: Social Scripts & Practice
Key Script
"The first step to joining is asking! We're going to practice exactly what to say so you feel like a pro when you call or email your favorite club from the Research Lab."
Activity: Use Workbook Page 4. Conduct three role-play scenarios: one for each club found. Focus on voice volume, clear speech, and listening for the leader's answer.
3:20 - 3:45
Module 7: Digital Safety & The Buddy System
Teaching Point:
"Many clubs use Facebook or group chats to share info. These are great, but we have to keep our 'Safety Shield' up online. We also never do this alone—who is your Buddy who can help you check your messages?"
Activity: Complete Workbook Page 7. Discuss 'Red Flags' (messages from strangers, asking for money, or asking for your home address).
3:45 - 4:00
Module 8: The Big Launch
Commitment time. Review the 7-day plan on Page 8. Ensure the learner leaves with a physical date and time marked on their calendar or phone.
"You've done the hard work today. You have a plan and you have the skills. Sign your Certificate of Spark—you're a graduate!"
Substitute Guide Notes
Social Mastery
If the learner is anxious about role-play, use puppets or 'talking figures' to model the script first. Slow the pace down and prioritize confidence over accuracy .
Extended Discussion
If you have extra time, browse the social media pages of the clubs found. Look at photos of past events to help the learner visualize themselves being part of the group.
My Time My Way Workbook Intensive My Time
My Way
4-Hour Club Intensive
My Name
Today's Date
"I am the designer of my own fun!"
1
Discover Your Spark
Fill each slice of the wheel with words, colors, or drawings of things you love doing.
SPARK
My Top 3 Activities:
2
The Discovery Lab
Use the tablet or computer to find 3 real clubs in your area.
Option #1
Club Name
Day & Time
Option #2
Club Name
Day & Time
Option #3
Club Name
Day & Time
3
Practicing My Ask
"Hi! My name is . I'm interested in the . Is it okay for new people to join?"
Important Info I Heard:
Who to speak to when I arrive:
What I need to bring:
😊
Ready
😐
Nervous
4
Speaking Up
Self-advocacy is telling people what you need to be successful.
Sensory
"It is a bit too loud/bright for me. Can I move?"
When would I say this?
Learning
"Can you show me that step again, please?"
When would I say this?
Physical
"I need to take a 5-minute break. Is that okay?"
When would I say this?
5
The "What If" Shield
What if I'm late?
Write your plan below:
What if I feel lost?
Write your plan below:
What if I don't like it?
Write your plan below:
6
Staying Safe & Social
My Buddy
Who can I bring or call for support?
Small Talk
What is 1 question I can ask someone?
My Digital Safety Check
I will only talk about club activities in the chat.
I will NOT share my home address online.
I will tell my buddy if a message feels strange.
7
My 7-Day Plan
The Launchpad:
1
My #1 Choice Club
2
When I will call/email
3
My first meeting date
Certificate of Spark
I am ready to find my spark and join the fun!
My Time My Way Slides Expanded My Time My Way
The 4-Hour Club Intensive Workshop
Today's Roadmap
1
Discover Your Spark
2
The Research Lab
3
The Social Toolkit
4
The "What If" Shield
5
Digital Safety Skills
6
Launch Your Plan
Finding Your Spark
"A spark is something that makes you feel excited. It's how you want to spend your best hours."
Workbook Page 2
Art
Nature
Music
The Fresh Start
"A bad experience in the past is just a lesson. You get to decide when to try again, and YOU are in control this time!"
Validate
It's okay to feel nervous about starting over.
Empower
You can leave any club that doesn't feel right.
Research Lab
Search Keywords:
• "[My City] Art Class"
• "Inclusive Sports League"
• "Community Volunteering"
• "Library Hobby Events"
Let's find 3 real options right now!
Break Time
15 Minutes to Reset & Refresh
The Social Script
"Having a script means you never have to guess what to say."
"Hi, I'm interested in the pottery class. Is it okay for new people to join this week?"
Role Play Time
Reading Workbook Page 4
Magic Phrases
"It's a bit loud. Can I move seats?"
"Can you show me that step again?"
"I need a 5-minute break, please."
Advocacy is a Superpower!
Real-World Advocacy
"You are the only person with a disability at the club today. You feel like people are looking at you."
The Mindset
"Smile, say 'Hi,' and focus on the activity. You have every right to be in this room!"
"Being unique is not a reason to feel out of place."
The "Watch & Wait" Strategy
"On your first day, you don't have to jump right in. You can be an observer!"
• Find a seat near the edge.
• Watch how others do the activity.
• Listen to the club's "insider" jokes.
The Problem-Solving Shield