Honeycomb House: Transforming Youth Engagement

Curtis speaks with Stephanie Kuhn about the Medicine Hat Public Library’s Honeycomb House, a free, supervised teen space for ages 13-19. Stephanie explains how a $3,000 Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta grant funded sensory-friendly updates, what teens can do there, and how the space helps young people find calm, connection, and friendship. Chapters 00:00 A free teen space at the library, plus the grant announcement 02:51 Art, sensory play, peer support, and movie nights 04:35 Why a supervised drop-in matters after school 06:09 Weekend access and other youth spaces in town 07:43 How sensory-friendly updates grew from teen feedback 09:11 Occupational therapy training shapes the space 10:37 Fidgets, weighted items, and noise-cancelling headphones 12:11 Connecting the library space with school regulation rooms 14:31 Honeycomb House open house details 16:40 Three teens find friendship before starting high school In today’s conversation, we explore the role of community spaces in engaging teens and providing a safe haven after school. Stephanie shares exciting updates about the Honeycomb House, the teen-exclusive space at the public library, which has recently received a $3,000 grant to enhance its offerings. What is the Honeycomb House? The Honeycomb House is designed for teens aged 13 to 19, open six days a week, and offers a variety of activities. From video games to crafts, this space is about more than just hanging out; it’s about creating connections and fostering a sense of community. Programs and Activities Stephanie highlights several engaging programs: - Doodle Den: An art-based session led by a talented staff artist. - Sensory Fun: A hands-on experience with sensory toys like kinetic sand and play-doh. - Unity Circle: A positive peer support group that encourages connection. - Novelty Theatre: Weekly film showings that invite teens to relax and enjoy together. Why Community Spaces Matter As the conversation unfolds, both Stephanie emphasizes the importance of having a safe, welcoming space for teens, especially in the wake of the closure of other community centres. The Honeycomb House serves as a crucial refuge where youth can engage positively, meet new friends, and participate in meaningful activities. Stephanie's enthusiasm is infectious as she recounts how many teens come in after school, enjoy free snacks provided by Save On Foods, and participate in various programs designed just for them. Honeycomb House isn’t just a place to hang out; it’s a community hub that fosters growth, learning, and connection among teens. Join the Celebration! With the grant funding, an open house celebration is on the horizon. It’s a great opportunity for the community to see the new updates and make the most of the resources available in their library. The celebration is on November 12th from 4:00 to 5:00. Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show