The Rainbow Clubhouse is a new group at The LOFT for families of young, gender expansive children up to age 12. The group features a support group for parents/guardians, and a structured play group for children.

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The Rainbow Clubhouse meets on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 1:00pm-3:00pm. The first half hour is reserved for new family orientation to meet with LOFT staff and discuss the group dynamics before returning families arrive. From 1:00pm to 1:30pm is new family orientation, then from 1:30pm to 3:00pm is group for all new and returning families. Siblings of your gender expansive child are also allowed to attend the children's play group. Infants must remain with their parents at all times.

On Sunday, May 19th, group for all families will begin at 1:30pm.

In an effort to maintain the privacy of our children and protect our families,
The LOFT has developed an intake process for new families joining this group.

This form is required in order for families to attend the group. Click here to access it.

The location of The Rainbow Clubhouse will be shared with families who complete the intake.

Group Format

The Rainbow Clubhouse is a safe-space support group for families of gender-expansive children, up to age 12, and will feature two side-by-side groups.

• Playgroup for youth up to age 12:
  • The Playgroup is a safe social space for children to play, interact with peers and be themselves. Discussions within the playgroup are not solely focused on topics such as gender, feelings or bullying. Instead, playgroup participants are given the safe environment to develop friendships through common playtime activities.
  • The Playgroup is overseen by a professional with 20+ years of childcare experience, and an additional, experienced adult.
• Parent/Guardian group:
  • The Parent/Guardian group features a unique opportunity for families to gain support and connection to others with similar experiences. Some topics that may be discussed in this group include: talking to extended family, navigating school systems, and finding affirming professionals/resources.
  • The Parent/Guardian group is facilitated by a LOFT staff member with experience working with families of trans youth. Meetings may also feature guest speakers and reading lists of gender-affirming books for adults & youth.

Definitions

Gender-Expansive can be defined as: An adjective used to describe people that identify or express themselves in ways that broaden the culturally defined behavior or expression associated with one gender. -According to Welcoming Schools: A program of the Human Rights Campaign

The meeting space is a nut-free facility.

Participation in this group is free, donations are welcome. 

If you have questions about The Rainbow Clubhouse before you want to start the intake process contact The LOFT Helpline at (914) 948-2932 x13 or [email protected]