Picture this:
A woman sits quietly at a table, hands resting near a small pile of words. You offer a gentle invitation: “choose a few that you like.” No pressure, no expectation. A minute passes. Then, slowly, she picks up one word. Then another. She places them side by side, almost like she’s setting the table for a feeling she can’t quite name yet.
And then it happens.
She looks up.
She reads the words.
And something connects.
Working with individuals living with dementia or memory loss often means rethinking what “engagement” looks like. It’s less about recall and more about presence. Less about getting it “right” and more about creating space for expression, however it shows up. That’s where word-based, low-pressure tools shine.
poemRENOVATION word block sets offer a way in. They remove the barrier of having to find the right words and instead invite participants to recognize words, choose them and arrange them into something that feels like their own. No intimidating blank page. No wrong answers. Just small moments of agency, creativity, connection and joy!
In this post, you’ll find simple, person-centered ways to use our word blocks in your memory café or care setting. Each idea is designed to meet participants where they are—and help you create those moments where a few words become something much more.
Before You Begin
- Remove the original poem cards from each word block set
- Decide if participants will keep the word blocks post-workshop
- Set the tone: relaxed, curious, judgment-free
Facilitator tips
- For best results, use with small groups or one-on-one
- Have staff/volunteers available to encourage and assist
- Use clear, simple language
- Give gentle encouragement, not correction
- Assure participants: “There’s no wrong way to do this!”
- Allow flexibility based on energy and engagement
- Silence and observation are okay
- Hold space for emotion: A range of feelings may come up — not just happy ones. That’s healthy. poemRENOVATION isn’t therapy, and your role isn’t to analyze or fix. Simply listen, acknowledge and create a space where participants feel safe to share.
- Participation can look different for everyone
- The goal is expression, not accuracy
Creation Time (typically 10 – 15 minutes)
Distribute word block sets – 1 set per participant
Remind participants:
- Go wherever your imagination takes you
- There’s no wrong way to do this
Activity Ideas:
1. Pick, Place, Pause
Invite participants to:
- Pick 3–5 words they like
- Place them in any order
- Pause and read them aloud (or have a partner read)
Facilitator Tip: No need to correct or guide—every combination is meaningful.
2. Prompt Play
Offer a simple prompt such as:
- Something you love
- A favorite place
- A feeling today
Participants use word blocks to respond.
Facilitator Tip: If someone is unsure, encourage them to start with just one word.
3. Pass-the-Poem
Start a a group poem with one word. Participants take turns contributing one word to the piece.
Read the final creation together.
Facilitator Tip: Celebrate the group creation—humor and surprise are part of the experience.
4. Word–Art Fusion
Provide simple art supplies and invite participants to create a visual piece inspired by their poemRENOVATION creation.
Facilitator Tip: Focus on expression, not outcome.
5. Emotion Check-In
Invite participants to choose a word that reflects how they feel today.
They can:
- Hold it
- Place it in front of them
- Pair it with another word
Facilitator Tip: Witness and validate—no need to interpret or analyze.
6. Memory Echoes
Participants choose a word that reminds them of something and share a memory—or simply say the word.
Facilitator Tip: One word is enough. Sharing is optional.
7. One Word, Many Ways
Give everyone the same starting word.
Invite participants to:
- Add additional words of their choice
- Share their creation if they’d like
Facilitator Tip: It’s powerful to see how one word can prompt many different expressions. Consider reading them aloud as a group.
8. Take-Home Connection
If you decide to have participants keep the word block sets, encourage them and/or caregivers to continue the experience at home by arranging words into daily creations.
Sharing & Reflection
- Invite participants to share their creation:
-
- With a partner, and/or
- With the full group
- Facilitate a supportive discussion:
- What did you enjoy most?
- What would you title your creation?
- How did the experience feel?
- Reveal the original text – pass out the original poem cards and/or read the passage aloud.
- Collect word block sets or send them home with attendees.
Thank everyone and encourage them to keep creating!
Continue the Creativity
For more resources, to purchase word block sets, or to explore the free daily digital challenge, visit poemRENOVATION.com.