About the Teacher
A Chicago native, Joy Thomas holds teaching credentials in both Illinois and California. With a Master’s degree in Teaching, Joy has endorsements in Social Sciences, Language Arts and Spanish. She taught English at the middle school level for 5 years in Illinois and has also been a Spanish and reading tutor. She has scored writing and readings exams for Pearson Education and has helped write curriculum. She created and ran an after school program for elementary kids in Illinois for four years prior to moving to Orange County. She currently homeschools her 2 daughters, Lucy age 10 and Elliana age 6. Joy is a published author who is passionate about writing and loves inspiring children of all ages in their creativity. She also happens to be visually impaired and is a strong advocate in the blind community, along with her amazing guide dog, Roja. Together, they have spoken at schools and special events throughout the U.S.
Class Testimonials
“Miss Joy's class is a unique and fun class that is a wonderful introduction to the world of guide dogs and their handlers. Both my girls (ages 3 and 9) learned so much, and particularly enjoyed all the hands-on simulation exercises and interaction with Miss Joy's guide dog, Roja. They also had fun developing their sensory words and awareness through games. My girls were so sad when the class was over and would love to do more!” Ceri D.
“Thank you so much for sharing your life and this class with these kids. It has been such a gift to get to know you and your sweet girls and Roja :). Both my 8-year-old daughter and I have gained so much from your personal experiences and all of the hands on ways you have taught about service dogs and handlers.” Rachel D.
“Thank You to you for your classes! Both my 8-year-old daughter and I learned so much! That was such a unique opportunity for us to learn about guide dogs and how visionally impaired people like you are having such a wonderful life.” Yennie E.
"We have not only had so much fun at Joy's service dog classes, but we have left full of knowledge that we had no clue about before! To learn about service dogs, the blind, and how the two help one another has been hugely beneficial to our family. The classes are not just informative, but also a lot of fun! Both Joy and Roja are incredibly sweet and patient, and my 6-year-old daughter was very sad that it was her last class with them. Thank you both for teaching us so much!" Ladan R.
"We traveled a little over an hour to attend Joy’s guide dog class. At the end of the four weeks my 9-year-old son, who often isn’t a fan of long car rides, begged me to be able to attend more classes with Joy and Roja. My son has a learning disability and Joy went out of her way to accommodate and include him in everything she was doing. He did not feel out of place at all during her classes, which is rare. I imagine that Joy's class will be one of my son's fondest memories of his school years. Thank you, Joy and Roja!” Courtney R.
Family Guide Dog and Puppy in Training Workshop
All ages / $50 per family including parent(s)
Have your kids ever passed a guide dog and wondered how the furry helper does its job? How does a guide dog know where to go? And do guide dogs ever get time off to just play? Have you ever wanted to explain to your child the way to act around a working dog but were confused about proper etiquette? Children and parents are invited to learn about guide dogs and interact with one first-hand. The workshop will begin with a visit from a puppy in training. After learning all about the puppy from its raisers, we will introduce a “graduated”, active guide dog, Roja. Families will learn the basics of guide dog etiquette, guiding commands, and how these incredible animals are trained with food and positive rewards. In addition to guidework demonstrations, we will do a guide team simulation exercise. Book talk recommendations will be given at the end for any families wishing to supplement further learning at home.
Upcoming dates (in Aliso Viejo, CA):
- Thursday, January 12, 1:00-3:30pm
- Friday, March 3, 1:00-3:30pm
- Friday, April 21, 1:00-3:30pm
Sensory Details Writers Workshop
Ages 9-13 (drop-off class) / $60 per student
Limited to 8 students total
Through guide-dog themed writing exercises, we will explore the 5 senses and the importance of including sensory details in writing. Throughout the day, we will be working on a “I Will Never Forget That Dog” poetry project that will hone word choice, observation skills, and sensory awareness. This class is designed for students who love animals and writing.
No Upcoming Dates, but if interested fill out registration form to inquire about setting up a private date or email joyellenthomas@gmail.co
All About Guide Dogs & Training
Ages 9-13 drop-off class / $50 per student
Limited to 8 students total
For the dog-enthusiast who really just wants to learn the detailed, step-by-step ways a handler works on skills with their dog. This interactive class allows students to help with training techniques in actual public settings, such as cafes, so student’s ability to follow directions and act appropriately in public is important. Previous experience volunteering with animals is helpful for this class.
Upcoming Dates (in Aliso Viejo, CA)
- Friday May 12th 2017 10:00am-2:00pm
Preschool and Pups
Ages 3-5 with parent / 1 hr. for 8 weeks / $80.
Come read to Roja! “Mommy and Me” literacy class centered around books about service dogs. Each parent and child will be given a book to take home and practice and will take turns reading to Roja weekly. Miss Joy will plan activities to go with each story.
No Upcoming Dates, but if interested fill out registration form to inquire about setting up a private date or email joyellenthomas@gmail.com