Kudos

Occasionally, on this blog, I want to recognize school districts, communities, and other institutions/programs that have developed programs for children with special needs.

Today I give Kudos to the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan, which has developed amazing opportunities for children with special needs and their families. From special educational classes with no more than 5 students to an instructor, to a hydraulic lift in their pool, to support groups for all family members - this seems like a truly enriched and progressive center. The center offers swim and karate for children with special needs, plus creative classes and a program called "Boost!" which looks like it should be copied in every public and private school in every district everywhere.

Boost! will provide highly structured programming for children with autism spectrum disorder. Each class is comprised of a series of activities designed to develop critical social and day-to-day living skills, and provide remediation in common skill deficits. Structured classes offer sequenced activities and visual support materials to teach independent living, personal safety and safety within the community, leisure and recreational skills, self-care, and communication skills that can lead to greater self-sufficiency. Typical peers serve as “buddies” facilitating participation and serving as same-age models. Class activities and thematic units are designed to be fun for the children and the high level of support and carefully designed structure ensures success. Interested families should contact Jenifer Clark, director of Boost! at clarkjenif@aol.com.

(Larger and bold font was added by me, for emphasis.)

What an amazing program! Kudos to the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan! I challenge our community and school district to offer even one program geared towards our many students with special needs. Does anyone know of ANY programs anywhere in the Matawan/Aberdeen area that are offered specifically to children with special needs?