After-School Program Is All Work And Play

When it comes to after-school programs, young students with autism are usually left in the dust.  Your typical program doesn't have the resources or the "know how" for children who need extra support.  We serve a bevy of children diagnosed on the autism spectrum...so when their parents ask for a program, we listen.

This past fall, we began offering an After-School Program through The Autism Center.  Among its many, original offerings:

• Staff specifically trained in working with children who have an autism diagnosis
• Homework assistance provided by a NYS-certified special education teacher
• Opportunities for outdoor, recreational fun
• Access to iPads, computers and SMART Board
• Support from Ontario ARC's clinical team
• Activities centered around building social and communication skills

Of course, one of its most popular and unique offerings is the Tales to Tails component.  Every Wednesday, Albert, our registered therapy dog, visits the After-School Program and listens closely to each child as they practice reading out loud.  While the children enjoy Albert's presence, they are also building fluency, comprehension and their self-esteem.  Albert is one of the biggest motivators for improving literacy and social skills.

And even as the school year winds down, it isn't too early to be thinking about fall 2014.  Summer will be here and gone before you know it.

Learn how you can sign your child up for The Autism Center's After-School Program!  Contact Diane VanDerwater at 585-919-2148 or JoEllen Meath at 585-919-2118.