Thursday, July 11, 2013

Feel The Beat with autism movement therapy!

Get ready to move!  Ontario ARC is very proud to introduce another one of our great and innovative program!

Feel the Beat is our autism movement therapy program launching on July 23.  This new program promotes cognitive thinking, speech and language skills, academics and positive behavior.

Designed for individuals on the autism spectrum, Feel the Beat is expanded to include everyone regardless of diagnosis.  It gives people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to express themselves through movement and dance. 

Late summer sessions are now open for registration and will fill up fast!  Visit us online and learn how you can be a part of the area's only autism movement therapy program!  Looking to speak with someone about Feel the Beat?  Contact Diane Van Derwater, our clinical services manager, at 585-919-2148 or via email

If you want to get the latest on Ontario ARC and be the first to know about our new and innovative programs, sign up today to receive e-news from us.  We will never sell your information to a third party and you can unsubscribe at any time.  Promise!

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Camp has kicked off!

Maddyn DeSain flashes a smile to her mother before boarding the bus to 4-H Camp Bristol Hills.
June has gone by fast and July is moving at even quicker pace.  But the campers at 4-H Camp Bristol Hills barely seem to notice!  Ontario ARC's program which collaborates with the Canandaigua camp has given more than 75 campers over the past three years the opportunity to attend a summer camp program.  For many of these children, it is the first time they can attend camp. 

Errina McCarthy and a fellow camper do "trust falls."
And boy, do they enjoy it!  Campers go swimming in the pool, catch fish in the camp's pond and participate in activities like geocaching, arts & crafts and archery.  Through the camp, they build new friendships and create memories that last a lifetime.  It's awesome to see so many children "unplugged" and enjoying the great outdoors in this techie world!

Not only does this collaboration scream "FUN," campers improve their social and physical skills in a relaxed environment -- without even realizing it. 

Trained Ontario ARC staff are always on-site -- including a special education teacher, recreation assistants and an occupational therapist specializing in autism.  In addition, 4-H Camp staff receive training on autism spectrum disorders.  4-H Camp Bristol Hills and their staff have been so warm and welcoming, the transition for the children from Ontario ARC is seamless.  Much thanks to Tim Davis, the camp's program leader, for everything he has done to make this partnership a success!

Looking for more information about Ontario ARC & 4-H Camp Bristol Hills?  Contact Diane Van Derwater, our clinical services manager, at 585-919-2148 or via email.  She'll give you the scoop.