The “Connect & Grow” Program

1. What We Do (Program Philosophy)

The “Connect & Grow” Program is a fun, small-group class for neurodivergent kids who learn best in a calm, predictable space. We focus on four key areas so that members can feel confident and capable at home, at school, and in the community.

Key Features:

• Small Groups: Specialized instructor for focused attention.
• Sensory-Friendly: Everything is designed to prevent anxiety and sensory overload (calm lighting, quiet tools, flexible seating).
• Integrated Learning: We teach skills together. For example, reading a story helps practice social skills and clear speaking at the same time.

2. Our Four Skill Modules (The Coursework)

We rotate through these four workshops every week, ensuring skills are always reinforced.

A. The “Connect” Workshop (Social Skills)

This module teaches how to navigate social situations, express feelings, and manage conflict.

• Emotional Tools: Learning to name feelings (happy, frustrated, confused) and using sensory breaks or tools (fidgets, weighted lap pads) to calm down.
• Friendship Building: Starting a conversation, knowing when to change the subject, and reading body language and faces.
• Flexibility: Learning to compromise, handle disagreements, and adjust when plans change.

B. The “Grow” Workshop (Life Skills)

This module focuses on independence, organization, and safety.

• Organization: Planning tasks, following steps (like a recipe), and keeping track of time using visual schedules and checklists.
• Self-Care: Mastering daily routines, like dressing and hygiene, and recognizing when your body needs food or rest.
• Community Safety: Practicing how to be safe in public, understanding signs, and following simple directions in new places.

C. The “Voice” Workshop (Speech & Communication)

Taught by a communication specialist, this section improves how members express themselves.

• Clear Speaking: Practicing sounds and speaking clearly and at the right volume.
• Social Talk (Pragmatics): Knowing what to say and when, such as asking for help or waiting for your turn to speak.
• Communication Devices (AAC): Training on how to use specialized apps or picture boards for those who are non-verbal.

D. The “Read” Workshop (Literacy Skills)

This module builds strong reading skills using proven, research-based methods.

• Decoding & Fluency: Learning the sounds of letters and practicing reading out loud to become faster and more accurate.
• Understanding: Finding the main idea in a story and predicting what will happen next (which helps with social scenarios, too).
• Real-World Reading: Using everyday items like recipes, instructions, and community signs for practice.

3. The Supportive Environment

A. Our Space is a Low-Stimulus Zone

We actively control the environment to maximize focus and comfort:

• Calm Lighting: Dimmable, soft lights—never harsh fluorescent bulbs.
• Quiet Space: Sound-absorbing features and noise-canceling headphones are always available.
• Comfortable Seating: Options range from regular chairs to bean bags and wobble seats.