| Component |
Purpose |
| Art |
Art is an important element of a person’s week. It allows expression through both verbal and nonverbal means. It enables each person to express individuality through the choice of colors and materials. Art develops creativity, imagination, self-expression, and cooperation. All activities are structured and organized for maximum participation. |
| Bingo |
Bingo is played in a large group setting on Friday afternoons. We have a variety of different Bingo games to pick from, and winners take home prizes. |
| Computers |
Computers are utilized in the curriculum for a variety of reasons. Individuals interact with a wide range of software programs depending on their ability level. These programs develop communication skills, cause-and-effect, language, cognition, daily living skills, auditory discrimination, and a host of other abilities. Learning the ins and outs of technology fosters independence and enables the people we serve to find appropriate entertainment and discover ways to learn more about topics of interest. |
| Connections |
Connections is a component that covers a broad range of topics. Each lesson focuses on improving social interaction, expanding vocabulary, and stimulating recall, thought processes, and conversation. During Connections, individuals engage in hands-on activities such as pattern blocks, drawing, working with clay, and participating in lessons focused on tactile stimulation. Another focus is making mental connections through categorization, sorting, and identification. |
| Cooking |
Cooking teaches cooperation, following directions, task completion, cleaning skills, and various daily living skills. We focus on basic food prep skills: chopping, mixing, and measuring, as well as learning about nutrition and making healthy choices. Sampling our creations is the icing on the cake! |
| Discovery |
The purpose of Discovery is to engage individuals in a multifaceted experience centered on a specific topic. Discovery consists of a 60-minute weekly lesson, usually part of a “unit” of 3-4 sessions. Each lesson is composed of a variety of the following components:
· Sign language
· Visuals (photos, books, posters)
· Hands-on activities (matching, sequencing, sorting)
· Multi-sensory activities
· Manipulatives (puppets, specimens, etc.)
· Videos
· Poetry |
| Encore! |
Encore consists of a weekly video. Each session features a concert by a variety of artists spanning multiple genres. This is a time when everyone is encouraged to sing along! |
| Express Yourself |
Express Yourself is a weekly class that fosters self-expression. Topics are used to generate discussion, thoughts, emotions, actions, and voice and words. The focus is to build confidence in speaking, understand that everyone has a right to their opinion, know that it is okay to disagree, build stronger relationships with peers and staff, and have fun. |
| Free Art |
Free Art is another component of our art curriculum. It consists of a multitude of activities that can be done individually, depending on one’s interests. Sample activities include Learn to Draw, tracing, color-by-number, draw the other half, symmetry, stencils, and rubbing plates. |
| Games & Puzzles |
Games is a time for socialization, turn-taking, camaraderie, and following directions. It provides us with an opportunity to practice getting along in a larger setting, learning how to follow the rules, and developing good sportsmanship. Those choosing to do puzzles will work individually or in pairs to solve and interact with a variety of puzzles. Some of the activities provided include tangrams, geoboards, pattern blocks, cube puzzles, and finding the difference. The goal is to develop thinking and critical thinking skills. |
| Library |
Library consists of a weekly session devoted to a particular book. Everyone reads together and shares their experiences on a particular topic. They view photos and answer discussion questions while fostering a variety of group interaction skills. Topics include animals, nature, famous people, and historical events. |
| Listening |
Listening is comprised of various types of audio CDs. The options include a mix of artists, compilations, relaxation, international, soundtracks, and audiobooks. |
| Music |
Music is expressive. Music is creative. Music is fun! Music focuses on rhythm, movement, singing, and the playing of instruments. No matter one’s level of functioning, music can be enjoyed. We also explore specific artists and music genres. |
| Nature |
Nature consists of a weekly video that is viewed and discussed. We explore topics such as sea life, animal migration, and rainforests. We hope to broaden our awareness of nature and its incredible wonders. |
| Now Showing! |
Now Showing! is a time for viewing videos. We mix it up weekly. Sometimes it will be a Cirque Du Soleil, sometimes a comedy video (AFV or stand-up). And we also view sports bloopers and various informational/science videos, such as How It’s Made, Modern Marvels, and Food Factory. |
| Reading |
Reading is a time for storytelling. Staff members pick from a selection of books that the curriculum staff rotates. Some books are short and can be finished within the session, while others may be read over a span of weeks. |
| Reminiscing |
Reminiscing offers various activities utilizing all senses to help individuals with dementia remember events, people, and places from their past. The benefits include:
· improved cognitive function
· creating moments for individuals served and Direct Support Staff
· enhances communication
· promotes self-worth, purpose, confidence, and identity |
| Sports & exercise |
Sports & exercise encompass a wide range of fun activities designed to foster physical fitness and develop social skills. It gives us the opportunity to develop sportsmanship, friendly competition, and teamwork.
Exercise is important to everyone regardless of functioning level. Physical activity develops motor skills, coordination, balance, and awareness of spatial relationships. It also tones muscles and is vital to overall health—strengthening the heart and lungs, lowering blood pressure, and helping to maintain a healthy weight |
| Sensory |
Sensory is a time to decompress and relax. A variety of soothing equipment is turned on, including bubble tubes, effects wheels, fiber-optic strands, star lights, and ambient videos. |
| Tablets |
Tablets are utilized in the curriculum for a variety of reasons. Individuals interact with both books and applications depending on each one’s interests and ability level. They can also access the internet to learn more about topics of interest. While involved with a tablet, they are developing skills in at least one of the following areas:
· Matching
· Following directions
· Fine motor skills
· Overall communication skills
· Vocabulary development
· Cognitive and reasoning skills (puzzles, etc.)
· Patterning
· Memory
· Auditory processing |
