Success
Bridges Learning Center has more success stories than can be counted. There are daily achievements that shock parents, teachers, therapists, and even the students. One success story that is very significant to parents and teachers involves a boy at the age of six. After working on a particular objective of his annual treatment plan that focused on his verbalizations, Bridges staff has lead this child to master his objective of spontaneously saying at least 10 words per day at school. Not only has this child accomplished his goal, he has exceeded his spontaneously said words by approximately 10 words daily. This child, with the skills, confidence and persistence was able to bridge yet another gap in the communication struggles of children with autism.
One can realize the amount of accomplishments made by the students is truly immeasurable. One student was in pull-ups when he first arrived, and now he is completely potty-trained. In just a few short weeks, one of our newer students has been feeding herself with a spoon or fork, when formerly she just used her hands and played in her food. Two of our school-aged boys have learned to tie their shoes. A formerly non-verbal child now communicates with words. To add to the list, several of our students have been mainstreamed – the overall goal for all students who attend Bridges. Again, these are just a few highlights, and each child continues to make progress daily.
Bridges provides students with a comprehensive therapeutic program in a real school environment that enhances their life experiences and nurtures their talents. Our enrichment program reflects mainstream private school offerings in science, art, music and movement, gym and technology. We provide the related services of speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy and counseling as appropriate. We have partnered with these service providers in order to provide a complete treatment model for autism. The curriculum incorporates academics, social skills training, animal therapy, music therapy sensory integration and behavior modification.
There is converging evidence that our therapies, which include ABA have been an effective intervention for many children with autistic spectrum disorders.
The results indicated that ABA has been effective in skill retention of developmental goals, such as independence, skills development and maintenance, and interaction. There continues to be a consensus over the effectiveness of the strategies adopted, the positive impact upon independence, family life, and the self-image of the parents.
The outcomes of the use of ABA continue to be perceived positively in terms of facilitating the development of the children and in enhancing parental feelings of confidence and empowerment.
Bridges is a cooperative community of children, parents, and teachers that fosters a love of learning in an atmosphere of challenge, inquiry, and respect.
Abiding Values
- Educational practice is guided by knowledge of how children learn.
- Our approach is child-centered and developmentally appropriate.
- Teaching and learning are interactive processes emphasizing inquiry and exploration.
- Active involvement of parents is fundamental to successful education.
- Our community encourages respect of self and others.
- We value diversity and seek students of all racial, cultural, religious and economic backgrounds.
- Bridges Learning Center is open to change, growth and new ideas.
