| Therapeutic Program |Academic Program | Play | | The Physical Environment |

Program Description

Wings Learning Center (WLC) is a school specifically created to address the educational and therapeutic needs of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and disorders of relating and communicating.  The WLC program and curriculum is rich in experiences meaningful to each student, relevant to their individual learning styles and challenges, and one in which the child is the greatest source of information about program direction.

A full academic program is offered to all students at WLC.  To address adaptive and independent living skills, a functional curriculum approach is incorporated into daily classroom routines and activities.   Qualified professionals provide therapeutic services as part of the school program.  The WLC staff is a knowledgeable group, all working within their field of expertise.  Ongoing staff development, training and support distinguishes WLC as a program that is progressive by keeping current on practices and advances in the field of ASD.

Classroom curriculum at WLC is based on the California Standards, and incorporates all curriculum themes into the day’s activities, helping students have a greater understanding of what is being taught.  Experiencing activities and learning new skills that relate to one another provides a context for learning.  The strategy of providing a context through thematic teaching helps children generalize, or apply, what they have learned to new situations. 

WLC is committed to expanding and enriching its students’ educational experiences by including social opportunities with typical peers, developing collaborative and supportive relationships with parents, and creating natural learning opportunities through community experiences that are related to curriculum.

Our team of therapists work collaboratively, sharing their knowledge in an effort to address each students’ needs across all disciplines.  Each therapist consults with the educational staff in order to facilitate learning.  Care is given by therapists in addressing specific modalities, including sensory diets for those who would benefit, postural support to promote speech production, cues to facilitate speech, and perceptual aides to support learning.

Successful therapy techniques are also brought to the child’s home so learning can occur across both environments, helping to ensure generalization in both of the child’s primary learning environments. 

Disclaimer

Autism is a complex disorder. The information presented here is, of necessity, general in nature. Please consult with a qualified professional concerning your specific questions. The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors.

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