SATURDAY  

KIDZ TIME          
Specifically designed creative music, movement, art and games provide fun and basic life skills for children aged 4-12 on the autism spectrum.  SPARC professionals, trained in interventions for ASDs, assist children at their level of readiness in developing targeted skills through sequential steps.  Each child is guided to practice communication and self-expression, social awareness and interaction, expressive and receptive language skills.  In a positive, flexible environment, our goals include: reducing frustration, increasing attention and focus, listening skills, taking turns, dealing with winning and losing, alternatives to aggressive responses, making accomplishments and self-esteem.  Children, who have not been able to sustain group involvement or find play a time for fun, typically have a successful experience at SPARC.   For children who benefit from parent or sibling participation, they are encouraged to join the fun.  Parents may appreciate respite time during program, while others relax in our waiting area to network and find support with other parents and siblings. (See SIBS TIME, below, for brothers and sisters aged 5-12.)
                Place:                      Pace University, Pleasantville Campus
                Time:                      10:30 – 12:30 pm
                Cost:                       $ 300 for 12 weeks, $ 600 full year
                Start Dates:             Fall:        10/3/09
                                               Spring:    2/27/10
                                               Summer: 6/19/10 for 6 weeks, 10:30-12:00 pm, Cost: $160

SIBS TIME
Siblings of children on the autism spectrum experience many of their own emotions and challenges that need to be supported.  Providing the typical sibling with appropriate information about autism, opportunities for self-expression, reassurance, and skills for interacting with their brother or sister with autism, can make a big difference in the child’s ability to cope and thrive.  SIBS TIME is a place to play and learn with other children living with similar concerns.  During our 1st period, brothers and sisters, typical and with ASD, join together with SPARC Specialists, learning activities that are appealing and successful to all, with support for sibling interaction.  Next, the SPARC Specialist engages typical “sibs” in their own goal-oriented activities which may include dramatic role play, games, art and discussions.  They explore such topics as: forming a relationship with their sibling, better understanding ASDs, coping strategies, being a target of sibling aggressive behavior, dealing with stress, and using SIBS TIME as a special place to share their own talents and “shine.”  Friendships developed in SIBS TIME often extend beyond the time of the structured program and become a network of support, new playmates and shared family resources.  These gains build personal insight, strengthen ties between siblings and address a myriad of needs within families.
                Place:                      Pace University, Pleasantville Campus
                Time:                      10:30 – 12:30 pm
                Cost:                       $ 300 for 12 weeks, $ 600 full year
                Start Dates:             Fall:    10/3/09
                                               Spring: 2/2710

MAKING STRIDES                            
Adapted horseback riding gives participants new skills, a sense of accomplishment and a love for animals. Professional instruction in basic riding techniques helps riders gain independence while improving balance, coordination and concentration.  This lovely stable offers participants indoor and outdoor riding facilities, opportunities to groom horses and interact with farm animals. Individualized riding evaluation at first class, and parent input will determine goals for each rider.
                Place:                      Hollow Brook Riding Academy, Putnam Valley
                Time:                      9:30 – 12:00 pm as assigned
                Cost:                       $ 280 for 7 weeks
                Start Dates:             Fall:         9/26/09
                                               Spring:    4/10/10
                                               Summer:   6/5/10

WACKY ART
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to expressing creativity through art materials.  Children are introduced to exciting art materials and projects each week, but are also encouraged to let their own creativity flow.  A fun and satisfying experience is as valuable as the project taken home each week.  This non-verbal form of self-expression helps many children find a comfortable way of joining a peer group, finding self-awareness and achievement.  Projects based on children’s abilities and interests, may include paint, clay, collage, sculpture, paper mache, tie-dye, stamping, holiday crafts and our own “wacky” art forms!
                Place:                     Yorktown High School
                Time:                      9:15 – 10:15 am
                Cost:                       $ 175 for 14 weeks, $ 350 full year
                Start Dates:             Fall:    10/3/09
                                               Spring: 2/27/10