This program is designed to support students with sensory diversity and additional exceptionalities.
During these routine-based sessions, students will have opportunity to support sensory, communication, and social skills and develop an understanding about their world, through songs and conversation. The overall objective of our social group is to facilitate an inclusive learning environment and support access to learning for our students.
Instructional strategies include reducing visual complexity, providing contrast, additional wait time, and embedding a variety of communication tools, to better reflect our learners and support inclusion.
Participants will have multiple opportunities to engage with the class (e.g., say hello/goodbye, share their weather, identify the day of the week, and show & share, comment/respond). The sessions also work as a completely receptive activity. Students are encouraged to participate to their comfort level.
These programs offer 3 x~30-minute classes 4 days each week (Monday-Thursday).
Each week will feature a new theme, largely based on the seasons and seasonal changes. The content each week will include objects, concepts, and diversity days, based on the time of year. In every class, we use a core group of songs (e.g., hello/goodbye, weather, and days of the week), that do not change throughout the year. In addition, we will have songs and activities, which will highlight the specific theme of the week, yet still follow a familiar format. For example, counting rhymes/songs, and songs to encourage movement, are included in each class. This consistent format may support students’ engagement and understanding as to what to anticipate and what are their expectations.
The year will be divided into Blocks (5-8 weeks in each block). In addition to the annual outcomes targeting sensory, communication, social, and cognitive development, each week will also have specific goals (e.g., up/down, identifying color, shape) for that period.
Participants will receive the content information (e.g., weekly agendas and content), ahead of the start time. This will allow sufficient time for participants to prepare supporting materials that may enhance their experience and increase engagement.
School teams can register at any time throughout the year. Once registered, students can join any class at any time on any of the days offered.
Program Details
Monday to Thursday
The Early Birds: 8:45 to 9:15 a.m. (AST) / 9:15 to 9:45 p.m. (NST)
Leaping Lobster Club: 9:30 to 10 a.m. (AST) / 10 to 10:30 a.m. (NST)
Camp Barracuda: 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. (AST) / 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. (NST)
Program Registration
Online learning programs for children and youth are designed for students who qualify for APSEA services and registration must be completed by the student's APSEA Educational Support Teacher (EST) / itinerant teacher.