Past projects 2
Using Technology to Manage Stress and Anxiety
Funded Oct 9, 2014Wow! I wish you could see the impact these iPods are having on our students. My students, with high functioning autism and/or Asperger's Syndrome, experience a constant barrage of over stimulation from sounds, smells, visual stimuli and social interactions, that can often make a typical school day too much to bear. Thanks to your generosity, we've been able to introduce technology as a means of relaxation. The results have been excellent!
Now, instead of melting down, our students have the opportunity to tune out and self-soothe using apps like "Relaxing", "Balls", "Pocket Pond 2", and "Relax Melodies", just to name a few of their favorites. The very best part of this, from an educator's point of view, is that it's a real life skill. Using technology as a means to get through their academic day, can and will translate appropriately into their working lives, beyond school. I can't think of a better gift to give my students, than to help them fill their personal "toolboxes" with skills that will help them to successfully navigate the world they live in. You have helped to contribute to their success, in a major and meaningful way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am constantly overwhelmed by the generosity of our community. My students are very fortunate to live in a place that strives so hard to support them, and to see them succeed. Thank you!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Bristow
Sensory Room
Funded Jul 18, 2014Wow! I wish all of you could come see the impact the Sensory Room you funded has had on our students. It's remarkable! Thus far, our students have explored all of the items in the sensory room, and created an individual sensory diet. They've identified items that will help them to calm/relax, rev up/increase alertness, and have identified appropriate fidget items for having in their classes.
Students have been successful in avoiding meltdowns in classes, by taking breaks in their sensory room. This is HUGE!! They've requested an art wall, and Expo markers for those of them who find creativity to be a relaxing outlet. They've found solace in cocooning themselves in the swing you gave them, and have released energy on their trampoline and with yoga balls. Some like to lay on the mat you gave them, and hold the medicine ball. Others prefer the Thinking Putty you gave them to help calm themselves, and distract from their anxiety. All of them have found specific fidget items you gave them, to be soothing and helpful. They are seeking out their room during their school day, to help them to be successful, and to find a retreat from an environment that can be overly stressful and overly stimulating all too often.
They were all so touched by your generosity. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can't thank you each enough. Please rest easy and with peace of mind that your kindness has made a tremendous impact on some pretty special kids.
THANK YOU!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Bristow