Have Dreams programs are based on Structured Teaching developed by
Division TEACCH, at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, over 40 years ago.
At the core of all of our programs are goals for socialization, independence and communication. Participants are paired with a typically developing peer who has been trained as a social buddy and/or a staff member to facilitate social development. Opening and closing activities involve the whole group. Participants learn new concepts and are able to rehearse and expand social skills and language in a comfortable and familiar environment.
Social Skills - 1 & 2
A center-based program in which children are engaged in social learning situations and activities. Thematic units are integrated in each learning center. Learning centers include games, reading, art, motor, cooking and music.
Music & Social Games
Interactive songs and activities will provide the framework to encourage language and social skills. Skills such as turn-taking, waiting, sharing and attending will be practiced.
Instructional Swimming
Three levels of swim instruction led by an autism specialist follow the Red Cross instructional swim guidelines. Additionally, adaptive daily living skills (i.e. dressing independently) and safety are stressed.
Interactive Games & Art Therapy - 1 & 2
A center-based program that introduces children to board games, card games and group games. Games are adapted to promote socialization and communication skills. Adaptations and prompts are faded as children become familiar with and understand the games, enabling them to play the games in other settings. Art is also incorporated in this program, offering children a visual means of self-expression.
Cooking & Conversation - 1 & 2
Cooking activities provide a natural opportunity for practicing social skills, following directions, turn taking, and reading. Games and activities, which promote conversation, comprehension and asking/answering questions, round out the program.
Teen Program
A program for teens to develop daily living skills and independence in a structured environment. Each program offers activities to promote social interactions, working cooperatively, and learning new skills. Each week involves cooking (i.e. planning a meal, shopping, cooking, eating together, and cleaning up); units (i.e. safety, pop music, manners, nutrition, shopping mall); exercise; and independent /partner work activities. Participants also go on outings in the community (restaurants, movie, mall, bowling, etc.) to practice skills learned in class.
Animal Assisted Therapy
This is a cooperative program with Have Dreams and Rainbow Therapy Dogs. Have Dreams staff and AAT trainers work with Have Dreams children to provide interactive opportunities with specially trained dogs. Skills practiced include greeting dogs, taking care of dogs and walking dogs.
Have Dreams Special Olympics
This
program offers an opportunity for participation on a Special Olympics team and competition at state and local levels with other Special Olympics teams. Our track & field and aquatics teams' practices are held in Evanston with the help of Kellogg School of Business and Northwestern University volunteers.
Reading/Breakthrough to Literacy
A computer-based literacy program for Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade levels. Trained staff individually supervises each session.
Independent Living - 1 & 2
This pre-teen /teen program provides the opportunity to develop daily living skills, such as cooking, group games and independent leisure. Participants practice pre-vocational skills, preparation, job awareness and work stamina.
