So, WHY did we decide to offer classes for children with PDD/PDD-NOS?This is a great question. My husband & I have been training in the martial arts for over 20 years, but it was not until we opened our own studio and began talking to more and more parents, friends, students, etc. that we began to recognize the "need" for a school or the martial arts in general, to recognize these children & open their doors & curriculum to them. The martial arts has so much to offer to everyone and quite frankly my husband & have never been ones to turn anyone away or shy way because it may be challenging- we believe we can offer something to everyone. On a more personal note, we have a nephew with Aspergers Syndrome, who entered the martial arts in Virginia. His family immediately began to see the benefits of taking classes & this only served to encourage us more. We decided to read as much as we could on the subject & found that we weren't the only martial artists out there who recognized this "need" and that in fact many parents & doctors were actually turning to the martial arts as an alternative or in combination with other physical therapy regimens.
Will my child be in a class with mainstreamed children or solely other children on the Autism spectrum?
The ALL STARS class is solely for children on the spectrum. This way we are able to give each child a more "individualized" experience/lesson.
Will my child be promoted?
This is one of the most oft asked questions we receive. For some of the children yes, they will gradually receive promotions. Please understand that this greatly depends on the child & where they are on the "spectrum". You as the parent know your child better than anyone & what is most feasible in your child's case. We treat every child as an individual and encourage you to speak with your instructor on a one on one basis as to access your child's needs and expectations. For those children who will not be able to "test" and promote, we focus on the MANY other benefits to participating, including but not limited to socializing with the other children, focusing on set goals, stretching, blocking, kicking, breathing excersizes, etc.
How many children will be in each class?
We will not over fill this class, as it will defeat the ability to work with the children closely & keep "distractions" at a minimum. We will close enrollment in this class at 5 students.
What happens if my child tries this class but I feel he/she can or is ready for the "Beginners (mainstream) Class"? Again, we always encourage you to sit with your instructor and speak with them on an individual basis to determine the best path for your child. If it is indeed determined that your child is able/ready to give the "Beginner Class" a go, we will be there to help them do so.My child is considered very high functioning on the Autism spectrum, I feel they can do the Beginners class- do they have to participate only in the All Stars class?
We have other children who do participate regularly in the mainstreamed classes who fit into this characterization. We strongly encourage those children to try our All Stars Class first if this is the case. After your child has taken a couple of the All Star Classes, your instructor will know whether or not they are ready for the Beginners Class and will discuss this further with you or at your request. It is very important to us to place your child in the right learning environment for their needs. Often placing them in a Beginner Class before they are ready may lead to frustration for the child and that is exactly why we have created this All Star Class - in order to give them the best environment suited to their individual needs.
How often are the class/how many times per week?
We offer the All Stars class on Saturday mornings only, from 11:45am to 12:15pm. Please call the school for pricing information.
In need of a scholarship?
Todays economy certainly doesn't make it easy for anyone, so please know that The Autism Society of Union County does offer a scholarship to those who qualify. Check out their website for more in-depth details.
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