As students in Surprise return to school, five local children with autism are entering the classroom for the first time. These children recently celebrated their school-readiness graduation from Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers after achieving milestones in communication, social and life skills.
To celebrate this achievement, nine Hopebridge clinics, including the Surprise location at 14510 W. Shumway Drive, No. 200, held graduation celebrations that included dance parties, cheer tunnels, bounce houses, balloons and other sensory-friendly activities.
The graduating children will join their peers in the classroom this back-to-school season, transitioning from interdisciplinary therapy programs, which may include applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy), occupational therapy and/or speech therapy.
“This is always such a bittersweet time for us, as we will miss these children dearly, but we are equally excited for them to have the opportunity to realize their true potential and learn how they can impact the world around them,” said Hopebridge Founder and Chief Clinical Officer, Kim Strunk. “Each child will carve their own path, and we are grateful Hopebridge was able to play a role in helping each one of them reach their future successes.”
Hopebridge focuses on early intensive behavioral intervention and its programs are designed to help patients develop communication, social and foundational life skills, including those that will set them up for success in the classroom.
In addition to school-specific skills, ABA therapy and other complementary services at Hopebridge aid children in diminishing challenging behaviors that could make attending school difficult, as well as assist them in discovering effective ways to communicate, if needed. Hopebridge is also experienced in bridging the gap between therapy and school and can guide caregivers during the transition process.
Visit hopebridge.com/school-readiness.
