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 Home • School Fairs • Alumni |
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Learning to Communicate Danielle Skinder, Community Services/Social Services For the past month, I worked at the Bridge School in Magda’s Early Years 1 class, with children ages 4 to 7 who have autism and various other learning disabilities. Although some of the children are verbal communicators, most use nonverbal communication. I learned Makaton, a technique similar to sign language, which uses signs and symbols to teach communication, language and literary skills to people with communication and learning disabilities. Additionally, I took it upon myself to learn how to use PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) in order to better communicate with the children through the use of pictures. I took the initiative to learn how my children communicated and how to best interact with them by observing them in the classroom and by consulting with my colleagues. Throughout my internship I’ve been exposed to state-of-the art equipment and facilities that have been created to enhance the learning environment and the lives of all the children. The teachers I work with are nice, fun-loving and knowledgeable. Through this experience, I have learned to be a self-advocate and an advocate for others. I’ve also learned to be more tolerant of different people’s skills, learning abilities and needs. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from an incredibly dedicated and talented staff who allowed me to work independently and responsibly. I was introduced to concepts that were new to me, and I was able to use the knowledge I gained in concrete, practical, and personal ways every day. I learned about tolerance and patience. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to work with the staff and students at this school. |
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