Black Bear is pleased to offer this program for families in both our Language Enrichment and Therapeutic programs.
Language Enrichment Caregiver Training - These sessions are designed to teach caregivers the basics about typical child development in skill areas of language, fine and gross motor, play and social development. Topics discussed include a basic understanding of both developmental and cognitive learning theories, developmental milestones according to age, the value of multi-sensory play and the opportunities and responsibilities of caregivers in the park setting. Caregiver playskills are practiced in activities with your child and include utilization of strategies designed to enhance language skills and optimize learning, increasing the cognitive complexity of play through imaginitive and representational play, choosing toys that facilitate more complex developmental skills given age-based expectations, fine and gross motor skill enhancement via playground equipment and communication styles that support your child's communication skills. A play-based Developmental Assessment is required.
Therapeutic Training
Therapeutic Caregiver Training - Same as above but individualized to support your child's specific needs. Your caregiver, child and a Black Bear Speech Pathologist work together in both unstructured play environments and structured task-based activities designed to facilitate a greater understanding of therapeutic approaches and techniques specific to your child. Coursework includes topics such as effective modification strategies in both home and community environments such as mealtimes, selfcare, retail stores, local parks and sibling interaction and/or play-based social interactions. Successful transitioning techniques are discussed and practiced in addition to training designed to enhance carryover of therapeutic gains in a play-based facilitation of emerging skill sets or mastered skills in more structured settings. Your caregiver will practice therapeutic techniques in play-based activities designed to enhance overall developmental gains and specific skill sets based on therapeutic goals. Opportunities for discussion of specific problems you or your caregiver would like to address will be incorporated in every session. A Speech Language Evaluation is required of every child in this training program.
Speech-Language Evaluations and Therapy- We offer pediatric speech therapy services to children requiring a medically-based approach. We provide the clinical services required when a child is suspected to have, or is diagnosed with having, delays in language, learning and cognitive development. We provide individual therapy services to children whose diagnoses may include Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, Aspergers, Unspecified Developmental Delays, Speech-Language Disorders, Auditory Processing Deficits, Motor Planning Impairments, Sensory Integration Disorders, Feeding and Swallowing Difficulties, Apraxia, Dysarthria and other deficits associated with pediatric syndromes or genetic disorders. We work closely with your physician and other professionals treating your child to promote a collaborative and cohesive treatment approach in a classroom setting.
