EM
ASHLEY'S LEARNING CENTER
NOVEMBER | 2023
NEWSLETTER
e s p m i l G A t s u J
VOL: 2 ISSUE:- 3
GIVING THANKS : A JOURNEY THROUGH THE HEART OF A SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOL In the heart of every special needs school lies a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, dedication, and gratitude. These unique educational institutions serve as beacons of hope and support for students with diverse abilities, fostering an environment where every individual is valued and celebrated. This November we delved into the profound sense of gratitude that permeates the corridors and classrooms of Ashley’s Learning Center, highlighting the remarkable journey of this institution and the countless reasons for appreciation. Eight years ago we started with one classroom, one teacher and one student, today we have three classrooms, seven faculty, 18 students and several dedicated volunteers and sponsors that made ALC's eight-year journey possible. The foundation of our school was built on the unwavering dedication of our educators, inclusive learning environments, parental involvement and support, celebrating small victories and community support and partnerships. These are the things we are most grateful for and to be able to provide these values to our children is something we treasure. The gratitude that extends throughout ALC is a testament to its profound impact on the lives of our students, families, and educators. It is a celebration of resilience, inclusivity, and the unwavering commitment to nurturing the unique potential within each individual. As we acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of those involved in ALC’s community, we are reminded of the transformative power of gratitude in creating a supportive and enriching educational environment for all, as in the TCI and greater Caribbean, Special Needs Children can still be stigmatized and excluded. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in ensuring ALC is the institution it is today and embracing our children every step of the way.
Our students thank two of our long-serving volunteers, Ms Ana & Ms Dolores
THE MORE YOU KNOW! POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Children with special needs often face unique challenges in their daily lives, and finding effective ways to support their growth and development is crucial. One approach that has shown remarkable success is the implementation of positive reinforcement. This method focuses on encouraging positive behaviour through praise, rewards, and acknowledgement, creating an environment that fosters self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. These can be displayed through simple gestures such as a smile, a high-five, or words to show your delight. Recognizing even the smallest of accomplishments can make a huge impact on the self-esteem of a child with special needs, as these seemingly small advancements can prove challenging and require immense effort, so let's share a little bit of positive reinforcement today.