The B.R.I.D.G.E.S Builders participated in a fun Community Based Instruction (CBI) activity last Friday, when they all were able to show their building skills as they all built a birdhouse together.

Facilitators, Kathy Gorman-Gard and Donna Mansolillo began the CBI reviewing what materials they needed for the activity.  The checklist is as follows:

  • Birdhouse wood pieces
  • Safety goggles
  • Hammer marker
  • Wood glue
  • Nails

Once the students had all their materials, they were instructed to label each piece with a letter. This would help with the step-by-step instructions since it was being done virtually.

The students were now ready to begin. Facilitators provided a power point that included pictures of what each piece should look like and how to assemble it. Students learned new phrases related to building such as beveled and flushed sides, eye screw, thread and claw of the hammer.

The class took a quick lunch break after completing the first few steps. During lunch, the students talked about what type of birds the birdhouse would attract and the different types of birdhouses  you can make.

After lunch, the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Builders put the finishing touches on their birdhouse. Although, there were challenges they encountered during this project, they persevered and completed their first very own birdhouse! The students were all so proud of their accomplishments and will now get to paint their birdhouse during their free time.

What a fun afternoon for the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Builders as they focused on independence, empowerment, and social skills during this CBI. We can’t wait to see what they will be building next!