Learning How to Use an ATM Machine
A.T.M.s are located all over the community to make banking easier for everyone. This week, the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had the opportunity to learn how to use an A.T.M. at the local Bank of America branch.
As part of the HDS Foundation B.R.I.D.G.E.S. grant, students in the program receive two checks during the school year to deposit in their student bank account. The funds are used each week for their Community Based Instruction (C.B.I.) trips to learn life skills, such as shopping, eating out, etc. Facilitators, Donna Mansolillo and Kathy Gorman-Gard use each activity as a “teachable moment.” This week was learning how to use an A.T.M. as the students deposited their second check from HDS Foundation.
The students are now ready to head out into the community and have new experiences. Bank accounts are now replenished, and students can now pay for their activities and practice their life skills. We are so proud of the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students as they continue to learn about banking, accounts, debit cards and now using an A.T.M.
Stay tuned to see where the students will head next week on the C.B.I.!
Mac n Cheese in a Mug!
Mac n Cheese, an all-time American favorite meal!
The B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had a chance this past week to participate in a 2-part activity making Mac n Cheese. In preparation for this Community Based Instruction (CBI) students had several steps to complete before they could make their meal.
First, they had to watch a You Tube video on how to make mac n cheese in a mug. The students then had to create a shopping list of ingredients they would need to make their mac n cheese.
Students then headed to Publix, where they were then divided into 4 teams. Each team was responsible for buying one of the ingredients for the entire class. This required calculating the amount needed for 14 students. The groups had to calculate the total and tax (if any) and pay with a Publix gift card.
On the following school day, the room was set up with 4 microwaves, and each student created their own macaroni n cheese in a mug. The class did an excellent job following directions and creating their own mac n cheese in a mug. All students gave it a 10 out of 10 rating! Yum!
Students continue to practice their Budgeting, Independence, Development and Social Skills in the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class!
Peace Mound Park
After the holiday break, the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class participated in a Team Building Community Based Instruction (CBI) at Peace Mound Park, a burial ground for the ancient tribes of the Tequesta Indians. The activity was designed as a Scavenger Hunt to bring the teams together for a fun and educational outdoor activity.
The students had to work together in groups of 3, to locate information about the Tequesta Indians which was marked along the pathway around the park. Once the students found the information based on the clues they were given, they had to record what they learned.
After completing the Scavenger Hunt, the teams returned to the Gazebo to enjoy lunch together outside. Students worked on their Development, Independence and Social Skills during this CBI.
Mentorship Month
January is a time to recognize the great mentors who have made a difference in the lives of others. The HDS Foundation recognizes eight of our programs dedicated and respected mentors that make a positive impact each day with their students. As one of the pillars of our foundation, “Mentoring” plays a critical role in the success of the students we serve on the Autism Spectrum. Through mentoring, students are provided the tools to make responsible choices about school and life. Therefore, honoring these exceptional mentors who play a significant role empowering teens, giving trusted advice, and raising their confidence levels creates a positive mentoring relationship.
The HDS Foundation would like to recognize the following mentors:
- Tara Rowe
- Kathy Gorman-Gard
- Donna Mansolillo
- Courtney Henry
- Karla Lama
- Paola Papili
- Amber Hood
-
Leah Guertin
Stay tuned as we share how these mentors inspire and encourage their students!
“One of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see and to help them navigate a course to their destination.” – John C. Maxwell
Holiday Party
Who is my Secret Elf?….was the question the B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had been thinking about for the past week! After the Community Based Instruction (CBI) to Walmart where students purchased gifts for their Secret Elf, they had to keep it a secret until the day of the holiday party.
This year, the students enjoyed lunch and dessert at Chili’s. Each student had to order their own food and pay for lunch and dessert with the debit card. Prior to their visit, each student learned how to get into their online account to find out how much money they had left in their account. This would allow them to know what their budget was for lunch and dessert.
After everyone finished dessert, gifts were handed out. Students had fun finding out who their Secret Elf was and the special gifts they had received. HDS Foundation also prepared a special gift for each student for the holidays. Everyone left with smiles and a handful of goodies.
We wish all our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students, teachers and parents a wonderful holiday season. We are looking forward to seeing all the great things the students learn in 2022!
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