Principles
of the Growing Minds Autism Program

Recovery is possible for many children with autism-spectrum disorders. Intensive, one-to-one programs, including home-based programs, offer the greatest possibility for recovery.

Children who are unable to recover fully can make substantial progress. They can be helped to enjoy meaningful relationships and to increase cognitive, language, social, academic, motor and self-help skills. Intensive, one-to-one programs, including home-based programs, offer the greatest possibility for growth.

Effective treatment for autism must facilitate positive, nurturing relationships between children and their parents and teachers. When this portion of the program is effective, children are likely to increase interaction, eye contact, attention, affection, simple communication and enjoyment of people. For this portion of our program, we utilize play-based, intensive interaction methods.

Effective treatment for autism must include systematic education. This includes assessing current skills, defining goals, using clear teaching methods and evaluating progress. When this portion of the program is effective, children are likely to increase receptive and expressive language, as well as cognitive, academic, motor and self-help skills. For this portion of our programs, we utilize Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA).

Children are more motivated to learn when the teaching style is dynamic and playful.

Most children with autism benefit from certain biomedical and/or sensory interventions. As educators, we inform parents of their options and refer them to health professionals specializing in autism.

The program must be tailored to fit the child (and family), rather than trying to fit the child (or family) to the program. Decisions about teaching methods, goals, play/therapy room, program hours and school attendance must be made on an individual basis.

Parents and teachers are most effective when they feel optimistic, comfortable, empowered and healthy. Parents and teachers must care for themselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Children with autism deserve to be accepted, respected and celebrated as unique individuals. They contribute greatly to others and they have enormous potential for growth.

Growing Minds can be combined with other approaches to enhance your success, including The Son-Rise* Program, ABA, Teacch, Lovaas, AIT, etc.

15096 115th Avenue North, Jupiter, Florida 33478
Phone: 561-748-9697 Fax: 561-748-6543

* The Son Rise Program is a registered trademark belonging to Barry Neil Kaufman and Susan Marie Kaufman. Growing Minds is not affiliated with the Kaufmans or the Son Rise Program.

Copyright © Growing Minds Autism Programs, 1999
Site designed & hosted by Big Blue Design

Home

Our Programs
Program Principles
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Son Rise Alternative
Comprehensive Program
Register For
Parent's Review
Distance Training
Register For
Parent's Review
In-Home Program
Netherlands Program
Paris Program NEW!
Paris Program in French
Florida Accommodations
Program Fees

Children's Progress

FAQ

Staff Bios

Biomedical Program

Articles
Extraordinary Parenting
Special Mothers
Focus
Taking The Lead
Attitude Plus

Discussion Forum

Contact Us