Programs - 2008 Summer Reading

The Reading Program supports the teaching of reading to individuals with Down syndrome believing that any level of reading helps move that individual towards greater independence, enhances communication skills and provides more meaningful connections to the world around the individual.

The Program

We will be using the methodology outlined in the book "Teaching Reading to Children with Down Syndrome" by Patricia Logan Oelwein (Woodbine House, 1995). It is an individualized, language-experience, functional reading program, adapted for children with Down syndrome. The program starts with sight word vocabulary building. The alphabet and letter sounds are taught after the learner has experienced success reading sight-words. After letters have been introduced, sight-words and phonics are taught concurrently.

Who can Attend?

  • Individuals, ages 5 and up who have a minimum attention span of 20-30 minutes.

When and Where?

  • Weekly 40-50 minute private (1 on 1) tutoring sessions for those individuals with longer attention spans.
  • Twice weekly 20-30 minute private (1 on 1) tutoring sessions for those individuals with short attention spans.
  • Sessions begin the week of June 16 and conclude the week ending July 21. Tutoring WILL BE HELD the week of July 4 (6 weeks).
  • Sessions will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday and/or Thursday and will begin at 9:00am.
  • Grand Rapids - The program will be held at Easter Seals, 4065 Saladin Dr SE, Grand Rapids (click here for map).
  • Lakeshore – a location has yet to be determined.

What is the Cost?

  • Payment of $75.00 is due upon enrollment
  • Financial assistance will be provided to those who request it. Please contact Char Hill at (616) 956-3488 or dsawm@iserv.net for a Financial Assistance Application.

Teacher Report

  • Please have your child’s teacher prepare a brief report indicating your child’s reading level, sight-word recognition level, alphabet and letter sound recognition and the reading program being used. We will need this information prior to the commencement of the program. DO NOT WAIT for this information before sending in your child’s enrollment form.

Other Pertinent Information

Parent Participation in the Math, Reading, Sensory & Speech/OT Programs For the participants to maximize their achievement in these summer programs, parents must observe the sessions and practice with their children at home throughout the week. We ask that parents agree to work at home daily with their children.

Facility Restrictions

  • As waiting room space is limited at the locations, we ask that families limit the number of people accompanying the child to one (1) parent or caregiver.

What About Family Vacations?

  • Unfortunately, therapists are NOT able to schedule around individual vacation times. We ask that families commit to all of the 6-week sessions.
  • No discounts will be given for missed sessions.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

  • If cancellation occurs before May 15, you will be refunded 100% of the fees paid.
  • NO REFUNDS will be given after May 15.

What Do I Need To Send In?

  • Completed Enrollment Form. (click here for enrollment form)
  • Check or money order for the enrollment fee(s).
  • Financial assistance will be provided to those who request it. Please contact Char Hill at (616) 956-3488 or dsawm@iserv.net for a Financial Assistance Application.

Due Date The Enrollment Form & Enrollment Fee are due by APRIL 15, 2008

Classes fill up on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Please do NOT wait for your child’s 2008-09 IEP/IFSP or teacher’s report to mail in your forms. Mail in your child’s most recent (2007-08) evaluation. DO NOT DELAY.

If you have any questions, contact Char Hill at (616) 956-3488 or dsawm@iserv.net