My students need a play kitchen to encourage social engagement with their peers. Work boxes promote independence in tasks appropriate for my students' current ability levels.
My students are an energetic, curious group who live in a small, rural town in north eastern Alabama. Most have limited financial means as well as limited exposure to the world outside the town limits.
Despite the limitations placed on them by functional, emotional, and developmental delays, my students are eager to know more about the world around them.
I want to feed their curiosity by teaching them skills to help them become productive citizens who positively impact their world!
My Project
Students with developmental delays often lack basic functional skills that others take for granted. They may appear awkward or uncomfortable in public, lacking the communication and social skills required to interact with their same-age peers. Areas such as receptive or expressive language, as well as fine or gross motor skills can also be affected.
Pretend play encourages learning through peer interaction and reduces discomfort in social situations.
Students engage with their peers in a relaxed, "no pressure" environment...they don't even realize they're learning! In addition to the social benefits, the familiar setting of a kitchen allows the teacher to incorporate subtle academic and life skill lessons as well. Counting, measurement, time, nutrition, cleaning, and manners could all be addressed...just to name a few!
Work boxes are another great way to encourage responsibility and independence in special needs children. Basic tasks keep little hands busy while teaching sorting by color, size, and texture. Other possible tasks include sequencing, opposites, and matching similar items. Your generosity can make a difference in the lives of these special kids!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. B. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.