Horticulture and gardening are the most recent additions to the curriculum leading to maximum functioning of the students and the members of the Adult Program at Githens Center.  The Horticulture Program is curriculum-based and consistent with the New Jersey Agricultural Education Association activities that help students meet the New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards.  The Program provides opportunities to develop many life skills including learning to nurture living things, experiencing a life cycle, and performing job-related tasks that could lead to future employment or volunteerism. The visual and tactile nature of the program offers additional stimulation in the areas of eye-hand coordination and fine and gross motor skills. Listening, following directions, spatial relations, counting, and measuring are only a few of the other skills learned and/or reinforced.  None of this would be possible without staff dedication and commitment to this new endeavor.

 

Lead Teacher Rosann DeFelice was presented with the idea and enthusiastically searched for information and materials. 

Teachers, staff and volunteers adapted tables, rearranged the furniture and closets, and readjusted lighting, transforming one of the rooms into a “greenhouse”, after only a few weeks of planning and hard work. The outdoor flower beds will be used for seasonal gardening.  Other accessible facilities within the Adult Center will allow the students and the adults to participate in activities necessary for developing homemaking and other life skills. 

 

Mrs. DeFelice  and Ms.Tanya Sessons, Adult Day Program  Coordinator, consulted with the occupational therapist in selecting the appropriate adapted tools and equipment needed for active participation.  The Program provides hands-on learning at least two days per week.  The study of plant life is also an integral component of the weekly science lessons for all students.

 

The Horticulture Program was funded through donations made in memory of the late William T. York, Sr., husband of Kate York, Githens Center Executive Director.

A nursing student from College of NJ helps JR identify plants.

GITHENS CENTER EXPANDS PREVOCATIONAL AND LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM

Inside this issue:

Messages

spring 2008

Special points of interest:

· Horticulture Program added to the Prevocational and Life Skills Program

· 20th Annual Bike/Walk-A-Thon and Golf Classic

· Highlights of the After-School     Program

Matthew and teacher assistant, Stacey Fabi, observe a plant’s  physical condition.

Natalie performs routine care of the plants.

“I know that my husband is very proud that the children and adults at Githens Center are benefiting from the donations made in his memory.  Githens Center had a very

special place in his heart.” —Kate G. York

Celebrating Githens Center Services to

Children and Adults with Disabilities and Their Families