Therapies and Specials
Therapies
Every student at Porter Academy participates in Speech-Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Music Therapy within a group setting. Our therapists support the success of each of our students both through remediation (filling in holes within the foundation) and modification of tasks and the environment. The modifications allow for immediate success; the remediation leads to lasting success. Our therapists also work closely with classroom teachers to integrate skill development and modifications into the classrooms.
- Speech-Language Therapy: Speech Therapy focuses on the development of receptive and expressive language as well as social communication skills. Every student receives speech language therapy within a group setting.
- Occupational Therapy: Occupational Therapy focuses on the development of sensory processing, gross and fine motor skills, handwriting, ocular-motor and visual-perceptual skills, and foundational cognitive abilities. Every student receives occupational therapy within a group setting.
- Music Therapy: Our music therapist uses music (singing, movement, instrument playing, listening, and creating) both to instill an appreciation of music itself and to develop foundational skills such as organization, sequencing, and self-control.
Specials
“Life depends on science, but the arts make it worth living” – John Martin, Cardiologist
Everyone has special strengths and passions, and oftentimes, these lay in the humanities. We feel it is important to facilitate the discovery and development of these passions through participation in specials and therapies. In addition to music therapy listed above, every student also participates in art class, physical education, sign language, library time, and computer lab.
- Art: The art program provides an array of creative experiences which are structured to promote the students’ self-expression and problem-solving skills as well as acquaint them with the art and artists of many cultures. Every student participates in art class once per week.
- Physical Education: The goal of our physical education program is to provide daily exercise as well as facilitate a life-long enjoyment of exercise by helping the children discover sports or activities that they enjoy. Every student participates in PE every day.
- Sign Language: As well as serving as a foreign language, Sign Language develops foundational skills such as visual perception, fine motor, and expressive and receptive language. Students participate in Sign Language class once per week.
- Library: Students visit the library with their classroom teachers at least once per week to read (solo or as a group) and check out books. This time helps foster a love of reading.
