A Whole Child Approach

Can you effectively learn if you are overwhelmed by noises and movement and lights?

Can you effectively think if you are stressed about what peers think of you? 

Can you effectively problem solve if you are inflexible? 

Can you effectively cope if you are always in fight or flight?

Can you enjoy your day if you are just holding it together? 

Can you meet your goals if you haven't internalized previous success? 

Can you be happy if your body feels terrible?

  

A whole child approach ensures the balance of the needs of an individual are met. Black and white "static" skills are critical elements of academics and independent livings skills, but cognitive and behavioral skills, or "dynamic" skills are essentials to executive functioning of those same tasks. 

For example, in Vocational Training for a cashier position may include step by step instructions for completing the check out and how to make change, but what happens if the register goes down, someone asks for help in an aisle, they don't give enough money, etc.? Both sets of skills are necessary for the success of employment.