This is a Service Learning Model for high school students initiated by the Rhode Island Developmental Disabilities Council and currently a Project of National Significance from the Administration for Developmental Disabilities. The model matches high school students with youngsters with developmental disabilities for inclusion in community activities. The Service Learning Model starts with comprehensive preparation in the classroom. Academic modules addressing child development in the areas of gross and fine motor skills, play activities, receptive and expressive communication, and mental health issues are provided. Additionally, four sessions of adaptive aquatics training and Family and Friends CPR are offered. These instructional activities prepare the high school students to earn academic credit by volunteering for community agencies that provide therapeutic or recreational services to children with developmental disability. The model can be adapted to include other services (e.g. substituting pet therapy for pool assisting) and/or other service groups (e.g. pre-school therapeutic play, middle school tutoring or Special Olympics).

Website: www.learningthroughassisting.org

Contact:
Kathleen Fresher-Samways
RI Developmental Disabilities Council
401-741-5759
or Contact through the website above