Music has always been more than background noise—it’s a mirror of identity, emotion, and belonging. For teenagers, the songs they play on repeat are often a language all their own, expressing things they may not yet know how to say out loud. As parents and teachers, choosing to lean into the music teens love is …
Why iCan Dream Center Is Going Phone-Free At iCan Dream Center, we are always asking ourselves: How can we create the best possible environment for our students to grow, learn, and thrive? One powerful step we have taken is becoming a phone-free school. Why Phone-Free? Research and lived experience tell us that smartphones, while useful tools, can also …
1. What Are Restorative Justice Practices? Restorative justice (RJ) shifts the focus from punitive measures to healing—bringing together those harmed and those responsible to foster dialogue, accountability, and community repair. In schools, these techniques—like circles, mediation, and community conferencing—allow students to address wrongdoing, understand its effects, and actively participate in making things right. In the …
The smell of freshly sharpened pencils. The magic of a blank notebook waiting to be filled. It’s that time again—back to school at iCan Dream Center! And around here, we don’t just go back to school—we leap into a new year of dreaming big, belonging fully, and growing together. At iCan Dream Center, the first day of …
1. Set a Flexible Sleep Schedule Let’s be real—your teen probably won’t be waking up at 6:30 a.m. But encouraging a consistent bedtime and wake-up time (even if it’s 10 a.m.) can help their mood, energy, and ability to re-enter school routines in the fall. Use natural light, morning walks, or breakfast together to help …
You may see iCan Dream Center interns working at local businesses—greeting you, stocking shelves, clearing tables, washing hair, washing cars, or helping behind the scenes. These young people are learning, growing, and contributing every day. All ourstudents have Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and many have experienced trauma or systemic barriers that make this kind of …
Every June, Gun Violence Awareness Month serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the communities shattered by senseless acts of violence. But it’s also a call to action—a collective opportunity to imagine and create a safer world. At iCan Dream Center, we respond to that call by addressing one of the most …
Summer can feel overwhelming with pressure to plan elaborate activities—but for autistic children, it’s the simple, consistent moments of connection that matter most. Shared experiences like building a fort or watching the stars help strengthen trust, communication, and emotional security. These everyday interactions support sensory regulation and social-emotional growth, all while creating joyful memories together. When we …
Let’s be honest: being a teen is not always easy. Between school, social pressure, and just trying to figure out who you are, it can be a lot. But here’s the good news—you’re not alone, and sometimes, the right song at the right moment can make all the difference. Music has this wild superpower: it can …
Mental health and vision loss or blindness are interconnected, as the experience of losing one’s sight can profoundly impact emotional well-being, social relationships, and overall quality of life. Individuals facing vision loss often grapple with feelings of grief, anxiety, isolation, and depression, as they adjust to new limitations and navigate changes in their identity and …
