I can sit and write about the students at the iCan Dream Center ALL day, but it suddenly hit me that I might have a story to tell, too! If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind some of the iCan Dream Center blog posts, I’m here to reveal this month’s masked woman! If you haven’t heard …
As we all know, 2020 was probably the biggest emotional rollercoaster of a year since 2016. From the celebrity deaths (REST IN PEACE KOBE AND GIGI), to the canceled events, to the global pandemic that continues to loom, it seems fair to say, 2020 was the worst year ever. And if it is not, it …
The importance of repetition cannot be understated. In fact, it should be repeated that repetition is an essential learning aid. It allows a conscious skill to transfer into one’s subconscious, freeing up working memory and allowing for further skills learning (“The Power of Repetition”, 2016). A key thing to remember about repetition is that perfect …
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world as we knew it. Almost everything that was once done in person, in groups is now done remotely. There is no question that this was initially stressful for students, parents and educators. We want everyone to be safe, but how can teaching be effective through the computer? In order …
At iCan Dream Center, staff members use a strengths-based approach when working with students, identifying and focusing on students’ individual strengths. This perspective has been found to build students’ self-esteem and confidence, which are integral to a successful learning process (Semegran, 2019). Students with diverse learning needs may struggle with focus, social skills, or motivation, …
Many students, no matter their age, may be anxious about learning or associate it with boredom. For students of all ages, fun, productive stimulation should be involved in the classroom (Lucardie, 2014). It is easier by nature to add “fun” games to younger students’ classrooms. As children age, the less fun and fewer games there …
Where do you go when you feel like you don’t belong? In youth development, the Circle of Courage is based on the principles of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Today, we will delve deeper into the quadrant of belonging, which emphasizes the importance of having a sense of connectedness to someone or something. When a …
In times of need, transition, and even in some everyday situations, when strong support systems are present, lifelong bonds can be built. Many identify those who help support, empower, and strengthen them as family. At iCan Dream Center, “Connection” is a core value. The core value of ‘Connection’ means that we relate to one another …
A token economy is a great tool to give students something to look forward to while also encouraging them to engage in positive behavior. A token economy is a system in which students are provided opportunities to earn tokens for their work with the goal of modifying their behavior and motivating them to achieve their …
The milestone moments of life — the kind of moments that people cherish forever — always call for celebration. The first time a family is able to take their child home from the NICU after months, the first time your child takes his first steps after being told he may not be able to walk, …
