News and Notes from The Johnson Center
You Are Invited To Our Back-to-School Bash
JCCHD | Tue, August 21, 2012 | [Community][Events]
Open any newspaper and you will see back-to-school-sale flyers filled with happy scenes of kids getting ready for the new year. Ice cream socials, pool parties, and last-minute shopping trips for supplies are on the agenda for many families, but for families with children with autism or other developmental disorders, the big day can be intimidating. The new school year brings a new schedule, new IEP goals, and new teachers, and the change is sometimes overwhelming.
A few years ago a parent told us that this time of year always inspired fear and anxiety in him and his family. All of the transitions, coupled with concern for his child’s happiness and welfare, meant this was a time they all dreaded.
We decided to try to make a small difference for local families by providing an annual event where they would be comfortable celebrating the kick-off to another school year - a safe event where everyone is welcome.
This annual event has been a great success. Several hundred families have joined us to ring in the new school year and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. One mother recently told us that they had given up participating in celebrations at school, because her son would get overwhelmed and tantrum and other parents at school often didn’t understand. She said that at this event she felt safe surrounded by people who “get it,” and both she and her son have come to look forward to this party each year.
The tradition continues this Saturday; the free event will be held at the Austin Recreation Center from 11 am – 1 pm. Everyone is welcome, and there should be something for everyone. A bounce house, games, crafts, face painting, a photo booth, a coffee station for parents, a cake walk, allergen-friendly treats, and music by singer-songwriter Darden Smith, as well as amazing raffle prizes, will ensure this will be a great way for families to kick off the new school year.
RSVP by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or calling (required), and you may be the lucky winner of gift certificates for supplements, spa services, or other great prizes. Please invite your friends; we look forward to seeing you all this Saturday to celebrate the start of another school year.
