What’s more effective than OT, PT, hydrotherapy, animal therapy or even sensory integration? Or simply put, what does one do when none of the above are working?
Those in the field of special education probably know that Israel often surpasses the States in terms of effectiveness. Though highly debatable as to why, many American parents and educators have turned to educators in Israel countless times for guidance and support. Recently a teacher at Sulam, one of Israel’s leading institutions for children with special needs weighed in on a little secret that has catalyzed such a breakthrough for her students that this past year, seventy-four kids from Sulam were successfully admitted into mainstream schools. This therapy has proved to be more effective than art therapy, physical therapy, animal therapy, and even sensory integration. What’s her secret?
Computers.
“I communicate to the students through the computer and they are able to more easily learn how to respond through the computer,” explains Sara Rachel.
Sara Rachel’s eyes sparkle as she recalls Yehuda, a previous student of hers who at first did not communicate at all. None of the other children wanted to play with Yehuda and he would cry in the hallways during recess. He was frustrated, isolated, and alone.
Then, Sara Rachel gave him a computer…And the entire staff was amazed: After trying almost every kind of therapy, Yehuda was finally learning how to express himself.
“It was such a life-changing tool for him. It helped him feel understood and taught him how to communicate, and ultimately, how to be a successful part of society,” Sara Rachel continues. “He was able to move on to a mainstream school and today is a capable and confident young adult.”
Yehuda is just one of the hundreds of students at Sulam who has had a complete breakthrough after trying this extremely simple yet effective method. Right now, funds are being raised to provide Sulam with 75 more devices so that this upcoming school year, more kids like Yehuda can have a new lease on life.
CLICK HERE to donate an ipad to Sulam, and give a little child in Eretz Yisroel the most beautiful gift of all: A chance.
