An SB mom’s description of what our program did for her son Brandon

I spent the whole night thinking about his transition and have not slept in amazement.

I think,  the first was that I was honest with you and told you that he was on the spectrum.    

By default you created a culture to ensure his success.  He likes being alone and it’s because at times he doesn’t feel fully integrated and welcomed.

You selected specific kids of certain temperament to be with him and you gave him space to observe and spent time with him while encouraging him.  Many times at the beginning, I worked from my phone and laptop closed by in case he didn’t want to stay, was not being treated right; since the calls never came , I went back to the business as usual feeling that he was cared for. 

Brandon has become confident in his skin and with his body. I was always afraid that he was unaware or unable to control his strength.  I watched from afar getting a rebound and as others tried to take the ball his reaction was measured and appropriate.  He laughs more, he walks with pride and confidence.  He is open to new things.  He jokes more and understands direction / instructions better.  I actually believe that will help with his learning.  I watched him transition from seating alone under the tarp to seating next to his teammates , to yesterday, I saw him standing up , cheering loudly, clapping and saying let’s go to his teammates. 

I watched him transition from ready to sneak out at first to now staying to say goodbye to the others.  

I don’t know how or what you said to prep the kids or the coaches, they have created a real caring , supportive and engaging environment for him.   

I witnessed his peers saying, great job B.  Are you coming next week ? I won’t be there but will be there the following.  I will see you then.    And giving him high five and saying see you tomorrow .

I watched him get on those Citi bikes with the others when they are early as opposed to staying alone.  He is blending in more

Coach Ali has such pride when he speaks of him that touches my soul.  All of the coaches have been amazing and have created a safe learning space for him.  He has learned to be more collaborative and interactive.  

He is focused on eating healthy, on taking care of himself and caring more about how he presents himself. He walks with pride , stands tall and makes eye contact more.  

He is assigned chores at home, when he fails to do them , i threaten to pull him out of camp and he gets to them ASAP.  When I got your text about getting someone to pick him up I actually thanked GOD that he placed you in my path.  He got himself ready independently .  He now says, «  trust me, I got this «  to me lot so I am learning as well to give him more space because he is so confident.

The magic recipe is all of the structure that you placed around him that are clicking to expand his emotional, physical and social growth.  

Coach Eommon said, he showed him Google Maps and somehow Brandon memorized it. That not something I ever thought of. 

You are treating him with kindness not pity and at times people confused the two.

He also no longer say I can’t do certain things- he is focused on trying harder!