Posted by Lauren Grossberg on Mon, Jul 19, 2010
Often times, daily routine tasks are what prepares and give students the practice they need to learn and grow. This may be a challenge for students with special needs, because sometimes there is special equipment or tools needed to complete these tasks.
At Public School 107 in Flushing, New York, they have created a custom-built, handicapped-accessible kitchen for its physically and mentally disabled students. In this kitchen, they can learn day-to-day living and arithmetic skills. From baking a cake and mixing the right amount of each ingredient, to preparing a pizza in the oven, students will learn essential skills that will help them move about and flourish in the kitchen.
Students can learn so many skills from this one area that include reading, math, teamwork and other social skills. The kitchen, thanks to a $15,000 grant from the Home Depot and other generous donations, accommodates wheelchairs. Students who use chairs can now perform cooking tasks like holding bowls, stirring mixes and other motor skills. The spacious area allows for these students to move about with ease.
Not only have the students seen improvement in math and other skills, but parents have noticed self esteem changes, too. With more confidence in being able to perform everyday tasks, the students are having more fun with their learning experiences.
Being confident in these skills will also prepare students for living independently. Because of this important benefit, the kitchen will be open to all students so that everyone can learn these beneficial skills and tasks.
Picture By: Baying Hound
Free Teacher Resources | Special Education by MangoMon