Sometimes all it takes is one caring adult to make a difference.
The first day CHAT SLP Amber met Miles, she joined his preschool class out on the playground. It was a sunny day, and everyone was playing in the shade. Amber noticed Miles right away. She joined in his pretend play and did what he did. Miles took notice and laughed and smiled in response. That was when they first clicked.
Miles is an Autistic preschooler with a lot of needs. He has an aide in the classroom, but that is mostly helpful for 1:1 activities. When it comes to group activities, Miles tends to disengage and go off into his own world.
But every time Amber is there, Miles engages a bit more. She follows his cues. If he needs space, she gives it to him, and he eventually comes over to engage in the activity. If he needs sensory input, she gives him a hug and leads him over to circle time. Amber is intentional in bringing him into the group and helping him practice the group activity, and this approach has helped Miles engage with his peers.
“This is how I can best support him right now.”
– Amber, CHAT SLP
Because CHAT has consistently shown up to this preschool since September, Amber has been able to establish a connection with Miles that is above and beyond. This is the CHAT difference. We emphasize relationships over productivity, meet our clients where they are, and we take the time to serve them with care, compassion, and patience.
Your support means that we can be there for Miles and bring our neurodiversity-affirming services to others like him throughout Chicagoland.