Vision, philosophy and methods
Our actions are based on various proven methods for working with exceptional children:
This concept was developed by James McMillan in 1949. In Holland the Halliwick concept is actively lectured by Johan Lambeck. Guiding principles are personal independence and participation in the water. Competing isn’t the end goal. All children are watched closely and challenged to take a next step in a playful way where keywords are patience and trust. This method does not use floatation aids. More detailed information can be found at www.halliwick.net
“Contactgericht Spelen en Leren” (CSL) is a program developed by Anneke Groot. This method is a Dutch approach to helping children with developmental difficulties. It is inspired by other methods such as Son-Rise (Kaufman), Growing Minds (S. Wertz) and Floortime (Greenspan), the Option-method and Anneke’s own practical experience. CSL handles child development and its specific challenges concerning data processing, planning, sensory processing, speech and emotions. The best part of this method is that it is entirely adaptable to the specific needs of the child, the child is handled with respect and in a non-directive manner.
Our lessons partly involve sensory integration. Sensory processing is the cooperation between perception on the one hand and the resulting activity on the other hand. Disabled children often have sensory issues that may not always be discerned by others or are sometimes being underestimated. Sensory integration is designed to induce the appropriate sensory system and prompt the brain to process the data more effectively. Sensory processing is an innate part of the social-emotional development of children. So, with our sensory integration activities we work on improving both the physical and mental health of your child.
Ai Chi is a water-based total body strengthening and relaxation program based on Eastern philosophies. It combines Tai-Chi concepts with Shiatsu and acupunctural techniques. It’s a perfect relaxation technique that helps balance your child both physically and mentally.
“Every child is different. Every story is unique. If you watch closely and listen carefully, you will recognize the language!”
What’s our vision?
- “If the beaten path doesn’t get you there, then take the road that does!”
- Every child has its own special qualities and talents. We always use a positive approach and give loads of compliments in order to improve the child’s confidence and encourage their self-esteem.
- Children learn from us and from each other for every child has unique gifts and talents.
- Teamwork is so important. Close communications between you as parent(s) or caretaker(s) and us is very important to us, since you know your child best. Besides that, if desired we can keep close contact with teachers, therapists or other trainers involved with the child.
- We want parents to be present during lessons.
- Playful learning: Children learn best through play. Play provides a non-threatening setting for kids to learn about their world in a fun way.
- Movement enhances learning skills. It improves young children’s capacity to develop and learn, not only motorically but emotionally and socially as well.
- We really “see” your child. Whether your child has a medical indication or not, we always challenge ourselves to look at children in a non-judgmental way. Effective observation makes it possible for us to form a plan and offer tools for the best possible guidance of the child.
- Challenging behaviour may seem confusing, inappropriate or even frightening. We try to understand why this behaviour occurs and believe in addressing it in a positive way.
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