Equipment from the FCIDD Makes an Impact at SPARC!

SPARC has been awarded a grant by the Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) to acquire equipment that will enhance our programs.

Ryan has a special affinity for magnetic blocks. Here he is, diligently working to construct a tower that surpasses his own height!

These captivating blocks foster essential skills:

• Problem-solving by experimenting with block combinations and figuring out how to assemble their envisioned structures.
• Creativity and imagination through the limitless possibilities of open-ended construction, free from step-by-step instructions.
• Reasoning by discerning what contributes to or detracts from the stability of their creations.
• Concentration, as the enthralling nature of the blocks holds their attention.

Taku is captivated by a sensory light display synchronized with music on the iPad. This activity provides multiple advantages for adults with disabilities:

• Calming and Relaxation: The sensory lights, when paired with tranquil music, establish a serene setting that aids in alleviating anxiety and stress.
• Improved Focus and Attention: The blend of visual and auditory stimuli can enhance concentration and sustained attention in individuals with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorders.
• Sensory Stimulation: It offers an immersive multi-sensory experience, especially beneficial for those with sensory processing disorders, enabling them to interact with their surroundings in a manageable and pleasurable manner.
• Emotional Regulation: The systematic patterns of lights and music support emotional regulation, assisting individuals in better managing their feelings.
• Enhanced Cognitive Function: Participation in sensory light shows can activate cognitive abilities, including memory and problem-solving.
• Entertainment and Enjoyment: Apart from the therapeutic value, sensory light shows are also a source of fun and engagement.

The AbleNet adapters empower our SPARC friends to operate various cooking devices with a simple press of an oversized button!

At SPARC, cooking is integrated as a vital life skill, practiced almost daily in our centers. Cooking imparts several key lessons:

The inability to cook can lead to poor nutrition, limited food choices, and reliance on others for meals. Yet, adults with developmental disabilities deserve more options than just microwaving frozen meals or dining out.

The focus of our cooking lessons is on mastering basic skills and familiarizing oneself with the kitchen environment. This includes learning to measure ingredients accurately, handling knives safely, determining when food is properly cooked, and adhering to recipes.

Teaching the fundamentals of cooking as a life skill begins with clear, step-by-step cooking instructions that build confidence and enjoyment in the kitchen incrementally.

Demonstrating cooking techniques allows SPARC friends to observe without the pressure of potentially ruining their meal, which may also pique their interest in the cooking process.

Using a hand-over-hand technique to teach safe knife usage and ingredient measurement instructs without directly pointing out mistakes.

Finally, entrusting participants with the task of reading and following recipes in sequence is an effective method for teaching independent cooking. Acquiring basic cooking skills lays the foundation for preparing a variety of dishes, fostering the confidence and motivation to try new recipes independently.

And, at the end of the day, we all enjoy tasting our culinary creations!

Guided Hands is an internationally acclaimed assistive device designed to enable individuals with limited fine motor skills to write, paint, draw, and interact with technology.

It offers the following features:

• Encourages guided hand movements.
• Its sliding system promotes the use of gross motor skills in the shoulders over the limited fine motor skills in the hands.
• The utensil holders are versatile and compatible with pens, pencils, paintbrushes, markers, and styluses.
• Includes an ergonomic wrist rest and an adjustable strap.
• Features ambidextrous handpieces that are customized to accommodate different levels of hand mobility.

I really like Guided Hands because it allows me to draw!

~ Jonah, SPARC participant

The grant from FCIDD enables SPARC to achieve the goals of our mission to provide adults with severe and multiple disabilities enduring learning opportunities, social connections, and a rightful and meaningful place in our community. To learn more about our programs please visit: www.sparcsolutions.org.