Welcome to the Sirius Kids' Connection
What is the Sirius Kids Connection? It’s an eight week program designed to develop social skills and build self confidence in our kids on the autism spectrum using the family dog in a specially tailored basic dog training program. Our goal is to involve the whole family in a positive and meaningful common goal.
We cover topics like leadership and what makes a good leader. What is positive reinforcement and how do we use it to get what we want. We learn to understand differences in each other and how to adapt what we’re doing to meet our goals. We learn to “Know who we’re dealing with” and what that looks like in real situations.
Why are we using this format? First of all, it is our hope that this program will have something to offer each member of the family in a fun upbeat format. Our kids develop social skills and self-confidence while the parents come away with additional behavior modification tools. Secondly, it is designed to take the focus off of our kids while still giving them the opportunity to develop the skills they need to succeed. Thirdly, as most of us are painfully aware Colorado ranks forty eighth in the nation for services for our kids and number one in the nation for out of pocket expenses. Sirius Kids' is designed to be cost effective and easily accessible to the average family.
We also work in cooperation with Patty Dobbs Gross of the North Star Foundation , an organization that provides specially bred assistance and companion dogs for children on the the autism spectrum or with other developmental disabilities. For more information on her program go to www.northstardogs.com.
New research is coming out almost daily validating that what we are doing is effective. Meltdowns become less frequent and less intense. One of the families that graduated the Sirius Kids’ Program reports that her son completely quit hitting at home. But not only are we enhancing the life of our autism spectrum children, reports back from parents tell us that the presence of these special dogs and the tools we provide enhances the lives of everyone in the home.
This is a very cost effective program when compared to what is available elsewhere. And it is fun! If you have any questions regarding my program or if you would like to become involved please call or e-mail me using the contact information on this site.
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