New Frontiers in Learning

WEEK 2

We had an amazing second week and the students are showing progress in social and executive functioning skills, navigating travel to and from home and within NYC, participation, building new friendships, and, most of all, confidence!

On Monday, the group visited the Museum of the City New York. Students were exposed to the history of graffiti art in NYC, the Tiffany & Co. jewelry of the Gilded Age in NY, an exhibit of NYC Activist Movements, the architectural influence of Guastavino, and a short film representing 400 years of NYC history. The afternoon lesson featured a group discussion about tolerance and respect in reference to Art and Religion.

On Tuesday morning, the group visited the Hayden Planetarium where students enjoyed the “Great White Shark” IMAX film. Students continued the development of independent travel skills by navigating the NYC subway transit system to the planetarium from Grand Central.

On Wednesday, students were able to enjoy the artifacts and traditional dress of the American Indian at the Museum of the American Indian. Afterwards, students walked over to the 9/11 Memorial reflecting pools to experience the powerful intention it represents. Skill building activities emphasized the development of social and communication skills while students engaged in a stress management discussion. Highlights included defining and identifying modalities on how to cope, as well as a group meditation session facilitated by staff.

On Thursday morning, students shared current events and discussed the importance of awareness of topics in our local and global community, such as the Ebola virus outbreak, Middle East conflict, and Fukushima radiation concerns in Japan. In the afternoon, the group visited the NYPD museum, followed by a round of mini golf at Pier 25, where they practiced social skills and friendly competition!

On Friday, students had the opportunity to explore the NY Aquarium and walk the Coney Island Boardwalk. Students learned about various marine life from around the world. Afterwards, students walked along the boardwalk and enjoyed lunch at Famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs.

Stay tuned for details from our last week!