'Butterfly' program boosts toddlers' social skills
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Many early education professionals say that socialization is one of the most important tools a young child can hone at an early age.
That is why the Early Learning Institute has implemented a special program that is geared to giving young children a strong push toward gaining confidence and an ability to socialize with their peers.
The Social Butterflies Program, directed by educator and early intervention specialist Melanie Hathaway, is designed for toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years to encourage social skills and develop friendships -- tools that can lead to a happy and healthy childhood. It is offered at the Early Learning Institute's Castle Shannon and Coraopolis locations.
"It is geared for children who are a little shy or may face some developmental challenges," Ms. Hathaway said. "There is a good deal of structure that allows the kids to develop key social skills."
The program takes place over a six-week period during the school year. Sessions, which include up to 12 children, last 75 minutes and take place once a week. Skills learned include social, cognitive and motor in a fun but structured environment. Fifteen minutes are devoted to play, 15 minutes dedicated to awareness, 15 minutes toward physical movement, 15 minutes toward listening and 15 minutes toward miscellaneous activities, such as making crafts or enjoying a snack.
"We will go into the gym and work on body awareness as well," Ms. Hathaway said. "The parent/caregiver is involved in the process. It really is something to see and experience."
Ms. Hathaway said the program is especially helpful for young children without siblings or neighborhood playmates.
"The results are definitely there," she said. "I have been told by so many parents and families that they see an increased confidence level in their children during and when they complete the program. It truly is heartwarming."
Each program is divided into two groups: one for infancy to 18 months, the other for 18 months to 3 years of age.
"This is such an important time for the development of young children," said Ms. Hathaway. "It is a great opportunity for a child who may not be as socially developed or shy to develop those social skills that are so important as they go through life."
Ms. Hathaway worked for seven-plus years as an elementary school teacher throughout the South Hills and Mon Valley before plying her craft as an early intervention specialist at the Early Learning Institute.
The Social Butterflies program was born in 2008 and is gaining steam, but, according to Ms. Hathaway, the awareness level of the program could be higher.
The next Social Butterfly session is slated to begin early next month at both the Castle Shannon and Coraopolis locations.
The Castle Shannon session begins Nov. 3 and will take place each Wednesday between 9:45 and 11 a.m. The Coraopolis session starts Nov. 5 and will take place on Fridays between 9:15 and 10:30 a.m.
Details: 412-884-4262, ext. 210 or visit www.earlylearninginstitute.org/social_butterflies.
First Published October 28, 2010 6:31 am
