At Harbor School, we are committed to nurturing the potential of our students. We believe that empowering independence is essential to help our students lead fulfilling lives and reach their fullest potential. We achieve this through comprehensive life skills training, equipping our students with the tools to navigate various aspects of daily life confidently. Here are some ways in which the Harbor School curriculum empowers independence in our students.
Personal Care Skills
Personal care skills are fundamental to enhancing self-reliance and promoting a sense of dignity in students with special needs. At Harbor School, we prioritize teaching students essential personal care skills, such as grooming, dressing, and hygiene practices. By developing these skills, students can gain confidence in taking care of themselves independently, fostering greater self-esteem and social integration.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for building meaningful relationships and navigating the world around us. For students with special needs, communication skills training is even more vital. At Harbor School, we provide individualized support to help students express themselves clearly and confidently through verbal communication, sign language, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. These skills empower students to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings, leading to improved social interactions and a greater sense of belonging.
Social Skills
Social skills are essential for forming connections and participating in various social situations. At Harbor School, our students engage in structured activities and group sessions that focus on developing social skills, including active listening, empathy, turn-taking, and conflict resolution. These experiences allow students to learn and practice essential social behaviors in a safe and supportive environment, preparing them to interact effectively with peers and members of the community.
Daily Living Skills
Mastering daily living skills is crucial for achieving independence and participating in everyday activities. Our life skills training at Harbor School encompasses various daily living skills, such as meal preparation, grocery shopping, and money management. Students learn to handle practical tasks confidently, enabling them to contribute to their households and communities, thereby fostering a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.
Vocational Skills
As students with special needs transition into adulthood, the acquisition of vocational skills becomes a key focus at Harbor School. We offer vocational training tailored to individual abilities and interests, preparing students for future employment opportunities. Our vocational programs include job readiness training, career exploration, and on-the-job experiences. By providing our students with these skills, we aim to enhance their employment prospects and help them lead fulfilling and meaningful lives once they transition out of our educational environment.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Building problem-solving and decision-making skills is essential for students to face challenges and make informed choices in their lives. At Harbor School, we incorporate problem-solving exercises and decision-making simulations into our curriculum. These activities encourage students to think critically, analyze situations, and develop effective strategies for overcoming obstacles, thus fostering autonomy and resilience.
At Harbor School, we understand that empowering independence is a journey that requires comprehensive life skills training. By offering varying life skills, including personal care, communication, socialization, daily living, vocational, and problem-solving skills, we aim to equip our students with special needs with the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of life. Through our holistic approach, we celebrate each student’s unique abilities and guide them toward fulfilling their potential, enabling them to lead enriched and independent lives. If you want your child to experience the transformative power of life skills training, join Harbor School, and be part of a supportive community that believes in the power of empowerment for every student.
Harbor School a private special education school in Monmouth County, New Jersey
Our mission at Harbor School is to help all of our special needs students with learning, social, language, behavioral, and other disabilities. Our highly skilled staff are committed daily to helping each student reach their full potential.
We would be more than happy to discuss your child's specific needs and challenges, so please call us at 732.544.9394, or request a tour at Harbor School in Eatontown, NJ. We are located just minutes off of the Garden State Parkway at exit 105 and conveniently located off of Route 35 and Route 36 in Monmouth County, NJ.
Amy Brandon,
Principal-Harbor School, Eatontown, NJ