Bridge the Gap Learning Center provides MindWorks with stations for use by students with learning disabilities and differences. This innovative space is available to students as a “warm-up” or “cool-down” before or after their one-on-one language or math intervention sessions.
What?
MindWorks consists of 7 stations that target different domains of learning. Each station utilizes evidence based curriculum and materials. Through a series of multi-sensory activities, students review materials, develop gross and fine motor skills, activate and regulate the nervous system, participate in cognitive challenges, and have FUN!
Who?
MindWorks is available free of charge to all students enrolled in intervention services at Bridge the Gap Learning Center, Inc. A coach is available to assist with the stations. Coaches are staff or trained volunteers. Parents are encouraged to participate so that they can replicate similar learning strategies at home to increase retention.
When?
Students can choose to participate before or after their intervention sessions. Each station should last at least 5 minutes. Students will earn points for each 5 minute station. By completing all the stations, students will earn points toward monthly rewards.
How?
Stations and Supporting Materials
- Gross Motor- exercises for midline, balance, core strength, and coordination
- Fine Motor- activities that strengthen hand muscles, increase hand-eye coordination, and reduce writing fatigue.
- Math- Math Facts, Numeracy, Fluency
- Phonological Awareness- multisensory training to systemically build recognition of phonemes, syllables, rhymes, and words.
- Sight Words- a gradual increase in sight word recognition, spelling, and use accompanied by large motor movement and visual cues.
- Listening Skills- listening to select music while enjoying a fine motor art activity to improve concentration and auditory discrimination.
- Memory and Cognitive Acuity- Puzzles, memory games, matching, sorting, and mental challenges to build memory and thinking skills.
Why?
- Students who are calm & engaged will be ready for learning during their one-on-one interventions.
- Repetition of materials accompanied by movement increases retention.
- Short, engaging activities provide success to students who are anxious and defeated due to past educational experiences.
- Fun activities and rewards are motivating and encourage the executive function of planning to reach future goals.
- Evidence based curriculum helps students learn content that they have missed in the past.
- Parent participation empowers parents to recreate educational experiences at home to further learning progress.
