Using HeadSprout Early Reading with a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An examination of phonological awareness, participant engagement, and participant enjoyment

This study examined the effectiveness of a 9-week reading program in improving the phonological awareness (PA) skills of a seven year old boy with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). The study’s secondary goal was to describe how the participant engaged with and enjoyed the HeadSprout computer program. The participant attended a one hour reading program incorporating 30 minutes of HeadSprout Early Reading three days a week for 9 weeks. Results demonstrated that the participant’s PA scores increased from the 16th percentile at pre-test to the 35th percentile post program. Four of five measures of PA increased, segmenting nonwords decreased to the 2nd percentile post program. Momentary time sampling procedures revealed the participant was engaged with the computer program 94.5% of the time. Perceived ratings of enjoyment indicated the participant enjoyed using the program. Specific components of the program which may have influenced participant enjoyment and engagement are discussed. Study limitations and implications of these findings are discussed in reference to future research.

Destigmatizing Child and Adolescent Mental Health through Group Chat: A Workshop to Support the Emotional and Social Needs of Youth

The purpose of this project was to raise awareness surrounding child and adolescent mental health in an effort to reduce preconceived stigmas in relation to this specialized field. This project presented a literature review of the current state of child and adolescent mental health in Canada today, including the prevalence and several treatment options for young people confronting mental health challenges. Consideration of the powerful role of the education system upon youth with mental health issues became evident, specifically regarding early identification and prevention. A needs assessment was conducted to gather feedback from the clinical practitioners of a Section 23 classroom within a Southern Ontario hospital. This assessment was used to develop an informational and pedagogical workshop resource to extend practitioner understanding of this pertinent issue and support the social and emotional needs of young people confronting mental heath challenges. Results of the assessment indicated the significant need for such a workshop resource, and these responses were used to guide the development of Group Chat: A Workshop to Support the Emotional and Social Needs of Youth. The latter was subsequently presented to participants, whereby evaluative questionnaires indicated the efficacy and usefulness of this workshop resource to both practitioners and students alike.

Photograph - Robert Band as a child, cowboy outfit

Black and white photograph, 49 cm x 29 cm, of Robert Band as a child dressed in a cowboy outfit,

Photograph - Robert Band as a child, pond

Black and white photograph, 39 cm x 26 cm, of Robert Band as a child. The background is a pond and garden setting.

Photograph - Robert Band as a child

Black and white photograph, 31 cm x 26 cm, of Robert Band as a child [backdrop appears to be the Niagara River Parkway].

Photograph - Hamilton Killaly Woodruff with a Child on Rocking Horse

Black and white photograph, 16 cm x 11 ½ cm, of Hamilton Killaly Woodruff with a young child [Charles Woodruff Band?]. The child is sitting on a rocking horse and Hamilton is standing watching the child with his hat in one hand and his cane in the other.

Photograph - Robert DeVeaux Woodruff Band as a child

Black and white circular photograph, 14 cm, of Robert Band as a young child. This is a head and shoulders photograph.

Photograph - Robert DeVeaux Woodruff Band as a child with Teddy Bear

Black and white circular photograph, 14 cm, of Robert Band as a young child holding a teddy bear. This is a head and shoulders photograph.

Photograph - Robert DeVeaux Woodruff Band as a child in floral frame

Black and white photograph, 4 cm x 3 ½ cm, of Robert Band as a young child. This photograph is encased in a floral frame with a brass back. The back of the photo is inscribed with “Robert D. W. Band”.

Photograph - Man, Woman and Child walking

A photograph of a man and woman (possibly Percy and Margaret Band) walking with the child in winter attire.

Photograph - Woman with a small Child

A photograph of a woman in front of a garage or barn door with a small child.

Photograph - Young Child

A photograph of a small child leaning on an ottoman.

Photograph - Young Child #2

A photograph of a young child sitting on a cushion and posed.

Photograph - Charles W. Band, Jessie Shaw Band and a child sitting on the Steps of a House

A photograph of Charles W. Band, Jessie Shaw Band , and a child sitting together on the steps of a house.

Photograph - Man and Child Swimming

A photograph of a man and child swimming together in a lake.