April Newsletter
Non-Profit Community Impact Program
Success Story
Overcoming Challenges: A Success Story of Graduating from our ABA Program
Once upon a time, there was a little boy named Alex who faced unique challenges in his journey towards personal development. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Alex's parents embarked on a quest to find the best possible support for their child. After much research and consideration, they discovered the transformative power of Partners In Learning’s Inclusive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

Alex struggled to express needs and emotions. The world seemed overwhelming, and social interactions were daunting. However, with dedicated therapists and a supportive family, Alex began his journey towards growth and progress.
PIL Professional Tip of the Month
How to promote communication and social engagement through play by Alana Iannello, Director of ABA Services.
Best practices show that social motivation should be addressed through play routines that build reciprocity and engagement with another person.

How to establish a play routine:
  • Start with your child’s preferred items/activities
  • Look for joint attention.
  • Be silly!!  
  • Identify and reward communication behaviors such as looking, pointing, approaching, reaching, handing items 

Considerations for Play:
  • Place yourself in “center stage” to capture your child’s attention
  • Continue to monitor your child’s responses to play
  • Give a little, then wait for your child to approach or request 
  • Reward your child’s attempts at communication!

What makes a good play partner?
  • Be enthusiastic! It’s your job to sell your child on how fun the activity can be. The toy/activity should be more fun with you than without you.
  • Build suspense and anticipation for social activities
  • Trial and error: try different modifications to play. If one play theme isn’t motivating, try try again!
  • Don’t be afraid to be silly! Make funny faces and silly noises to promote engagement and joint attention. 
In The News
Partners In Learning hosts Special Needs Mini-Conference
"Partners In Learning is presenting its Special Needs Mini-Conference, a comprehensive event designed to equip educators, families and caregivers with the knowledge and resources to support individuals with special needs."
Community Connections
Partners In Learning was invited to speak at the Civitan of Salisbury on our Autism Program. Alana Iannello, Director of ABA program at Partners In Learning shared staggering stats on the increased prevalence of Autism and how Partners In Learning's unique approach to ABA therapy is making a huge difference in the lives of children.
Partners In Learning was also invited to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st with the Salisbury Civitan. In attendance were individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. Partners In Learning was thrilled to be part of this celebration as current and alumni families joined us to celebrate all that individuals with Down Syndrome can accomplish. 
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Acknowledgement
Employee Partner of the Month
Many of our staff have dedicated the majority of their career to Partners In Learning. This month we recognize Diana Aldridge who is one of our early intervention specialists!
Volunteers of the Month
Many parents and community members have dedicated their personal time to support Partners In Learning. This month we recognize: Konnor Karriker and Mark Honeycutt.
PARTNERS IN LEARNING
Woods Site: 1775 S. MLK Jr. Ave, Salisbury
Novant Site: 519 Best St., Salisbury
Partnering with families and communities to promote the development of all children through early care, education, intervention, and family support services.