Celebrating Disability Pride Month: Honoring the Contributions of All

July is Disability Pride Month, a time to honor the diversity, strength, and resilience of individuals with disabilities. This month-long celebration aims to challenge societal attitudes, dismantle ableist stereotypes, and promote a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, is valued and respected. Disability Pride Month traces its origins to the Americans with […]

Sensory-Friendly Fourth of July Celebrations for Families with Autistic Individuals

Celebrating the Fourth of July can be a fun experience for families, but for those with autistic individuals, it is important to consider activities that minimize sensory overload and sensitivities. Here is a list of suggestions to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable celebration: Plan Ahead Create a Schedule: Outline the day’s activities, providing clear expectations. […]

Introducing Shrub Oak International School’s New Diploma Camp

Shrub Oak International School is proud to announce the successful launch of our innovative Diploma Camp, a program designed to foster community and promote social interaction among our high school students and students transitioning into the high school program. Recognizing the importance of social development alongside academic growth, Diploma Camp provides our students with an […]

 Shrub Oak International School’s New Partnership with the Neurodiversity Employment Network

Shrub Oak International School is thrilled to announce our new partnership with the Neurodiversity Employment Network, an initiative aimed at fostering meaningful employment opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. This collaboration aligns with one of Shrub Oak’s priorities which is to help our students become as independent as possible and underscores our commitment to preparing our students […]

Autism Friendly Destinations on the East Coast

Planning summer travel with your family? Consider these autism-friendly summer destinations on the East Coast! Orlando, Florida Walt Disney World: Offers Disability Access Service (DAS) for guests with disabilities, including autism. Universal Orlando Resort: Provides Universal’s Attraction Assistance Pass to accommodate guests who may not be able to wait in standard queues. Hershey, Pennsylvania Hersheypark: […]

Announcing the New Student-Run Pokémon Club at Shrub Oak International School

Shrub Oak International School is excited to announce the launch of our new, student-run Pokémon Club. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive, engaging, and supportive community for our students. The club is designed to offer a dynamic and interactive platform for students to explore their interests, develop social skills, and engage in […]

Exploring the Relationship Between Autism and Gaming

Gaming has emerged as a significant interest among autistic individuals, offering unique opportunities for social interaction, skill development, and cognitive engagement. Gaming can provide a structured environment where autistic individuals can thrive, thanks to the clear rules, predictable outcomes, and the ability to focus intensely on areas of interest. Video games, in particular, allow for […]

The Importance of Family Involvement in Residential Schools

Family involvement is crucial in residential schools, particularly for students with autism, as it significantly enhances the educational and developmental outcomes of these students. Active engagement of family members not only fosters a supportive environment but also bridges the gap between home and school, creating a cohesive and holistic approach to the student’s growth. At […]

Cooking Classes: Building Skills and Confidence for Autistic Students

Cooking classes play a crucial role in the holistic development of autistic students, offering a wide array of benefits that extend beyond the kitchen. Engaging in cooking activities provides autistic individuals with essential life skills, fostering independence, and enhancing their cognitive and motor abilities. The process of cooking requires following instructions, measuring ingredients, and managing […]

Autism-friendly Movies

Consider checking out these films and shows to watch with your family! These films feature autistic characters, provide sensory-friendly viewing experiences, and/or have themes that resonate with autistic individuals. The Disney and Pixar selections are popular on our campus! Temple Grandin (2010) This biographical drama portrays the life of Temple Grandin, an autistic woman who […]