I cannot say enough wonderful things about Building Connections, Mrs. Chris, and her entire staff! We met Mrs. Chris in 2018 when my autistic son was 4. He barely spoke, had significant developmental delays and serious food aversion issues.
I started by sending him to afternoon social skill groups at Building Connections. That parlayed into Farm Camp, Summer Camps, and private itinerate services. My child warmed up to Mrs. Chris and her staff fairly quickly. She would come to school and help him through the parts of the days where he struggled most (circle time, assembly gatherings, potty training). He went from being a 5 yo in the 3 yo classroom to TK with the support of Building Connections.
My son struggled immensely with potty training and haircuts. Mrs. Chris got him to do both (this is nothing short of a miracle, mind you)!
During the 2020 school year, we did the entire year virtually. OT online was negative fun for me. Mrs. Suzann came to our home once a week and assisted with the online OT, and also worked with getting my son over many food aversions. Again, another difficult feat that I could not have done on my own.
I have also used BC for IEP services, which was a huge help and comfort knowing that I had an advocate to help navigate that process. I had a rough time for years battling with WCPSS on his placement and what services he needed. Mrs. Chris got that ironed out for me and I just had his IEP meeting in late October (2021) that went wonderfully! Thanks to BC, I knew what questions to ask and was comfortable enough to do it on my own.
Just recently, I had signed my son up for a day camp on a teacher workday at BC. When I told him, he said, “Mom, I think I’m OK. I’m making friends all on my own now”. His teachers, service providers, and principal all said that was true, and he’s rocking first grade like a champion!
I know that we’re going to come across new challenges as he gets older. It’s such a comforting feeling to know we have trusted and successful support at Building Connections! Mrs. Chris, Mrs. Sarah, and Mrs. Suzann have been so helpful, kind, loving, and supportive to my entire family. I cannot be more grateful!