This hands-on class will offer simple STEAM-based projects using a variety of media including Lego builds, science projects, and art creations.  Each class hour will be a stand-alone lesson suitable for ages 8 and up.
   
The cooperative nature of the class will seek to pair developmentally delayed students with neurodivergent or neurotypical students capable of being a peer mentor.  One thing I have noticed about some of our neurodivergent students who have struggled socially is that they have deep empathy for others who struggle.  They are often not inhibited in interacting with special needs students who may have significant delays or other more obvious challenges.   I think peer mentoring could be of benefit both to the high-functioning mentors and to our most challenged students who will need the extra help and often have very little opportunity to interact with peers.

The other cooperative aspect will be to pair neurodivergent students together to assist each other and potentially build organic friendships while also building knowledge.  I often have parents who come to me seeking answers for neurodivergent children who are lonely and friendless and it is heartbreaking.  We know that friendship has to develop organically so the hope is that this class could be a platform from which friendships could spring for socially challenged students.

This class will have limited opportunities for neurotypical students who have a desire to come alongside neurodivergent students to create a supportive team to complete projects.

This class will also need adult volunteers/parents to monitor and support all students as needed.

This class will take place outside under the giant tent at The Crossing.