Aspire After-School
The Aspire after-school program is offered in Needham and is
open to all students with developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum
disorders, from area elementary, middle and high schools, regardless of their
place of residence. Children range in
age from 7-22. Aspire follows the
Needham Public Schools calendar.
The program includes:
- Sports
- Music therapy
- Arts and crafts
- Cooking
- Computer use
- Homework assistance
The primary goal of Aspire is to encourage children and
young adults to recognize and strengthen their abilities while having fun with
friends in a recreational environment.
Staff includes professional program coordinators, as well as
college and high school recreation aides.
Many middle and high school students volunteer in Aspire, making it
truly inclusive.
Hours are from 3 pm to 5:30 pm and registration and fee are required. For additional information, please contact: Renee Scherer 781-972-1079 or at rscherer@charlesrivercenter.org
School Vacation Programs
Family Support offers recreational programs in December,
February, April, June and August so that children and young adults have the
opportunity to socialize and participate in recreational activities when
schools are closed.
Programs include:
- Indoor and outdoor games
- Sports
- Music therapy
- Dance
- Art
- Field trips
School vacation programs run
from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Registration and fee are required. The program is staffed by Charles River personnel, as well as college and high school students -- all trained in CPR and First Aid.
Social Recreation Programs - Natick
Located in our Natick facility, Charles River currently offers
social and recreation programs and on Saturdays. These include:
- Fitness fun
- Artistic afternoons
- Girls group
- Sibling outings
- Family craft night
- Avenues to Adulthood (school vacation weeks only)
- Volunteer day
Kid's Break Saturdays
Held in Needham, this is a Saturday afternoon recreational
program for children 7 and older, allowing them to socialize and have fun. Children are engaged in activities such as bowling, music, field trips and art.
The hours are from 12:30 – 3:30 pm. Registration and fee are required.