Welcome to Good Friend Inc.
As of 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting that 1% of children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism. These children, as any others, need good friends. Children with autism are in our mainstream and inclusive classrooms, and their typically-developing peers aren’t well-prepared.
Disability harassment and bullying caught the attention of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) in 2000, prompting them to issue a“Dear Colleague” letter. In this bulletin, the DOE suggests “creating a campus environment that is aware of disability concerns and sensitive to disability harassment” and “weaving these issues into the curriculum.”
Good Friend’s mission is to create autism awareness, teach acceptance of differences, and foster empathy among typically-developing peers.
By using positive stories, interactive exercises, and reinforcing good friend behavior through our novel K-8 curriculum, we intend to enhance the educational and social experience for all students. Our hope is that we’ll provide this generation of children with the tools to build a better foundation for their place in a cooperative society. Our two films (one for elementary school and the other for middle school), which are the cornerstones of our programming, are now available on DVD. Contact Chelsea Budde or Denise Schamens today to schedule your Peer Sensitivity Workshop (grades K-5), Individual Classroom Presentation (grades 6-8), general assembly, staff in-service (including workshops for early childhood/child care providers), and/or guest lecture.