Training The TrainerThe next big step was when Liz went to the Option Institute in America to do the start up program. There they taught her the concepts of the SON-RISE program and the basics of home schooling/tutoring. When she got back we started to put into action what she had learned, we built a special therapy room where she does her learning, and with the help of volunteers, specially trained therapists, the MINDA association and other support groups, Isa is moving ahead in leaps and bounds. Other activities which she also has participated in and loves doing are:

• Swimming – RAPID Swim, Gators swimming, WAPID swim and school swimming lessons
• Music therapy – she now loves listening to music at home and in the car as well.
• SAMONAS auditory therapy.
• Kinder gym – when she was a tot.
• Playgroups – quite a few over the years.
• Occupational therapy – professional and at school.
• Speech therapy – professional and at school.
• Visits to shopping centres, and many other everyday activities.
• Gepps Cross Velodrome cycling for disabled program.
• Horse Riding for Disabled program
• Tennis SA tennis for tuition for persons with special needs.
• Premier Reading challenge – has won awards and has read up to 180 books in 2009 alone!

Ever since Isy began “full time” school she has only attended four days a week, the one day off from school she is home tutored with a variety of tutors including, Liz, University students studying – (Psychology, Occupational therapy, Speech therapy and Disability studies), ABA trained therapists, and dad – (mainly through providing computer based tutoring like Powerpoint flash cards with sound etc).