Introduction DCD
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a disorder associated with physical awkwardness and motor skills delay which is said to be present in 50% of students diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). The behavioural characteristics have been shown to have responded well to the active program in place at Robert Land Academy. Sports, activities, self-care and routine help to improve fine and gross motor skills and build self-confidence upon manageable building blocks of achievement. An active program with daily exercise and physical activity is conducive to addressing these needs in an effective and natural manner.
Other Disorders
High Functioning Asperger / High Functioning Autism / Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/ Executive Functioning Disorder
All of these conditions and their respective clusters of behaviour have been shown to respond to a process of normalization, structure, and consistent consequences that reinforce or discourage inappropriate or self-limiting behaviours. The daily routine, predictability and lack of external distractions associated with Robert Land Academy’s program all tend towards reducing such behaviours while encouraging coping mechanisms that enable students to focus on their areas of strength. Boys are carefully assessed during the interview process to assess individual suitability to the program. When it is felt that students’ needs exceed the program in place they are not admitted and where possible other suggested alternatives are made available to them to pursue.
Feedback
Here’s what the parent of a former student had to say about our ADHD school program.
Robert Land Academy
provides a highly structured motivating program that helps boys to focus their energies and abilities in a constructive self-affirming manner free from the numerous distractions that so often confuse and distract them.
The program has demonstrated success for over 40 years and produced a proven track record of responding to the needs of boys as they navigate through the turbulence of adolescence. Though supportive of the needs of all boys, it has also shown itself to be highly effective in dealing with those diagnosed with some learning and behavioral disabilities including ADHD.
The Robert Land Academy program encourages the growth of self- confidence, self-regulation and self-determination. By regaining control of themselves, they are better able to identify and pursue goals and realize ambitions as they approach graduation and the prospect of adulthood.