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At Risk Youth Programs Level The Playing Field

By Juliette Cruz


It has long been recognized that certain children stand more of a chance at failing, academically and in life skills. This has brought about a surge of at risk youth programs. These are sometimes government funded, and sometimes funded by private sectors. Many programs work to help with academic skills. Some are designed to keep kids off the streets after school when there is no adult at home.

Infants as young as a few weeks old may be identified and qualify for intervention. This is usually provided to those infants with severe physical and cognitive disabilities who can be easily identified at an early age. It is more intended to help the parent learn how to stimulate their baby. It may also include physical therapy, helping the parent understand how to carry out the therapy on a daily basis.

Preschool intervention starts at age three. They have specific criteria for qualifying for this free program. It is a program for preschoolers who have a significant degree of physical or cognitive deficits. These interventions are designed to help the child develop to the level of which they are capable. Some develop to the point they are able to enter the general education program at kindergarten or first grade level. Others will continue to require special services, but will still get a better chance with this early intervention.

Additional activities are often provided by community agencies and parent support groups. These activities are geared toward providing social interactions and parental support. The often have special sports leagues for those with disabilities. They also offer holiday events that are very similar to those that non-handicapped children enjoy. They are able to enjoy Easter egg hunts, Christmas celebrations and such with others with capabilities similar to theirs.

More academic interventions are provided to the school age child. These include tutoring offered free by the school and special aides hired from funds provided by special grants. These aides offer in-class assistance and special one-on-one help in short sessions of pulling them out. Their intervention is an attempt to help the child achieve more academic success.

After school interventions are also offered at this age level. The activities are usually provided by community organizations who have won grants for funding. They provide such things as after school care, tutors, and homework helpers. Field trips are offered to give the child access to community activities.

Organized sports and special interest clubs are some of the after school activities provided to the older student. They continue to receive tutoring and help with homework. Field trips are provided to expose them to opportunities in the community. Life skills are learned through the provided organized team sports.

In order to give all children as nearly the same playing field as possible, it is necessary to have at risk youth programs. Whether these are provided by schools, government agencies, private sectors, or volunteers, they are essential to help these children have equal opportunities. With the socioeconomic status of many families, there is a great need for these interventions to prevent the cycle of poverty being repeated.




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