#United States #autism education #Shrub Oak #Mohegan Lake #Culinary Program

Shrub Oak International School Unveils Renovated Kitchen

In a remarkable move towards enhancing the culinary experience for its students, Shrub Oak International School has proudly completed renovations on its kitchen, designed specifically to meet the diverse nutritional, sensory, and developmental needs of children, adolescents, and young adults on the autism spectrum. The updated kitchen is more than just a space for meal preparation; it is a versatile learning environment that prepares students for greater culinary independence and future career opportunities.

A Kitchen Tailored for Individual Needs

The newly designed kitchen optimizes how the school provides meals, tailoring them to a range of dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, halal, allergen-free, low-sugar, and different texture preferences. This carefully thought-out design takes the sensory profiles of students into account, which can often complicate mealtime experiences. Chef Patrick Hickey, who has overseen the renovation and has over 30 years of experience in culinary management, emphasizes the importance of understanding the students' specific culinary needs:
"Our team collaborates closely with families and students to ascertain not just their nutritional requirements but also how sensory sensitivities and routines shape their dining experiences," he states.
With tailored meal preparations, Hickey aims to ensure that mealtimes are safe, familiar, and enjoyable, prioritizing an environment where every student can thrive.

Emphasizing Sensory-Friendly Dining

Understanding that mealtimes represent complex sensory occasions, the renovated kitchen is structured to support diverse needs:

• - Meals are prepared to match preferred textures, ranging from soft and crunchy to blended and smooth.
• - Sensitivities to taste, odor, temperature, and presentation are meticulously addressed.
• - Culturally and medically essential diets are recognized and implemented.
• - Students are provided with predictable meal routines and familiar foods while being gently introduced to new culinary items.
• - For those with restrictive eating behaviors or anxiety related to meals, individualized support is offered.

These customized approaches aim to help autistic students feel more in control, making mealtime an enjoyable and fulfilling part of their day.

Creating a Learning Environment for Independence

Not only is the kitchen a hub for nutritious meal preparation, but it also serves as a fundamental educational space. Students benefit from participating in structured culinary activities, where they can practice essential skills under guided supervision. Here, they learn:

• - Basic meal preparation, including safe food handling and kitchen hygiene.
• - Organizational and sequencing skills to aid task completion and understand workplace routines.

By providing hands-on experiences in the kitchen, the program boosts confidence, independence, and crucial life skills necessary for future employment. Hickey highlights the transformative impact of this learning method: "Hands-on learning is vital for our students. By allowing them to engage in a supportive kitchen setting, we foster skills that can lead to rewarding career opportunities."

About Shrub Oak International School

The mission of Shrub Oak International School is rooted in the desire to enhance the lives of autistic youth through individualized education that focuses on strengths and interests. The school encourages meaningful relationships while empowering students to navigate their communities and maximize their potential.
The Pines at Shrub Oak, a specialized program on the school's campus, addresses additional therapeutic needs for adolescents requiring psychiatric support.
Accredited by notable organizations such as the National Independent Private Schools Association (NIPSA) and the Middle States Association Commission, Shrub Oak International School strives for excellence in autism education.
To learn more about the impactful work done at Shrub Oak International School, visit www.shruboak.org.