Benji hard at work on the farm, focused and proud as he completes his tasks. Our First Visit to Windreach Farm When we first started volunteering at Windreach Farm back in 2018, we had no idea how deeply it would impact our lives. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was so inviting and welcoming that we instantly felt a connection, not only to the farm itself, but also to the people who make it so special. There’s an indescribable feeling that comes from belonging to a

Benji uses this ‘Need/Found’ picture card to indicate what he’s looking for or has found, helping him communicate independently. Each day starts with a small but meaningful routine for Benji. Before heading out, he takes time to gather everything he needs, from his backpack to the personal items that help him feel comfortable and prepared. This simple practice has become an important part of building his independence. With the support of picture cards, Benji is able to commun

Creating structure, smooth transitions, and predictability. In our work with Benji and Giulietta, we focus on building independence, predictability, and smooth transitions through structured routines and clear daily schedules. At the same time, their autonomy remains at the centre of everything we do. While we do use weekly schedules and set goals to guide our programming, these are not rigid or fixed. Instead, they serve as a flexible framework that helps create consistency

Encouraging and Maintaining Friendships We support Benji and Giulietta in building and maintaining meaningful friendships by creating regular opportunities for positive social experiences. We make sure to set up time for them to see their friends so that these relationships can grow and strengthen. During outings, we help them practice important social skills such as taking turns, sharing, starting conversations, and responding to their peers using their iPad or PECS binder w

Integrating Physical Activities into Daily Routines For Benji and Giulietta, movement is a natural part of their daily routine rather than something separate or forced. Each day includes some form of structured physical activity that is thoughtfully tailored to their individual strengths, interests, and energy levels. These activities aren’t fixed or rigid. Instead, they are observed and adjusted regularly to make sure they continue to feel enjoyable, effective, and encouragi

Supporting teamwork, planning, and following routines. Benji and Giulietta engage in collaborative meal preparation as a meaningful way to build teamwork, planning, and communication skills. During these activities, they practice important functional life skills while using their iPad or PECS binder to make a meal together. Meal preparation provides daily opportunities to make choices, follow directions, and take pride in contributing to a shared meal. Our goal is for Benji a

We make grocery shopping a fun, engaging, and educational for Benji and Giulietta, with a focus on building leadership, independence, and practical life skills. Grocery shopping is a meaningful real world activity that provides ongoing opportunities for Benji and Giulietta to build independence, communication, and life skills. By involving them in the process from planning to checkout, we intentionally turn a routine task into a shared learning experience. Each step encourage