“You exceeded my expectations and then some. What you are doing is beautiful.”
R. Clement, Director, ADAPT Community Network for Children with Special Needs, H.S.Gordon School, Bronx, NY
“All the classes loved you, regardless of ability level.”
Joy Weingarten, Director, ADAPT Community Network for Children with Special Needs, Queens, NY (STEM Residency)
SENSORY-FRIENDLY:
Play therapy & science-based residencies
David Engel brings creative play and vital educational enrichment activities directly into the special needs school, promoting social-emotional development and reducing stressors for pre-K, school-age children and young adults with physical challenges and Autism.
Programs commissioned by The ADAPT Community Network, NYC (Formerly United Cerebral Palsy)
Video: Teacher Testimonials
PLAY THERAPY RESIDENCY OVERVIEW
Each play therapy session is an immersive, participatory creative-dramatic experience based on recognizable themes kids LOVE: Pirates, Circus, Dinosaurs, Wizards, Safari, Superheroes, Ocean Explorers and more! One, two or three week residencies are available.
Each 25-minute session is essentially a stimulating, sensory-friendly show that includes stimulating movement & dance, magic, bubble-play, singalongs and antic slapstick comedy underscored with soothing music and cartoon-like sound effects.
Sessions occur directly in the classroom OR in a school’s gym/playroom with individual classes rotating in every ½ hour.
Special attention is also given to include teaching staff, caregivers, and OT providers in attendance. We specifically aim to integrate staff into our work, inviting their active participation. Staying involved and playing along enriches the staffs professional development and emotional well-being too!
SCIENCE RESIDENCY OVERVIEW
“Dr. Gravity’s Science Playroom!” is our science residency program designed to inspire, encourage, and educate Pre-K and school age children with special needs to the wonders of Earth sciences. One, two or three week residencies are available.
“Dr. Gravity’s Science Playroom!” is led by the affable and hilarious scientist character, Dr. Gravity, who presents various scientific concepts via collaborative “real world” challenges and activities (STEM). These hands-on experiments and entertaining demonstrations are carried out in a simple, controlled, and safe manner.
Each visit is effectively a 25-minute comic performance that integrates state-mandated science curriculum with therapeutic play, while scrupulously abiding by sensory-friendly protocols and ability-appropriate content. Sessions occur in a school’s gym or playroom with individual classes rotating in every ½ hour.
More Testimonials
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"You are a Master of Imagination, Fun, and Surprises!! You are able to “read” your audience and adapt your presentations to their capabilities. Each child was able to participate and enjoy, even some of the children who don’t do well with new people adjusted so fast. I was truly amazed by your versatility."
Beverly Ellman, Director, United Cerebral Palsy, Bronx Children’s Program, NY
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“Mr. Engel is a phenomenal performer. He is knowledgable and adapts well to this sensitive, diversified environment. His multimodal approach works extremely well with the needs of our population. He is an additional asset that brings joy to our program and we would love to have him continue his services.”
P. B. Jones, Lead Teacher, ADAPT, Bronx, NY
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“David Engel has been to our school several times in the past few years, he has performed a variety of different shows for the preschoolers in our school. Each and every show has been creative, unique and quite entertaining, yes even for the adults. I would highly recommend him to perform at any school or child's event.”
Ellen Sapienza Pre-school teacher, ADAPT, Midwood School, Brooklyn, NY
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“All of the shows are enjoyable and educational - incorporating music, movement, fun facts and just the right amount of silliness to keep my class of preschoolers (and the grownups) engaged!”
E. Green, Lead Teacher, ADAPT, O’Connor School, Brooklyn, NY
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“From the minute Captain Nemo opened the door with beautiful music playing and his helmet all lit up, you had the kids attention. I love how you incorporate smart banter, fun facts, magic and more! I have seen two shows so far this year and loved both.”
Robin J. Lead Teacher, ADAPT, O’Connor School, ADAPT, Brooklyn, NY
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“Bravo! This was an unforgettable show! The children really enjoyed the mysterious music, bubbles, magical light, pearl in an oyster, and especially your costume! It all gave them the chance to explore the wonderful underwater world. We can’t wait to see you again.”
Ms. N, Lead Teacher, ADAPT, O’Connor School, Brooklyn, NY