Classroom 14

Room 14 is a school-age, self-contained classroom ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 2. We utilize techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (individual visual schedules, individual instruction, least to most prompting, forward and backward chaining, and task analysis) throughout our school day to assist in the acquisition and generalization of academic and social skills. In addition to these skills, there is also a large focus on developing self-regulation skills and coping skills. Other curriculum strategies such as Handwriting Without Tears and Touch Math, as well as music and arts and crafts, are infused to help enhance and individualize our program. 

In this classroom, we learn together, we grow together, and we support one another. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every mistake is a step toward success.
Megan Defiores
Megan DeFiores
Substitute Teacher, BCBA

Recently in Room 14...

A Special 100th Day & Valentine’s Celebration!2.14.25

Today, our room had a fantastic opportunity to showcase their 100th Day Parade once again—this time for parents and family members who came in to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

The students were so excited to share this special event with their loved ones. With all the practice they’ve had from their previous parade around the building, their confidence and enthusiasm truly shined. They proudly marched in their costumes, showing off the projects they worked so hard on.

It was a wonderful way to celebrate two milestones at once—honoring their 100th day of school while also spreading love and joy on Valentine’s Day. We are so proud of them for their hard work and excitement, and we loved seeing the smiles on the faces of their families!

100 Links Long! 2.13.25

To celebrate the 100th day of school, we worked together to create a giant paper chain with 100 links! The students were hands-on in every step of the process—cutting strips, using staplers (with help from teachers), and carefully linking them together. It was a great way to practice fine motor skills, teamwork, and counting.

Once the chain was complete, we counted all 100 links to make sure they got it just right. Then, Megan, our teacher, stood on a chair and held it up high to show the students that their creation was even taller than they were! Their excitement and sense of accomplishment were priceless.

What a fun and engaging way to celebrate 100 days of learning and growing together!  

R.14’s 100th Day Parade – A Celebration to Remember! 2.12.25

Last week, our class marked the 100th day of school with a fantastic parade—something we couldn’t have done in our old building! Thanks to our spacious new layout, our kiddos proudly marched around the square-shaped hallway, while other classrooms and staff lined up to cheer them on.

The students put great effort into their 100th-day costumes and projects, and their excitement was contagious! From the proud smiles to the joyful energy, it was a wonderful way to celebrate this milestone together. We are so proud of our class for making this day extra special!

Lunar New Year Celebration! 1.28.24

Today, our class brought the spirit of Lunar New Year to our school with a special parade around the building! The students have been learning about this festive holiday, exploring its traditions, and creating beautiful flags to carry during their parade.

Dressed with their handmade flags and full of excitement, Room 14ers walked proudly through the halls, sharing the joy and color of the celebration with everyone they passed. This activity was a fun way to mark the occasion but also a meaningful opportunity to learn about cultural traditions and express creativity.

We are so proud of our learners for their enthusiasm and effort in honoring Lunar New Year and sharing this special experience with the school community!

Mark your calendars because next Thursday we’re going to have a Hundred Days Parade!

R.14 Christmas Party

12.20.24 Our Classroom Holiday Party

We celebrated the holidays with our family members who were able to come out yesterday! We enjoyed our favorite treats and time together!  Thank you to everyone who was with us!

Crossroads Spirit Week pdf  

Help us celebrate!

12.11.2024 We are using the Touch Math curriculum, and everyone is making gains. This curriculum is very hands-on and allows each learner to move along at his/her own pace. It’s also got a lot of research behind it showing its effectiveness with students of all different abilities. Here we are working hard in our Math group!

11.26.24 We love science and sensory types of experiments in our classroom! Today we had fun with a bubble bouncing experiment, and then with sensory rice trays. The kids enjoy activities that they can interact and engage in with their hands and bodies.  

11.3.24 These school-aged students are learning valuable independence skills by making their own PB&J sandwiches—a fun and practical activity that helps them build confidence and skills they can use at home! We’re incredibly grateful to our generous grantors, whose support makes moments like these possible.

10.24.24

In our school-age classroom, students are working on their social skills amidst concepts and academics, and art and science experiments provide the perfect opportunity to engage side by side. As they create, they model behaviors like sharing materials, respecting each other’s space, and offering encouragement. Through creative and experiential processes, they not only express themselves but also build relationships and learn how to collaborate, fostering connection and respect among peers.

10.15.24 Social Skills Development

This classroom is making great strides in a variety of developmental areas, but one thing that truly stands out is their social skills. The progress is evident in moments like when we catch three classmates walking in from the playground, hand in hand, or pushing each other on the swings with joyful smiles. These connections are priceless, as they not only strengthen friendships but also help the children build confidence in interacting with others. We’re so proud of the ways they’re learning to support and engage with one another, and we have some heartwarming pictures to share of these special moments! Thanks to Ms. Taylor for these great pics. 

9.16.24 Our class is off to a great start! We are learning so much and part of that is learning to sit in a group for lessons and activities. Check out this peek into our room with Ms. Debby leading an ELA lesson. 

Playground

9/6/24  The kids are back in action at the new school, and their excitement is contagious as they play on the playground once again—something they missed over the summer due to the move. Just look at these smiles in the photos!

Playground r.14

7.8.24 Independence is growing.

Check out our students playing independently with toys, something that used to require prompting to continue and to stay attentive to. Here they are totally engaged. Yes, their dedicated teaching team is right there to support and encourage them when needed, but how great it is to see independence growing. 

7.5.24 Splashing into Summer Fun at Crossroads

One of the favorite activities of summer at Crossroads Center for Children is waterplay. This beloved activity provides children with a refreshing way to cool off during the hot summer days while offering numerous opportunities for learning and growth.

Waterplay is so much fun, and it’s a chance for our students to develop essential life skills. Changing clothes independently is a key focus, encouraging self-sufficiency and confidence. Transitioning to another space, such as moving from the classroom to the outdoor waterplay area, helps children practice smooth transitions and adaptability.

Being outside offers a wonderful sensory experience and allows students to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Staying with the group during waterplay fosters a sense of community and belonging, reinforcing social skills and cooperation.

At Crossroads, we believe in turning every activity into a learning experience, and waterplay is a perfect example. It’s a splash-tastic way for our students to enjoy summer while building important skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Smiles and Laughter: The Journey of Social and Communication Skills 6.7.24

We are delighted to share a heartwarming story from our classrooms, showcasing the transformative power of individualized learning and the incredible progress our students have made.

At the beginning of the school year, working and playing with others was a significant goal for many of our students. In our classroom in particular, friends faced challenges in social interactions and communication. With the dedicated support of our skilled team and the use of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), these students embarked on a journey toward achieving their goals.

Fast forward to today, and the classroom is filled with smiles and laughter during game time. Children who once struggled to engage with their peers are now playing together, sharing joy and laughter. This progress is a testament to the effectiveness of individualized learning plans tailored to each child’s unique needs and interests.