Havern has truly transformed our lives. Before our child started kindergarten there, we learned of a rare genetic syndrome causing developmental delays. At that time, we weren’t sure what school would look like, but we knew one thing for sure—we wanted our child to be happy. Now, three years later, we couldn’t be more grateful for Havern. Watching her grow academically and socially has been incredible. She is reading, learning math, exploring science and computers, and, most importantly, she is genuinely excited to go to school each day. The commute is an hour each way, but it’s been worth every mile.

Starting the day with sensory play, like therapy balls, weighted blankets, or tactile bins, offers neurodivergent students crucial support in regulating their sensory systems, improving focus, and reducing anxiety. Research shows that sensory-rich activities stimulate the brain's readiness to learn by calming the nervous system and increasing emotional regulation. Schools that prioritize morning sensory play and occupational therapy, such as Havern, provide a unique and personalized approach to learning, helping students with sensory processing disorder (SPD), autism, and ADHD thrive academically and socially by addressing their sensory needs first thing in the morning.

As parents, we all want to ensure that our children receive the best education possible, one that not only challenges them academically but also supports their social, emotional, and mental health needs. Recognizing the signs that your child’s current school isn’t meeting these needs is the first step towards finding a solution. Here at Havern School, we understand these challenges and offer guidance on what to look out for and how to proceed if your child's school is falling short.

As a parent, it can be challenging when you know therapy could benefit your child, but they resist or feel apprehensive about attending sessions. This can lead to stressful mornings and a sense of frustration on both sides. However, there are ways to help your child view therapy in a more positive light. Below, we provide tips tailored for each developmental stage, from kindergarten through eighth grade, to help your child embrace therapy as a supportive and beneficial part of their growth.

Explore the significant benefits of low student-to-teacher ratios in our latest blog post, "The Science of Small: The Benefits of Low Student-to-Teacher Ratios at Havern School." Discover how personalized attention and tailored education contribute to better outcomes and a nurturing environment for neurodivergent students. Dive deeper into our approach and see why small class sizes make a big difference. Join us for a group tour every Wednesday at 10 AM to experience our unique educational setting firsthand.

Spring break is just around the corner, and it's a wonderful opportunity for some quality family time and exploration. Denver is a city brimming with activities that cater to children of all abilities, including our neurodivergent students. Here are some ideas for a fun-filled spring break in Denver that your whole family can enjoy.

Learn how Havern, an independent 501(c)(3) school, relies on grants, donations, and community support to provide a tailored and inclusive education. Understand the importance of financial backing in creating individualized learning plans, employing specialized educators, and developing innovative programs. Join us in supporting the mission to empower neurodiverse students and celebrate their differences!

Navigating the "alphabet soup" of neurodiversity can be daunting, but understanding these acronyms is crucial for fostering empathy, inclusion, and support within the community.

In this blog post, we'll explore some essential questions to ask during parent-teacher conferences for your neurodiverse learner. From understanding their participation in class to discussing support strategies, these questions will help you gain a deeper understanding of your child's school experience and how you can enhance their learning journey.

At Havern School, we believe in empowering our students to understand and embrace their neurodiversity, equipping them with the tools they need to thrive both in school and in their community. A shining example of this is our 8th-grade project, where students put together presentations for their new high schools, explaining their diagnosis, learning styles, and the strategies that help them succeed. This initiative goes beyond academic learning; it's about instilling lifelong skills of self-advocacy and self-awareness.

At Havern School, a unique educational approach integrates speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills instruction into the daily schedule of neurodiverse students. This seamless blend within the school day offers consistent, tailored support, enhancing students' learning and development. The model fosters a holistic learning experience, minimizes disruptions, and allows real-time application of skills in a classroom setting, benefiting students, families, and educators alike.

Finding Havern School was a turning point in our journey with a neurodivergent, gifted child. It provided the specialized academic, social, and emotional support that traditional schools couldn't offer, transforming our daughter's life from isolation and anxiety to happiness, friendship, and academic success.

Navigating the return to school after a lengthy holiday break can be a significant transition for neurodiverse learners, who often depend on consistency and routine. As a parent, understanding and assisting in this shift is crucial for a smooth and stress-free start to the new term. Here are some effective strategies to help your neurodiverse child adjust to resuming school.

When it comes to providing an exceptional educational experience for neurodiverse children, independent schools stand out. While public and charter schools have their merits, the unparalleled flexibility, individualized attention, and innovative programs offered by independent schools make them the optimal choice for nurturing the unique talents of neurodiverse students.

As the holiday season approaches, families everywhere are preparing for a time of joyous celebration. However, for parents and caregivers of neurodiverse children, this period can be filled with unique challenges. Changes in routine, new environments, and bustling social events can be overwhelming for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), or other learning differences. It's crucial to approach these changes with care and understanding, ensuring that our children experience the joy of the season while feeling supported and comfortable.

This YouTube video showcases the positive impact of the Zarlengo Foundation on Havern School's LEGO Club. It highlights the enhanced learning and play experiences for neurodiverse students, demonstrating the club's role in fostering childhood development. The video offers insight into how these initiatives contribute significantly to the educational environment at Havern School.

This video from Havern School explores the meaning of kindness through the perspectives of its community. It highlights how kindness shapes the school's environment, reflecting on its significance in education and personal interactions. The video is a compelling invitation to consider the impact of kindness in our daily lives