THERAPEUTIC PLAY

The word “kalesma” means invitation in Greek. It describes the approach we take towards autistic children. We create a fertile environment for growth by adapting to the way autistic children communicate. An expression of unconditional love and optimism sets the foundation for reaching our goal, namely the development of sociability in the child. By improving sociability, we solve most behavioral and communicational problems. Our approach is balanced on two foundational pillars: acceptance and motivation. Acceptance, even of stereotypical behaviors, is based on the knowledge that autism is not a behavioral disorder, but a breakdown of communication and interactivity. The motivation is what enables development. We encourage the child in practical ways and plant the desire of growth in them, instead of demanding it without first showing its value. Both these foundations of acceptance and sparking motivation is what invites the child to create a meaningful relationship with us, essential for true progress.

One of the biggest traps in interactions between autistic and non-autistic people is that not only does the autistic person misinterpret the other’s behavior, but the non-autistic does the exact same thing and takes personally that which meant no offense.

Martine F. Delfos