In an effort to improve communication, daily living skills and educational outcomes for both children and adults with autism, developmental disabilities, emotional & behavioral challenges, Prader-Willi and others we serve, we use evidence-based treatment practices. From assistive technologies to clinical support, our nationally recognized clinical staff and teachers provide a range of related services to help our clients reach their goals. These include:
Occupational Therapy (OT): a person-centered therapy aimed at developing, recovering or maintaining the daily life and work skills of clients with a physical, mental or developmental condition. OT interventions focus on adapting the environment, modifying the task, teaching the skill and educating the individual/family/caretaker. The ultimate purpose of OT intervention is to increase or maintain participation in and performance of daily activities, particularly those most meaningful; to the client, in the home, school, work or community environment.
Physical Therapy (PT): therapy focused on the promotion of mobility, functional ability, quality of life and movement potential through examination, evaluation, diagnosis and physical intervention.
Psychological and Psychiatric Support: a form of support aimed at increasing a client’s sense of his/her own well-being. Psychologists / Psychiatrists employ a range of techniques based on relationship building, dialogue, communication, behavior change and in some cases medication that are designed to improve the mental health and quality of life of our clients.
Speech and language therapy (ST): therapy provided to clients that includes the diagnosis and treatment of communication disorders for children and adults. Therapy targets skills in sound production (speech), both receptive and expressive language, voice, fluency, and social skills. Our speech therapy department also works with clients who are non-verbal to develop alternative and augmentative communication or AAC. This could be sign language, picture based systems, or dynamic display voice output devices.
Food and Nutrition: Woods Services utilizes a commissary-style kitchen that houses a dedicated team of foodservice professionals. Experienced cooks specialize in different dietary departments including dysphagia, allergens, bakery, produce, and main entrees. Menus are developed by our Registered Dietitians and cater to individuals’ specific dietary needs. These menus provide complete and balanced nutrition for our individuals and staff. The menus follow all requirements of the USDA and the PA Department of Education to participate in the School Nutrition Programs. Food is prepared and delivered to approximately 55 locations by our dedicated delivery drivers. The Food and Nutrition Services Center also provides individuals the opportunity of gainful employment, a cafeteria for meetings and gatherings, and training opportunities for all of Woods Services’ employees.
Wellness Policy
Woods Services recognizes that wellness and proper nutrition are related to physical well-being, growth, and readiness to learn. We are committed to providing an environment that promotes wellness, proper nutrition, nutrition education and promotion, and regular physical activity as part of the learning experience. Individuals are educated on, and participate in, positive dietary and lifestyle practices that can improve achievement.
To ensure the health and well-being of all individuals, Woods provides:
- A nutrition program that is consistent with Federal and State guidelines.
- Curriculum and programs designed to educate individuals about proper nutrition and lifelong physical activity, in accordance with State Board of Education curriculum regulations and academic standards.
- Opportunities for developmentally appropriate physical activity.
Woods Services has a Woods Wellness Policy, which details these goals. They are reviewed and updated every three years. The triennial assessment will be made available to the public on our website when completed. You can read our assessment documents here:
Wellness Policy Triennial Assessment
Triennial Assessment of 2017-2023 Additional Goals
A Wellness Committee exists in order to implement and improve the Wellness Policy. Members meet quarterly to discuss the policy, goals and progress. We invite you to join the committee to help our clients thrive. If you are interested in participating, please send an email to communications@woods.org.
School Nutrition Programs
All children in Woods residential program participate in the School Breakfast Program (SBP) and The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) which is available 12 months of the year. All students at Woods receive a free lunch regardless of eligibility for program participation. The School Nutrition Programs (SNP) are available for all families in need, and more information can be found at the USDA’s Child Nutrition Website.
For non-residential students, School Breakfast Program information can be found on https://www.fns.usda.gov/sbp/school-breakfast-program-sbp or please contact the State agency responsible for the administration of the Program in your State: https://www.fns.usda.gov/school-meals/school-meals-contacts
The USDA also provides free or reduced price meals for children in need for the summer via the Summer Food Service Program. Families that do not have adequate access for nutritious meals may use any of the following methods to locate sites that serve free meals to children during the summer:
•Call 211
•Call 1.866.3Hungry or 1.877.8Hambre
•Text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 877877 during the summer months
•Text “SUMMER MEALS” or “VERANO” to 97779.
•Use the website: www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks •Use the site locator for smartphones – Rangeapp.org
It is our policy to guarantee each individual his or her civil rights and to educate all staff so they can exercise these rights as appropriate.
Current 2023 Menus for the Woods Schools: Gardner and Crestwood
Current 2024 Adult Day Program and Residential Menus
| Fall Menus |
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Week 11-11-2024 |
Week of 11-18-2024 |
Week of 11-25-2024 |
Week of 12-2-2024 |
Week of 12-9-2024 |
