832 Route 15, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849

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Innovative Learning and a Family Atmosphere: A Mentor's Perspective at Bristow Center

Mentor Interview 1

Some of the strategies we like to use here at the Bristow Center is with games where the students and children of the group don't know. They're actually learning while they're playing a game. They think of it more all we're just playing now, but we put our own skills and techniques into the games. Whatever we learn in class, I inform the parents like today we did building confidence and I have them encourage their child to stand in front of a mirror for 2 minutes every night and say, I am brave, I am strong. And it just allows the parents to see what we're doing and help build their relationship outside of group as well as building a relationship inside group work. And here at the birth center, in the five short months I've worked here, I find it very rewarding. It's a positive atmosphere. The environment is very homey and welcoming, and I don't feel like I'm just another employee. I feel like I'm part of a family. And I, from day one, never felt any less than being part of this team.

At the Bristow Center, our approach to learning goes beyond traditional methods. Our mentors employ innovative strategies to make learning fun and effective, creating an environment where children and staff alike feel they are part of a family. Today, we share insights from one of our mentors about the unique learning techniques and the nurturing work environment at our center.

Learning Through Play

One of the core strategies we use involves integrating learning with play. "Some of the strategies we like to use here at the Bristow Center is with games where the students and children of the group don't know they're actually learning while they're playing a game," explains one of our mentors. This approach allows children to engage in learning activities without the pressure of a traditional educational setting, making the process enjoyable and effective.

Engaging Parents in the Learning Process

Communication with parents is key to extending the learning environment from the center to the home. Our mentor shares, "Whatever we learn in class, I inform the parents. Like today, we did building confidence, and I have them encourage their child to stand in front of a mirror for 2 minutes every night and say, 'I am brave, I am strong.'" This practice not only reinforces the day's lessons but also helps parents actively participate in their child's development.

Building Relationships Inside and Outside the Classroom

The goal is to build strong relationships not just within the group sessions but also beyond. "It just allows the parents to see what we're doing and help build their relationship outside of group as well as building a relationship inside group work," the mentor adds. This holistic approach fosters a supportive community for both children and their families.

A Rewarding and Welcoming Environment

Working at the Bristow Center is a rewarding experience, marked by a positive and welcoming atmosphere. "In the five short months I've worked here, I find it very rewarding. The environment is very homey and welcoming, and I don't feel like I'm just another employee. I feel like I'm part of a family," says the mentor. This sense of belonging is crucial in creating a supportive environment conducive to the personal and professional growth of our staff.

The Bristow Center is more than just a place for child development; it's a community where innovative learning strategies and strong relationships thrive within a family-like atmosphere. Our staff are not just employees but family members who are deeply invested in each child's growth and well-being.

Contact Us

If you're struggling with this or other behavioral issues and need more personalized advice, don't hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

At Bristow Center, we're here to support you and your child through every step of their social development.

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