Autism Initiative is a pet therapy program geared towards working with children who have autism. This program currently takes place at Brennen School, Claymont Elementary School, McVey Elementary School, PS DuPont Middle School, and Gallaher Elementary School.

Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects children uniquely, so each child is approached differently. PAWS teams work with the on-site instructors and therapists to address the goals of each child’s IEP. For children, ages 4-10, who have difficulty relating to humans, interaction with animals is the perfect half-step for learning to connect with others. Petting or grooming dogs satisfies the child’s need for repetitive action in a socially acceptable way, and the dog responds to the child without requiring socially-mandated behaviors such as words, smiles or handshakes and hugs. A bond forms between the therapy dog and child and allows the child to become more self-assured and curious about his/her surroundings. Eventually, the child begins to reach out to people with less trepidation.

This program is funded by a grant from the Delaware Foundation for Reaching Citizens with Intellectual Disabilities (DFRC).

Requirements: PAWS Basic Training, Advanced Level STEX, 6 hour Autism Training.