Daily Schedule

At Sandhill, each day is thoughtfully structured to promote therapeutic growth, academic engagement, and emotional well-being. Our daily routine provides the stability and support children need to make meaningful progress. At left is a sample of a typical weekday schedule.

Daily Life at Sandhill

Structure, Stability, and Routine
Children participating in a mindfulness stretching exercise inside a cozy, well-lit room at Sandhill Center
Student biking down dirt path with peer

7:00 – 8:30 AM | Morning Transition
Children are gently woken by Teachers’ Aides, who help them transition into their day while observing how each child is doing emotionally and physically. This time allows staff to provide the appropriate support for a smoother start.

8:15 – 9:15 AM | Movement & Regulation
Mornings begin with activities like yoga, stretching, or light exercise. Movement helps regulate emotions and energy, preparing children for focused learning.

9:15 – 12:15 PM | Individualized Academic Instruction
Classes are individualized to meet each child’s unique learning needs. Frequent breaks are incorporated to help children stay engaged and focused in a supportive classroom environment.

12:15 – 1:00 PM | Lunch Break
A balanced, nutritious lunch offers time for social interaction and an opportunity to recharge for the afternoon.

1:00 – 2:15 PM | Experiential Learning
Afternoons include hands-on and outdoor learning opportunities, such as nature-based activities or creative projects, encouraging curiosity and active participation.

2:30 – 4:30 PM | Therapeutic Activities & Skill-Building
This time features enriching activities like horseback riding, caring for barn animals, biking, or nature walks. Twice a week, children participate in Prosocial Group sessions led by a therapist, focusing on how to problem solve with their peers and improve their ability to appropriately socially engage with others.

4:30 – 5:30 PM | Calming Activities
As the day winds down, children engage in low-key neuroregulatory activities like baking, crafting, or quiet play. These calming activities help transition them into an evening of relaxation.

5:30 – 6:15 PM | Family-Style Dinner
Dinner is served family-style, fostering connection and a sense of community.

6:15 – 8:45 PM | Evening Wind-Down
Evening routines focus on preparing for a peaceful night. Staff assist children with bedtime routines, followed by quiet activities like reading or storytelling to help them settle into sleep.

Weekends at Sandhill
Weekends allow for extended outdoor adventures, such as hiking or biking, as well as off-campus activities and downtime when appropriate. Children also take part in maintaining their personal space through a deep clean of their rooms.

Flexibility for Individual Needs
Schedules may adapt to accommodate individual therapy, family therapy, psychiatrist appointments, or family visits, ensuring each child’s therapeutic journey is prioritized.

Students engaged in a hands-on learning activity at Sandhill Center, working on worksheets with markers and guidance from a teacher.

Sandhill Campus Gallery

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A student at Sandhill Center gently holding a therapy dog's paw, fostering emotional connection and trust.