Calo Programs

10/29/2026

10/28/2026

As we continue to navigate the loss of our Animal Assisted Therapy Manager, Ariel McCullough, our staff and students have come together to support one another through grief groups, memorial activities, and meaningful tributes. From the handmade cards that now cover her office door, to gratitude wreaths created by the teen boys and displayed on the dog park fence, to a memorial and lantern release organized by the teen girls, and the countless personal acts of remembrance, each gesture reflects the profound impact Ariel had on our community. These tributes speak to the love, gratitude, and admiration so many held for her. Her legacy will continue to live on in the lives she touched, and she will not be forgotten.

10/28/2026

Not every feeling comes with words. Drawing, painting, or music can offer another way to express ourselves—without pressure to create something perfect. 🎨

What creative activity brings you joy?

10/26/2026

A difficult moment may hold more than we can see. Pause, get curious, and offer a gentle question or choice. Understanding begins with making room to listen. 💛

Swipe for three simple reminders.

10/24/2026

Draco is always living his best life!

10/22/2026

Connecting with purpose in Chicago! 🍂🏙️

Calo is excited to connect with educators and special education leaders at the IAASE Fall 2026 Conference in Chicago, IL.

Let’s talk about the power of relationships, individualized support, and working together to help students with complex emotional and behavioral needs thrive. Stop by and see Abby and Sarah—we’d love to meet you! 💛

10/16/2026

💛 Connection begins with helping your child feel seen, heard, and valued.

It grows in everyday moments—listening without rushing, showing interest in their world, and staying present when feelings are difficult. Connection doesn’t require agreement or removing boundaries. It means communicating, “Your feelings matter, and I want to understand.”

PACE offers four ways to bring that intention into your interactions:

🌟 Playfulness: Share moments of enjoyment through a game, a silly voice, or a favorite activity. Follow your child’s lead; humor should never minimize their distress.

💛 Acceptance: Make room for their feelings, even when you need to limit a behavior. “I understand you’re angry. I won’t let you hurt someone.”

🌿 Curiosity: Approach their experience with openness rather than assumptions. “I noticed you got quiet. Would you like to tell me what that moment was like?” Give them time to respond.

🤍 Empathy: Show that you’re willing to sit with their experience before trying to solve it. “That sounds disappointing. I’m here with you.”

Sometimes connection looks like a conversation. Other times, it means sitting nearby, drawing together, or respecting a request for space. The goal is to offer a relationship where your child can feel understood—even through hard moments.

10/14/2026

💛 Small moments matter. 💛

Invite your child to spend five minutes together—drawing, sharing a favorite song, or taking a short walk.

Follow their interests and leave room for quiet. There’s no need for a big conversation or a finished project. Simply offer your attention, without pressure, and respect their choice if they’re not ready.

What’s one simple activity you enjoy together?

CALO Trust Restored
Create Joy, Heal Generations.

10/11/2026

Connection Before Correction

In a hard moment, begin by helping your child feel heard. A calm voice and “I can see this is hard” can make room for a conversation.

Validate the feeling while holding the boundary: “It’s okay to feel angry. It’s not okay to hurt someone.”

Once everyone is calmer, talk about what happened and what to try next. Connection creates space for guidance and learning.

10/10/2026

💚 On World Mental Health Day, we recognize the struggles that often go unseen—and the difference compassion can make.

To the child learning to express their feelings, the parent searching for answers, and the caregiver holding so much: your mental health matters, too.

At Calo, we believe healing begins with relationships where people feel safe, seen, and valued. A caring check-in, a moment of listening, or asking for support can open the door to connection.

Today and every day, you deserve care, understanding, and hope. 🌿

Create Joy, Heal Generations.