Why Wonder Stream?
Most kids with neurodevelopmental differences spend most of their days within the four walls of school and a therapy clinic — with little time left to explore new hobbies, hone their special interests, and have fun. All the more, many extra curricular activities and athletic programs do not have the proper support and resources to accommodate kids who have communication differences, sensory issues, or any varying degree of support needs. As moms navigating the world of disabilities, we found ourselves struggling to find a safe place for our kids to participate in activities on the weekends and after school. And the programs that did exist were far and few in between, often involving long drives and even longer waitlists.
So one day we came up with a plan to create these opportunities for our kids in our own backyard. At Wonder Stream™, we bring curated classes and community to you. Wonder Stream™ offers:
-Innovative classes that cater to special interests, hobbies, and needs — created and taught by our team of teachers and therapists. Classes rotate themes and change by season.
-Collaborative partnerships with some of your favorite already-established programs: park district classes, athletic programs, and community activities — where we bring specialized therapists to support their staff and instructors. This is more than just adding an aide to a classroom. Wonder Stream™ provides an integrated approach that reflects a co-taught, inclusive model.
-A community group called The Wonder Circle, for parents and families to find connection and support — including parent workshops that cover rotating topics with professionals in the field, an educational hub for resources, and local social events.
Our Principles
●
Accessibility & Inclusion
We believe extra curricular activities and programs should be available to every child, with the appropriate supports in place for all abilities. Inclusion isn’t inclusion unless it’s working for all children.
●
Exploration & Creativity
We emphasize exploration and creativity over compliance. When kids are exploring and leading the way, that is where the magic happens. Sports and activities outside of the school day should bring joy to the child and enhance quality of life, not add more “work” for them.
●
Confidence & Growth
We think confidence and growth happens when kids are doing something they love. Through thoughtfully designed classes and workshops that cater to high interest activities, growth is possible and confidence is built.
●
Connection & Community
We understand the importance of connection and community with families who are on a similar path and journey. We believe that having a safe space for kids, siblings, and parents to be entirely themselves is an integral part of being healthy, happy, and successful.
Our Story
Wonder Stream™ was founded by moms on a mission — a mission rooted in inclusion, connection, safety, exploration, and opportunity for neurodivergent kids and their families.
As moms raising kids with autism and high support needs, we realized we were living similar lives with similar dreams for our kids — as many parents do on this journey. Both passionate about trying to give our kids a life filled with joy, ease, and opportunity, we spent many hours individually and collectively trying to find a way to make this feel more possible. Often putting a lot of energy into making school and therapy experiences positive for our kids, we realized that we needed to put just as much effort into creating positive experiences outside of those two places. The only problem? There weren’t many options available to us. Many of our weekend plans involved splitting up from our families, changing plans, or staying home.
That is why we created Wonder Stream™. We believe that all kids should have the opportunity to explore passions and experience joy in an environment that feels safe for them. With the right supports in place and people that understand them and believe in their spark — we think that is when wonders flow freely, happiness comes more easily, and the magic unfolds.
We hope you come join us, and we’re so happy you’re here.