Pediatrics – SPARK Center

Services

What is SPARK?

The SPARK Center, the only program of its kind in New England, is a medically-therapeutic childcare facility and day program. Located in Mattapan, SPARK is a vital part of Boston’s urban community, currently assisting more than 100 children and families annually.

Who Are the Children?

SPARK serves children and families whose lives are affected by:

• Complex medical needs (i.e.: neurological complications, failure to thrive and HIV/AIDS)
  
  
• Emotional and behavioral challenges related to trauma (i.e.: child abuse, domestic violence and caregiver loss and separation)
  
  
• Developmental delays and special educational needs

Specialized Services

SPARK is a hospital-sponsored pediatric program designed to provide specialized services in the context of traditional classroom environments.  Children from all ages in the daycare, after school, teen and summer programs benefit from an integrated model of care, including:

• Medical Supports: daily medication administration, specialty therapies, medication adherence counseling, HIV prevention education and nutrition and fitness instruction.
  
  
• Mental Health Interventions: individual psychotherapy, family counseling, support groups, music and art therapy, social skills building, crisis intervention and psychiatric liaison.
  
  
• Educational Services: neuro-developmental and academic assessments, school planning and advocacy, early literacy programs, cultural enrichment, homework tutoring and academic and job skills development

Children at SPARK are nurtured throughout their formative years and are encouraged to develop into resilient teenagers, ready for adulthood. The SPARK Center imparts excellence in specialized services by upholding BMC’s mission to provide exceptional care, without exception.

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Fundraising Event - Fall 2009