At Magdala House, dignity is at the heart of everything we do—and that includes creating opportunities for lifelong learning. For clients in our Adult Day Care Program, learning to read isn’t just about letters and words. It’s about building confidence, connection, and everyday life skills.
Each week, our program staff introduces a set of sight words—words like “kitchen,” “door,” or “apple”—that clients can practice at home with roommates or in class with peers. What starts as a small lesson often becomes a joyful, contagious challenge. Clients quiz one another, write out the words in notebooks, and even form complete sentences.
And when quiz day arrives? It’s all smiles, high-fives, and celebration. Some clients who once hesitated to speak aloud now proudly read their words. Others cheer on their peers with excitement and encouragement.
These simple lessons are doing something profound:
- Boosting self-confidence
- Encouraging peer learning
- Strengthening real-world literacy, like reading grocery labels, identifying rooms in a building, or spelling their favorite foods.
We’ve seen clients proudly identify the word “bathroom” on a public sign. Others recognize words on snack wrappers or write messages to staff using new vocabulary. These are moments that may seem small to others, but to us and our clients, they’re milestones.
Because everyone deserves the dignity of learning, no matter their age, ability, or background.
At Magdala House, we’re proud to provide more than care—we’re creating pathways for growth, independence, and joy.
Want to learn more?
Visit www.Magdala-House.org or call 314-571-9950 to explore how our Adult Day Care Program is helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive.
Donate today and help create more moments of confidence, connection, and celebration.
