An ‘Extreme Challenge’ for Carlson students

Fifth and sixth-grade students at Clara H. Carlson School in Elmont took part in a variety of unique game-like activities as part of the school’s Extreme Challenge event.

The activity, which was planned as part of the school’s Autism Awareness Week, broke students into two-player teams and challenged them with several activities, including stacking cups into a pyramid using only one hand each, keeping a balloon off the ground without using their hands and a blindfolded obstacle course. After each activity was completed, the winner of the challenge had to answer an autism-related question. If the team answered correctly, they won a puzzle piece; if not, the other team had an opportunity to steal. According to school psychologist Dorit Brander, each year the school selects a week to raise awareness of autism.

“We want to increase sensitivity, awareness and understanding to bring about acceptance,” Brander said.

The Extreme Challenge game was held on Pajama Day. Other events held throughout the school’s Autism Awareness Week were Character Day, Rainbow Day and Band Day.