With the structure we provide, we see behavior turn around rapidly, as well as a significant improvement in self-image. He's great with the kids - not only because of all his training. He's also very intuitive about what they need. Kotkin also seems to know what parents need. He holds a six-week class to help them extend the benefits of the program into the child's home life.
Parents learn strategies, for example, to reinforce the child's newfound social skills.
We do teach parents how to be proactive, to intervene early before a serious problem crops up. It takes time to 'unlearn' patterns that don't work - the parent's behavior needs to change first, before the child's will. After completing the course, students can work as volunteer behavior specialists for the center. Some even garner paid positions. The center's influence has been steadily radiating outward into the community.