Frequently asked questions & policies

My student has never come to Whole Children. Can I just sign them up?
The first step is to complete the New Family paperwork. These documents can be found on our website on the class schedule page. If you need help completing the paperwork, please contact us at 413-585-8010 and speak to someone in our front office.

We find it helpful for new students, parents, guardians, and care providers to visit our building before the first day of class. During your visit, you will get a tour, meet some teachers, and be able to ask any questions you have. If you would like to schedule a tour, please contact 413.585.8010 and ask to speak with the Whole Selves Program Manager.

How do I know if a particular class is right for the student?
We can help you and your child determine which classes might work best.

You can check our class schedule first to see what stands out. You can also call the main number at 413-585-8010 and ask to speak to the Whole Children program manager for more information.

How do I register?
If you are already a member of Whole Children, you can register through your parent portal, in person, or over the phone.

If you are not yet a member of Whole Children, you will need to complete the New Family paperwork on the class schedule page. Once we have created your profile, you will receive an email letting you know how to register for classes.

If, at any time, you have questions, please contact our office at 413-585-8010.

It says the class is full; how can I sign up?
If the class is full, we can add your student to the waitlist. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, call our front office at 413-585-8010. We will contact you if a spot opens up.
What kind of forms do I need?
There are several required documents for new families. These are located on the class schedule page and will need to be completed prior to registering for classes.
What should I bring to class?
Students should wear comfortable clothing if the class is movement-based (gymnastics, yoga, kung-fu, etc.). Unless otherwise specified, we will provide any necessary materials for participation.
Can we come in and observe a class/tour the space before registering?
Of course! Call our office at 413-585-8010 and ask to speak with the Whole Children program manager.
What do I do if I have a problem with a class or a teacher?
If you have a question or concern about the class, you can always speak to the teacher. They are happy to work with students to make the necessary accommodations for success. If the situation doesn’t feel resolved, you can contact the program manager.
What is the Inclusive Community Center?
The building at 11 Village Hill Rd. is home to programs Whole Children, Whole Selves, Milestones Day (a day program similar to Whole Children, but for older teens and adults), Autism Connections and Family Empowerment (the family support center, which, among other things, hosts parent support groups and regular workshops for parents on issues related to having a child with a disability).

We call our building the Inclusive Community Center to reflect the various programs that run here, and to emphasize that we welcome all families.

What does inclusion look like at Whole Children and Milestones?
Our classes are open to people of all abilities and some include typically developing students. We also believe in creating an environment where everyone is respected and taught in a way that works for them.

Students often take the skills they learn and practice at Whole Children and put them to use in the community. It is our goal that the classes will give our students the skills to be included in a meaningful way.

What are common disabilities and symptoms among Whole Children and Milestones students?
Most Whole Children students have one or more developmental disabilities and some have medical issues. Please bear in mind that we recognize our students not by their disabilities but by the content of their characters and by the expression of their personalities. Some common IDDs are Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Sensory Integration Dysfunction.
Weather/Cancellation Policy
Classes at Whole Children may be canceled due to inclement weather. In the event of poor conditions, check the status of your class by calling our office at 413-585-8010. The recorded message will be updated to relay information about cancellations.

All canceled classes will be re-scheduled during our make-up week or other available dates.

Drop Off Policy
Whole Children wants everyone to be successful in the classes they attend. That is why it is our policy for parents/caregivers of new students and those under 13 years old to remain on the premises for the duration of the class to be available to our staff and their students in case of need. Our goal is to help our students develop the skills to function safely and independently in our classes.

Once teachers/staff see that a student has demonstrated the ability to participate safely, parents/caregivers may leave during class if they would like. However, parents/caregivers must be able to return quickly in the event their student requires assistance. Whole Children must have a way to contact a parent/caregiver during the class.

How do I make payments?
Payment may be made by cash, check, or through Jack Rabbit, Whole Children’s class registration software.

If needed, the office may set up a payment plan. Payment plans can be flexible, including being set up to pay weekly. Whatever plan is approved, this plan will include the full class price regardless of whether the student attends all classes. If you would like to discuss a payment plan, don't hesitate to get in touch with our office at 413-585-8010 and ask to speak with the Office Manager.

Refund policy
Full refunds will be given for classes that are canceled. If a registered paid participant is unable to attend the class and notifies us one week prior to the start of the session, a refund will be made.

No refunds will be given once the program has started except under extreme circumstances or for new students trying a class for the first time.

Scholarships
There are limited scholarships available to income-eligible families. Please fill out a scholarship request form or see front office staff to fill out the forms for scholarship money.
Other funding possibilities
Many families are able to get classes paid for by their school district, the Department of Developmental Services, or other agencies. For more information, contact Family Empowerment or call 413-585-8010.
Tree nut policy
Whole Children aims to make our space safe for everyone. Therefore, it is our policy to make all common spaces at 11 Village Hill Road free of peanuts and tree nuts. We also understand that some students may not have flexibility in what they eat for lunch or snacks. Therefore, we have one room designated as a “nuts allowed” space for students who eat nut products.