Blog - Wild Wisdom

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 The Sanctuary Educational Services Incorporated (TSESI) is a renewed version of The Learning Lens Early Enrichment Program, originally established in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1994, and established in Georgia in 2012.  The word "Sanctuary" was chosen to further define our purpose, which is to create a place of refuge and protection in which students feel safe to be themselves, express their ideas, emotions, and needs throughout their learning journeys.  Our goal is to create a community rooted in inclusion and the overall success of our students.  We incorporate the values of self-awareness, respect, leadership, and humanity, as vital components in our programs. 

The Sanctuary Educational Services Incorporated has successfully merged authentic therapy and individualized educational support for students of all ages. We work primarily with - A-typical, neurodivergent, down syndrome, and students diagnosed with social and emotional needs.  Our program increases learning outcomes for students, while simultaneously decreasing teacher workload. This is accomplished by creating a community resource map, connecting therapy with curriculum and fostering impactful partnerships that balance the responsibility of education and strengthens our community as a whole. We have expanded the vision of the program by including the community and reaching out to all stakeholders.  With over 30 years of experience, as a childcare provider, consultant, and director, our co-owner, Lonnette Bruce, has extended her expertise to include her certification as a behavioral technician and by entering her master's program.  Our co-owner Tammera Bibbins started her career as an in-school therapist and now has a thriving private practice as a Licensed clinical Social Worker.

  The Learning Sanctuary & Inclusion Academy is dedicated to serving children with and without special rights. Our mission is to empower students, their families, and educators, support the advancement of neurodivergent research and foster inclusive communities that prioritize autonomy and belonging within an array of educational settings. 

Our therapy rooms are natural and open.  Our environments are equipped with meaningful and engaging materials. We incorporate transparency and authenticity to facilitate unique experiences tailored to each child's needs and approach to learning. We push the boundaries of therapy in education to include and address the mental, physical, and nutritional needs of students and families.  A sensory room, Outdoor classroom, exploring nature, and the community garden are a daily part of our routine, therapy sessions, and learning experiences.   

Bring an umbrella, raincoat, and boots, because we jump in puddles and dance in the rain.  We believe that direct exposure to nature is essential for healthy childhood development and for the physical and emotional health of children. 

  The mental health of children is paramount, as it lays the foundation for their future well-being.  Ultimately, investing in child therapy not only addresses current mental health concerns but also equips children with skills for a healthier, happier future. We offer flexible sessions and payment plans. Local resources are often available to alleviate financial pressure.  Do not hesitate to ask how we can help. If we can't help, we will support families with finding resources that can.

The Sanctuary Educational Outreach Program understands that some students do not thrive in the traditional classroom. Our goal is to give parents peace of mind, knowing that their students are in a safe, positive, and respectful environment conducive to learning and addressing social and emotional needs.  We will strive to meet both the physical and mental needs of students through therapy and other support services.

Our mission is to create inspiring and personalized therapy sessions and learning experiences for students with or without special rights. Our therapists, behavioral technicians, learning coaches and tutors will partner with state-certified teachers, the online school community, and homeschool coops to ensure students stay focused, on pace and connected to their individual learning goals.  

Tutors and coaches are available for personalized support, ensure access to meaningful materials and engaging environments, and facilitate hands on experiences to enhance learning outcomes. 

Therapists, coaches, tutors, and parents will engage in ongoing communication.  With the added support of specialists and community partners, our tutors and learning coaches will gather the additional resources needed for students to succeed.  We want to empower students to reach their full potential and to develop an ongoing love for learning. We enhance educational outcomes by improving emotional regulation - enhancing coping strategies and developing skills to build stronger relationships.  In addition to therapy services, we offer support groups for parents and caregivers to provide a vital network of understanding and shared experiences. 

The Sanctuary Nutrition Program 

We believe that Nutritional therapy and education inspires healthy eating choices. Our nutritional therapy sessions will include hands-on gardening and cooking experiences.  Children and families will learn how to grow, cook, source, and enjoy good food.   Introducing children to gardening, composting, and cooking encourages them to try new foods and set healthy eating habits that last a lifetime. Our nutrition program works in conjunction with The Learning Sanctuary & Inclusion Academy, to provide therapy that includes healthy home cooked meals, makes children a part of menu development, meal prep, and active leaders by giving back through our community garden. Through gardening and cooking, children will engage in an array of sensory and socialization activities and learn how nutrition connects to their daily lives. We partner with a nutritional specialist, our neighborhood grocery store, professional chefs and local farmers to bring farm to table freshness and introduce foods in meaningful and engaging ways.  

We are committed to supporting students of all ages and we understand that learning is not limited to "traditional educational" experiences.  Our goal is to increase the social and economic growth of communities by providing non-traditional students access to affordable housing, opportunities to advance education, and job training programs. Our Non-traditional Students and Female Veterans Program offers support with affordable housing, therapy, and on the job training for non-traditional students and female veterans interested in furthering their education in any field.   Our program facilitates certifications as Registered Behaviral Technicians (RBT), Child Development Associates (CDA), First Aid and CPR classes, on the job training, and observation hours for individuals interested in entering the ECE and ABA fields.  We partner with community organizations for additional, on-the-job experiences, adult education courses, and training in other areas of professional development.  Email us for additional information.

Our summer socialization therapy sessions will feature engaging activities, onsite field trips, water play, and foam parties.  The public is welcome to sign up for special events for a small fee.  Parents must remain with non-registered students.

Summer sessions are available for children 1 year - 6 years of age. A $95 Non-refundable registration fee will apply.  Limited spots are available. Families may register for a maximum of two 2-hour therapy sessions.  An additional fee will apply to special events.

Children registered for 2025 summer therapy will automatically have priority registration for fall sessions. Register for the summer and the fall 2025-26 school year for - $150 and save $40.  All therapy sessions except music will be available during the summer months.

This is an opportunity for you and your child to meet our staff and learn more about us and our program before committing to ongoing therapy sessions.  

ROBOTICS and STEM sessions available for students 7 - 12 years of age.  Contact us for additional information and location.