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For over 25 years Latham Centers, Inc. has been a leader in creating safe environments for children and adults with Prader-Willi syndrome.  Much progress has been made in the scientific and educational community’s understanding of the syndrome.  With the changing landscape of interventions and options in the treatment of the disorder, Latham has made it a priority to stay abreast of developments through its membership in the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA–USA), the national association for professionals and families living and working with PWS students, the Prader-Willi Alliance of New York, and the New England Prader-Willi Association, of which Latham has presented at conferences nationally and regionally.

Our program includes a fully licensed and approved special needs school.  Each student’s learning is enhanced by a rich academic and vocational curriculum in small classes.  A licensed teacher and special education classroom aide teach classes.  Classes include: English and Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science, Physical Education and Health, Computers and Technology, Library Skills and Performing Arts. Students also participate weekly in an Arts and Music Program.  Students who are age appropriate take classes in employment skills and can attain job placement, on or off campus, while enrolled in school. Twenty-four hour supervision is provided by staff to meet each student’s unique medical, behavioral, emotional, educational and vocational needs. 

Our team of childcare professionals works with each student to enhance their daily living skills and to build the skills necessary to live as independently as possible.  Staff focuses on areas of personal hygiene, clothing selection, household chores, shopping and care of possessions.  Older students learn money management and can gain more independence while still under staff supervision. Exercise is integrated into the daily routine and monitored by staff.  Direct care staff also plans recreational activities, which include arts and crafts, music and movies.  They promote social and emotional growth by providing many opportunities for community involvement, in such activities as Special Olympics, attending community theatre productions, going to local dances and the like.

Latham’s Nursing Department coordinates all medical and psychiatric services and will work with family health care providers, if desired. A nurse is always on call after hours and on weekends for emergencies.  The Nursing Department, in conjunction with the medical doctor, establishes a goal weight and develops and reviews menus and dietary procedures.  Implementation of the dietary program is carried out by staff that monitors food intake and weight levels.  Food related items are kept locked at all times. 

The Latham Diet was developed by our staff nurse in consultation with a licensed nutritionist, with active input from individuals with PWS and their staff, and has been extremely effective in helping students lose weight.

Each student and family is assigned a clinician who provides case management and therapy. Each student participates in a weekly social skills group. Specialized groups are also provided on anger management, dating and relationships and other topics as needed.

For further information and/or to make a referral to Latham School please contact:

Susan LaPlant
Admissions Coordinator
508-896-5776 x-237