Pieceful Solutions, which operates three K-12 schools for students with autism spectrum disorders, is teaming up with the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) for a special canine training session as part of its Autism Awareness Month activities in April.

Ten students from 5th through 12th grade will be participating in clicker training with local owned and shelter dogs on Tuesday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Arizona Humane Society’s Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion, located at 1521 W. Dobbins Rd in Phoenix.

“Teaming up with Pieceful Solutions’ schools during Autism Awareness Month not only gives us a chance to expose children to hands-on experiences and the joy that pets bring us, but it also helps to prepare our pets for adoption into their new, loving homes,” said Bretta Nelson, a spokesperson with the Arizona Humane Society.

During the session, students will help teach pets the basics of “sit” and “touch” using a small hand-held device that clicks to acknowledge the behavior and lets the dog know a reward will follow. 

“As part of our ongoing quest to deliver a comprehensive curriculum using innovative teaching techniques, we’ve teamed up with the Arizona Humane Society to help students improve their social skills by working with the shelter animals,” said Robin Rollando, CEO of Pieceful Solutions. “In addition to receiving a little extra training and TLC, these four-legged friends are some of the best companions, helping students on the autism spectrum to develop lifelong skills.”

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorders is growing exponentially, especially in Arizona. One out of every 50 children born has autism, and Arizona is at the top of the list. As the numbers increase, the demand for nontraditional schools like the ones that Pieceful Solutions operates is becoming more vital, offering students with autism the opportunity to avoid bullying, make friends, and excel in school. 

Pieceful Solutions plans to celebrate Autism Awareness Month at its three schools in Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa throughout the month of April. Students will be holding baking and change-collection fundraisers, wearing blue and creating blue-themed culinary delights, such as Blue Moon Ice Cream, Blueberry Muffins and Blue Egg Sandwiches, to match the official color of Autism Awareness Month.