“Thank you so much. You’ve given me a place to make friends, feel accepted, play, learn, and grow.” — Matthew (2009 Graduate)
HOW TMC WORKS
THE MORGAN CENTER (TMC) provides preschool-age children battling cancer the opportunity to learn and socialize in a safe environment. Children undergoing chemotherapy treatment have a suppressed immune system. They cannot socialize with children in ‘typical’ preschool programs due to the risk of illnesses and diseases. Unfortunately, contracting a simple cold could become life-threatening to a child with a suppressed immune system. Young children with cancer can, however, interact with children who live in the same world of limited exposures. Parents of young children battling cancer understand the inherent risks and the importance of maintaining a healthy environment for their child and limiting exposure to germs.
TMC IN-PERSON CLASSROOM PROGRAM
THE MORGAN CENTER (TMC) has in-person classroom programs that provide early childhood learning, socialization, and academic enrichment to preschool-age children battling cancer.
TMC in-person classroom programs provide a quality pre-kindergarten learning foundation in a safe environment for young cancer patients.
TMC currently conducts in-person classroom programs in facilities in Hicksville, New York, and Orlando, Florida.
TMC provides all necessary materials and school supplies for the children to attend. Typical daily activities include lessons of the day, lesson-based activities, guided lesson-based play, circle time, story time, crafts, games, and free play to promote large motor skills and socialization.
The children’s parents or caregivers stay in a separate lounge area to relax or participate in group discussions. TMC children and families also have access to additional professional services and support.
Attendance at TMC is not mandatory. The children can attend as their health and treatment schedules permit.
Precautions TMC Takes to Limit Exposures to Germs
– Children with signs of a cold or fever will not be permitted to enter TMC
– Each child has their own personal classroom supply box with crayons, markers, and various school supplies labeled with their name
– Individual snacks are provided by TMC and are not shared between the children
– Activities with direct physical contact are minimized between the children (i.e., hand holding)
– The children use anti-bacterial soap and hand wipes throughout the day
– In addition to normal contract cleaning services, the furniture and equipment are cleaned daily by TMC staff
– No one outside of the children and the TMC staff comes in direct contact with the classroom materials, equipment, and supplies
Ultimately, TMC provides young children battling cancer an educational foundation that will help prepare them to grow, learn, and succeed in their future education and throughout their lives.
All TMC programs are provided FREE OF CHARGE to the children and their families.
Operating expenses are covered by private donations and fundraising.