We have developed a program in our center that will provide individualized and developmentally appropriate interventions for all our participants. Our program is divided into three groups, each focusing on specific areas of development:
Morning Group (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Our Morning Group is designed for younger learners, focusing on foundational social skills and early communication. This session emphasizes:
- Early Social Responding: Encouraging shared enjoyment, joint attention, and foundational social cues.
- Social Motivation: Building interest in social interactions and increasing engagement with peers.
- Initiation and Reciprocity: Promoting the initiation of interactions and understanding the give-and-take of social exchanges.
- Early Mands (Requests): Teaching children to ask for what they want or need.
- Play Skills: Developing the ability to engage in play, both independently and with others.
Afternoon Group (12:30 PM – 3:30 PM)
The Afternoon Group is ideal for learners who are ready to expand their communication and social skills. This session focuses on:
- Expanding Spontaneous Communication: Enhancing the use of language and communication in a natural conversational manner.
- Peer-to-Peer Interactions: Encouraging meaningful interactions and friendships.
- Scaffolding Social Play: Supporting children in structured play activities that promote cooperation and shared enjoyment.
- Flexibility: Helping children adapt to changes in routines and activities.
- Group Learning: Fostering skills necessary for group settings, such as following group instructions and participating in group activities.
After School Group (3:45 PM – 5:00 PM)
Our After School Group supports older children and those transitioning to more complex social situations. This session targets:
- Cooperation and Teamwork: Encouraging collaboration and working together towards common goals.
- Increased Flexibility: Building resilience in handling unexpected changes and adapting to new situations.
- Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution: Teaching strategies to navigate challenges and resolve disputes.
- Conversation and Perspective Taking: Enhancing conversational skills and understanding others’ viewpoints.
Our Approach
Each group is structured with a developmentally appropriate schedule, balancing structured activities with facilitated free play. Our model starts with 1:1 support, ensuring each child receives the attention they need. As children progress and develop their skills, we gradually transition to less intensive support, moving Ing from 1:1 to 2:1, and eventually 3:11 ratios, as appropriate. This approach helps to promote independence and prepares children for a more natural, less structured environment. We address each child’s individual goals, providing personalized support and guidance throughout the sessions.