Will my child have a one-to-one?
- Children aged birth to three who have a diagnosis of Autism or PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified or PDD-NOS) and are being funded through the Department of Public Health (meaning they are receiving Early Intervention services) will be assigned a one-on-one.
- All other children will have a 2:1 ratio (meaning one staff member will be working with two children). Additionally, the child’s family member or caregiver is also welcome to stay.
- Families who wish their child to have a 1:1 may pay an additional fee of $72 per hour.
Am I required to stay with my child?
- We strongly encourage families or caretakers to participate in our program. However, sometimes families have other responsibilities which we understand. A parent may sign consent to leave their child at our facility to participate in group.
- If your child attends our Practice Pre-School program 5 days per week, we do not expect that families will stay.
Who pays for the program?
- Our program is funded through families, school systems, or Early Intervention
- If your child receives “specialty services” through your early intervention (meaning your child has a diagnosis of Autism or PDD (PDD-NOS), the Department of Public Health will likely cover the cost of this program regardless of income. These children may attend group as long as they continue to receive Early Intervention services and are under the age of 3. Once a child turns 3, families have the option to pay privately if they want to continue the group.
Who provides lunch and snack?
- Families provide both lunch and snack. Many of our children have severe food allergies; therefore our facility is nut-free. We will make every effort to accommodate students who have other life threatening allergies as well.
- We provide food for tasting groups. As many of our students are on special diets, we will make every effort to accommodate them, however there may be times that we ask you to bring a special food in for your child so s/he can participate in tasting group.
What are the staff’s qualifications?
- All of our staff has either a Bachelors or Masters Degree in Education, Psychology or related field.
- All of our specialists are licensed and certified in their individual area of expertise (i.e., Speech, Occupational Therapy, etc.)
- All staff have certification in the Milestones’ training and intervention course
- All staff are CPR and 1st Aid Certified
- Meet our staff
Can my child join mid-year?
- Absolutely! We have a rolling admissions process
What should my child wear?
- Comfortable clothing that can get dirty/messy – our kids have a lot of fun!
What if my child has a meltdown?
- Many parents fear their child will have a meltdown or behavior problem. Don’t worry – that’s what we’re here for and have expertise with!
What if my child isn’t ready to handle the curriculum?
- The curriculum is used as a general guide. We regularly modify activities based upon the group or individual abilities.
