Do you think your child could benefit from a specialized preschool program? A therapeutic preschool could be a great option. Therapeutic preschools offer tailored education for children with disabilities, serious injuries and illnesses. As a parent or caregiver, ensuring that your kid gets the best care and education possible is a top priority. By enrolling your child in a therapeutic preschool program, you can help your child get the support they need and set them up for long-term success.
Benefits of a specialized preschool program
- Individualized support — Every child is different. When it comes to supporting children with disabilities, one-size-fits-all approaches are not effective. An effective early childhood education program will offer education and environment adaptations based on each student. Teachers and staff are trained to help children with a variety of needs. Class sizes and ratios tend to be smaller, so each child can get more individual attention from educators. Getting personalized support in the classroom can make your child feel seen, understood and valued.
- Early intervention — Is your child having trouble reaching developmental milestones? If so, intervening early can be crucial. Research shows that early intervention increases the well-being of children in educational settings. It can also have a significant impact on your child’s physical, social-emotional and cognitive development. A specialized preschool program can offer more than education. It can also be integrated into a more comprehensive treatment plan for your child. Depending on your child’s needs, services like speech therapy and physical therapy can be valuable. Preschool marks a formative period in a person’s life. By providing access to resources now, you can help your kid start overcoming obstacles and developing crucial skills.
- Peer connections — Socializing is an important aspect of the preschool experience. In a specialized preschool, your child will have the opportunity to socialize with other children who may face similar challenges. This can help foster a sense of belonging and empowerment. Building connections with classmates can also help your child develop valuable social skills. A good therapeutic preschool can provide your child with a supportive environment and community.
- Accessible setting — A traditional preschool can pose many challenges for children with disabilities. Curriculum-related challenges are not the only potential obstacle. The actual physical setting can be difficult to navigate as well. If your child’s mobility is limited, they may have a hard time moving through and engaging with traditional preschool spaces. This is another area where a therapeutic preschool offers big advantages. The setting of a therapeutic preschool program is designed to be accessible for all students. Each classroom, restroom and play area is equipped to accommodate a range of needs. An accessible classroom setting can help your child navigate the space more easily on their own. This can help encourage engagement and build confidence. Accessibility can also help reduce stress for parents and caregivers. You can rest assured that your child is in a safe, accessible space.
- Skill development — Developing essential skills at a young age can have a major positive impact on the rest of your child’s life. Therapeutic preschool services can help your child build the skills they need. With tailored skill development programs like speech therapy, your child can get support each step of the way.
- Access to resources and equipment — A therapeutic preschool can offer much more than education. It can also provide access to essential resources and technology. Key resources can include social work and nursing support. Your child’s care team can also provide access to assistive technology. This can help accelerate their learning and skill development.
Your child can get the support they need at Ability KC’s therapeutic preschool
Ability KC can help set your child up for success. At the Mary Shaw Branton Therapeutic Preschool, we provide a range of services for young children ages 1-5 years old. Our team works to address the medical, educational and therapeutic needs of each child. Specific services include play-based therapies, physical therapy, a sensory garden and more. Our programs are made to help your child build skills that will offer lifelong benefits. Therapeutic preschool can be an ideal stepping stone to a brighter future for your child.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF). Our team also holds accreditations through the National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Contact us today for more information about our pediatric programs or to schedule an initial appointment.