A DAY IN CLASS
The Early Start Education setting provides children with autism a low student to teacher ratio. Our day program focuses on early intervention and meets the educational, physical, social and emotional needs of young children with Autism.
Early Start Education consists of highly trained staff who all have extensive experience working with children with Autism (ASD). Research shows that the earlier a child who has been diagnosed with Autism can begin early intervention, the more progress will be made, with a solid foundation for future learning.
We offer a unique and individualised teaching plan specific to each child so that each child can learn and develop at their own pace.
We endeavor to provide our children with learning experiences that will enrich their holistic development while maintaining confidence through a balanced mixture of fun and learning in a professional, friendly and safe environment.
"Help me to do it myself" - Maria Montessori
Our ASD School & What we do
Early Start Education ASD
Preschool
Our experience of working with children on the autism spectrum has given us the insight into methodologies that offer the most favourable results.
We use teaching methods which have scientifically proven effectiveness. Applied Behaviour Analysis and TEAACH is used on a daily basis. Aistear is part of the curriculum used.
PECS, and Lámh are used to facilitate communication. Visual schedules are used to provide clarity and routine for our students.
Our aim is to have increased social awareness and interaction with peers where by our children will interact on a weekly basis on social outings to various locations, eg. parks, indoor play areas and equine therapy.
Individual Education Plan
During the first few weeks in school, we observe each childs skills in order to develop an Individual Education Plan (IEP) around strengths & weaknesses using VBMAPP & ABLLS assessments under the supervison of our behavior therapist (BCBA).
We encourage parents to contribute to the program. Social skills, toileting, behavioural issues & verbal skills are all included
Our aim is to transition children into mainstream school where possible & to improve functional communication and successful participation in family daily life.
Class
Structure
Our classes are small, structured & provide an effective early education setting. Each class consists of a maximum of 6 children.
There is a teacher in each class with 3 experienced staff – a total of 4 qualified staff working per 6 children. All children are taught on a 1:1 basis as well as in small groups. This is to encourage turn taking, role play and social skills.
Our classes incorporate a mixture of learning through play & structured learning which is a vital part of their daily routine, which enhances their holistic growth.
Through play and social stories, our children learn about the world and about the give and take of relationships.
PILLARS OF OUR SCHOOL
6
Respect
Fun
Unique
Confidence