This half-day, center-based Early Learning program provides trans-disciplinary services to preschoolers with and without disabilities in public school buildings and childcare centers.
The program is designed to provide child-centered, enriched learning activities that are developmentally appropriate and aligned with the Ohio Department of Education Early Learning Content Standards. Classrooms are divided into interest centers such as art, dramatic play, block building, manipulatives and sensory. Materials and activities at each interest center are individualized for the children. Busy and quiet activities alternate and time is set aside for the children to meet as a group with the teacher for planned activities.
Students with disabilities benefit from small group instruction in a supportive environment that includes interacting with typically-developing preschool peer models.
Early Learning programs at the ESC are supported by a team of highly qualified and licensed/certified professionals, which may include a teacher, paraprofessional, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, physical therapist and adapted physical education teacher as deemed appropriate by an IEP team.
Itinerant preschool special education services are also available to assist children in their home, preschool or childcare setting. Staff work collaboratively with district personnel and families to support transition planning and develop and implement Individualized Education Program goals designed to meet the unique needs of preschoolers with a disability.
Services are provided in the child’s natural setting by a certified early childhood intervention specialist at a minimum of four hours per month.
For families of students with disabilities, please contact your district representative for more information about our Early Learning Program.
We also are in need of and encourage enrollment of children to serve as peer models. Each spring, information packets are distributed in districts where the ESC operates early learning programs.