The Preschool Autism Program consists of self-contained special education preschool classes for children ages 3 and 4 on the autism spectrum or children identified with intensive needs, housed in Prince George’s County Public Schools Early Childhood Centers. Students transition into the program based on their needs starting in a half-day program and moving to a full day program. Classes are typically smaller than other preschool classes, with a special educator and two paraprofessionals. As students show progress in acquiring and developing skills and indicate readiness for learning in a larger group setting, they are integrated into typical preschool classrooms or a preschool special education separate classroom for portions of their day. We use a transdisciplinary approach in which educators, related service providers, and families work together to support a successful learning environment. The program incorporates research-based interventions and strategies including, but not limited to the TEACCH Autism Program, Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), and Discrete Trial Training (DTT) with a focus on best practices. Communication, pre-academic, social, play and self-help skills are the main focus of the autism program. Interventions and strategies implemented are based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The preschool autism program places a strong emphasis on communication and the development of social skills. Children are taught with the use of accommodations, modifications, and visual supports.
The staff members meet regularly to conduct team debriefings, attend autism-specific trainings, and are supported by ongoing consultations with an Autism Specialist. The preschool strives to help students develop the skills necessary to be successful learners in typical elementary classroom settings or in a less restrictive environment. Teaching teams make home visits at least twice during the school year and follow-up visits are conducted on an as-needed basis. Ongoing communication between home and school is emphasized and family support group meetings are held to support families of children with autism spectrum disorders.
