SELMA DEITCH EARLY LEARNING
PROGRAM OVERVIEW

. . . . . The Program Goals

*To help each child reach his/her fullest potential.
*To prepare each child for maximum participation in educational activities in the least restrictive environment.

*To assist parents in developing skills and confidence in working with their children.

..... A Language Intensive, Therapeutic Preschool Program

The program actively and deliberately emphasizes language development through the use of specific instructional and therapeutic techniques which support, develop, and extend each child's communication abilities.

..... A Child-Centered Philosophy

We believe that young children enter school with their own unique sets of experiences. Our comprehensive curriculum addresses the needs of the whole child and is attentive to all aspects of early childhood education

..... A Balanced Mix of Activities

Program activities are developmentally appropriate for the preschool age and adapted to fit each child's current level of development. The activity-based curriculum emphasizes each child's strengths while addressing his/her individual needs.

..... Implementing Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

Classroom teachers and therapists work together to plan activities that develop and reinforce the goals outlined on each IEP. These activities are then woven into the daily curriculum themes and supported by teachers and therapists within the classroom setting. Activities which do not lend themselves to classroom learning are provided in smaller areas to individual or small groups of children.

..... Our Families

As the child's first and most important teachers, parents are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the child's education. Parent involvement opportunities include weekly classroom newsletters, a parent lending library, scheduled visits to the classroom, and frequent parent/teacher communication.

..... Transportation

..... Transportation is arranged for children with educational disabilities. Parents are responsible for transporting other children to and from school.

.....Other Services/Programs

..... Family Support, Home Programs, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Best Schools Early Childhood Community-Based Team, "Side by Side" Program, Music and Me, Parenting Support and Workshops, First Book Program/NHPTV, Parent Information Center Playgroups, Verizon Booksmart Family Literacy Center, Comprehensive Early Literacy Curriculum.