Although Inner Circle ABA therapy programs that include school readiness do not replace school, they are designed to equip children with a number of academic skills that are essential for a strong start in school.
School readiness teaches these skills within programs designed to mirror activities, routines, and settings found in a typical school environment. This means that when children step into a real classroom they can do so with more confidence, independence, and familiarity with a new school environment. Below are just a few examples of classroom or “pre-academic” skills that Inner Circle ABA therapy programs with a school readiness component target to set children up for success in the classroom.
4 Classroom Skills that Enhance School Readiness for Children with Autism
- Following classroom routines: Because our programs that focus on school readiness are structured in part like a typical school day, children learn the routines and flow of a typical classroom. Skills like moving from task to task, remaining seated, and waiting in line are all vital to help children feel comfortable and confident as they move throughout their school day.
- Understanding the classroom: Teaching children the names of common classroom objects fosters independence and confidence in classroom settings. Inner Circle helps children familiarize themselves with the objects and tools they will interact with and use in a typical classroom.
- Following group and individual instructions: Following instructions is a critical skill for success in the classroom. Teaching this skill helps with classroom participation and academic readiness. More independent participation in the classroom provides children with more opportunities to build relationships with their peer group.
- Pre-academic skills: Although school readiness is not the same as school, Inner Circle ABA therapy incorporates basic prerequisites like colors, numbers, letters, days of the week, months of the year, and the names of common classroom objects into programs with a school readiness component. For example, while facilitating small group activities, children might sing songs about the days of the week or match colored blocks to their corresponding color names. Learning the basics helps prepare children for academic success and instills confidence in their abilities from the start.
Even though school readiness is not the same as school, learning basic academic skills helps prepare children for success when they encounter the real thing.
Learn more about Inner Circle’s approach to ABA therapy for school readiness.