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Mar 02 2013
Should early intervention include preschool at age 3?
Community Question is a category inspired by you. Here and there readers write in with questions that are better served by the varied, experiential knowledge of those who read and contribute in the comments.
The following question is from Leah A.
"I've just read the comments on the post about homeschooling the little girl with Asperger's. I have a question for the community.
Our son, age two and a half, has just been diagnosed with autism. We are participating in our state's early intervention program and they are pushing us toward the public school system's preschool when he turns three. His doctor also wants him around other children so that he can learn to 'socialize, play, etc.' I'd like to find out from the community if they've been in a similar situation and what they would advise. We don't have a lot of options in our area and can't afford private schooling."
For those of you who have walked this road, what would you advise Leah about putting her son in the public school preschool at age 3?
168 Comments and 75 Replies
karla On Sunday, March 3 at 5:11 pm
Goodness gracious I have been (am still..) there. My son has been diagnosed with Autism at 2 1/2 and we have been getting school services for him since 18 months. We just started him in their preschool program in January and before that an aid was coming to our house. It was an incredibly hard diagnosis to receive but the school services for us has been invaluable. We live in a small suburb and I have been incredibly encouraged by the socialization with his peers. He has playdates with friends of course but getting to see children in a small group setting that are both above and behind him developmentally has been amazing. His teachers are super supportive and when I decided to enroll him (it is free for us since he has been diagnosed, we can't afford private either!!) I feel that we have a team behind us rather than just us trying to find our way in the dark. Best of luck, it is a hard but sweet road.
-also, not sure what state you are in but look into Medial Assistance and TEFRA. They pay for therapies that insurance doesn't cover.
Leah A On Sunday, March 3 at 7:36 pm
Thanks, Karla. I'm glad to hear that your son is doing so well!
Susan On Sunday, March 3 at 5:26 pm
I am a Speech Pathologist. I have worked on Pre-K evaluation teams here in NC for years.
This question, a broad one, about working on Early Intervention in a Public School classroom at the age of 3 is a broad question. These special education classrooms are designed and meant to really begin to address developmental delays at the very earliest stages. They are very beneficial for children who have pervasive developmental delays. Being in a classroom all day with a teacher who has the education and training to work with special needs children is an ideal environment for socialization and for providing therapies. As with anything else, a team of professionals makes a recommendation, and it is up to the parent to make big decisions for their little ones. Maybe there is an option for your child to go three days per week. Usually these kinds of placements operate along a continuum. Good luck making your decision! These teachers are very open to being observed and having parental input.
Making a yes/no kind of argument for questions such as this one is taking a very narrow view on a broad topic.
Donna O. On Sunday, March 3 at 6:18 pm
I admire your willingness to search out the best answers for your child!
There are many great answers here.
My DD was born with severe developmental disabilities, plus I lost a
twin during that pregnancy.
When my DD was 1-5 years old, I took her to many Pediatricians.
None helped us. It was her Pre-K screening which validated my
concerns. She received 5 solid years of OT/PT/Speech Language,
Peer Counseling, etc. these therapies made a huge difference.
I became her Advocate and through the years she has learned how to
Advocate for herself. Each State offers ,"Partners in Policymaking."
This course teaches how to get through The Special Education Maze.
I believe it is never to early to begin intervention, educating yourself and
speaking with families who have gone through intervention. I learned
so much! Good luck to you.
catherine On Sunday, March 3 at 6:23 pm
Structured socialization is therapeutic for a child on the spectrum. In any case, EI ends the day before a child turns 3yo. While it can be extended to either 8/31 or 12/31 whichever comes first that year, an extension can only happen after going through the preschool special education eligibility process and being found eligible.
Timmarie On Sunday, March 3 at 6:29 pm
My son went to developmental preschool through the school district when he was 3 after being diagnosed with autism at 2. I LOVED it, and more importantly he LOVED it. It also gave him the ability to have speech and OT in a group setting, which was different than the 1 on 1 he received outside of school. I think it is important to ask questions and to keep in close contact with the teacher. Most preschools use a multitude of therapeutic approaches within their classroom.
I think it is also important to let you know that if you do not want to send your child, you are still entitled to receive speech, OT, PT (or whatever services they qualify for). You just have to bring your child in at the appropriate time.
It is hard to send your 3 year old to school, but research supports that the more intervention they get early on, the more results you usually see. Best of luck to you.
maggie On Sunday, March 3 at 6:31 pm
All Life is Education. God does not limit your learning to a specific amount of time; not 1 year or 100 years. Provideing your Child with Love & encouragement will have the biggest impact & make the most difference in the Quality of life you live.
Pattiann On Sunday, March 3 at 6:47 pm
My youngest (now 8 years old) and his twin sister went to the public preschool in our area (an Abbott District in New Jersey) at the age of 3.5 years. It was there that his issues were formally addressed. He was diagnosed with ADHD/ODD – we also obtained a second opinion at our local children's hospital, which helped us know that he needed help in ways we could not. He also needed ST/OT/PT for other issues.
The school, teachers and therapists were wonderful and he did grow and learn in that setting – he was in the same school until he graduated Pre-K when we changed to the public elementary school. During kindergarten we had some setbacks, but the school and I worked together to help him and help himself to grow, learn, make friends, solve problems and be productive. It has worked! I am proud to say that he is in a really good 2nd grade classroom (inclusion) with many friends and good grades.
If you do decided to send your child to public school, you can ask that he be evaluated in a classroom setting by the school to see what services he qualifies for during the school year. You will attend meetings for what is called an IEP (Individual Education Plan) which allows you and the school to come up with what works to help your child succeed in school. It's like an action plan – they will set goals for your child to achieve and how they will help him to succeed. It is an overwhelming task to do, but if you go in with an open mind to their ideas and techniques, it can be very successful for everyone!
You need to be your child's advocate. If you feel you are overwhelmed, there are people available that you can hire to advocate for your child and be your voice. Read everything you can about your child's diagnosis. Ask questions – lots of questions – if you are unsure. If something in your gut says no, then explore it, question it and talk with the people who are trying to help you. It's okay to cry when you are overwhelmed – I have many times in front of therapists and teachers because they know what I am going through on a daily basis.
Best of luck with your decision!
Leah A On Sunday, March 3 at 7:39 pm
Thanks, Pattiann!
Samantha On Sunday, March 3 at 7:20 pm
My now 8 year old daughter has autism and my saving grace was the early intervention preschool. She started at age 3. My recommendation to anyone with a special needs child is to get the highest level/most severe medical diagnosis you can and use that to get your child as many services as possible. It is easy to go broke getting your child the services needed and the resources in the public school system can be phenomenal. Private therapies as well are wonderful. My daughter's preschool teacher has been a wonderful resource over the years to descretely make me aware of services available in our school district (she is not able to publicly advocate for my daughter now as that is a conflict of interest as the county employs her). My daughter entered the school system under the diagnosis of "developmental delay". We were pleased she wasn't "labeled" autistic, but were unaware that the diagnosis of autism qualified her for more speech and OT. My best advise is to establish the best relationship possible with your child's teacher and therapists, be a team player, but also an advocate for your child's needs. Request conferences with them so you can learn from them. They have skills they can teach you to help your child (and yourself) have an easier time navigating life with autism.
Jean On Sunday, March 3 at 7:45 pm
I've walked the early childhood special ed road with my youngest (very early premie), and I can say that early childhood intervention can help you tons, but you have to be super involved as well. Go and observe the class that they want to put your child in. Ask lots of questions. We talked our early childhood special ed program into letting our child go into a regular preschool program as most of her problems were severe motor delays, not behavioral. But we never would have known to even ask for that if we hadn't observed the classes and been involved. I hope your district is as accommodating to an involved parent as ours was. If it is, you should totally take them up on whatever help they offer. Good luck!
kathy On Sunday, March 3 at 8:15 pm
I am a pre-k teacher and have been in early education for over 25 years. I also teach at a local university in their early childhood program. I am a firm believer in early intervention and socialization for every child. If you go and visit the classroom where your son is to be, and you have a good feeling….trust your gut. I know it is hard, but it may be the catalyst that makes the different in your child's school success. I won't go on and on, you have had lots of excellent folks provide information and I would not teach pre-k if I did not believe that it makes a difference! Good luck and best wishes to you and your son.
jen On Sunday, March 3 at 8:41 pm
In California, the Lanterman Act puts school districts in charge of special education of those with developmental delays and disabilities at age 3. My son fell into that category (developmental delays and a diagnosis of autism also at age 2 1/2) and the school district met with me to tell me what options I had. They did testing and luckily, the local state-run preschool 1/2 a block away has an ABA class. When we went in for his IEP, I got to meet the teachers and ask any questions I had. The ABA teacher invited me to come visit the class and observe and even gave us her cell phone number in case we had questions.
My son has been in school for 1 year and he is a completely different kid. He still isn't speaking (autistic kids generally have problems with this) but he understands routines and rules better, he interacts with people well, and he can communicate using a PECS book. In my situation, it was the best option (homeschool and private schooling were out) and I have no regrets.
Melinda On Sunday, March 3 at 9:17 pm
Dear Leah,
I'm not a mother, but I'm going to share a story about my friend's younger brother who also diagnosed with autism. His mother decided to enrolled to a preschool when he was three. Although the teachers need to be careful and watched him a lot, but I can say that Michael is quite well functioned despite his autism. He also capable of socializing with friends although somewhat limited. But compared to other kids with autism I have to say Michael is quite capable. I hope this will help you to decide whether or not to enrolled your son to a preschool. But if you're worried about bullying maybe you should discuss about your son condition to the teacher and saw their reaction first, I found some school are quite tolerant towards children with special needs like your son (this is if you choose a public preschool and not some specialized school which are more capable of dealing with such children) and some school are just ignorant towards those children. knowing that the teachers and the school will be tolerant to your son's special need will ease your worries and made sure that your son will not be having difficult times at school. You mention that you don't have a lot of options in your area, so maybe finding out whether the school will be perfect for your son's need will be better.
Sam On Sunday, March 3 at 9:38 pm
Both of my sons were diagnosed with delays as toddlers. What we discovered was that the older one had true delays (and was finally diagnosed 'correctly' as on the autism spectrum just a month ago-he just turned 8yo) and my younger son-exactly 1 year younger-was delayed because his best friend/almost twin/only kid he saw was delayed. I taught them toddler sign language since they didn't talk and they got along ok at home with my SIL watching them. But when the school district tested them and recommended the ESE Pre-K class age 3-5 in a local school I was just like you…not sure what I should do! I ended up visiting the school, asking alot of questions and then I decided to try it out-since only 1 son would go in at age 3 and I could always pull him out if it didn't work. Let me tell you it was the BEST thing I ever did!! Not only did it expose them both to other kids (the younger son went in the next year when he turned 3), but they learned so much more that we couldn't teach at home. And wonder of all wonders, at 3.5yo my silent kiddo looked up at me from playing one day and said his 1st word "Mom" and pointed at me. After that he began talking more and more, and I think being around so much different stuff at school helped facilitate that, as well as his other issues. Also, both my boys are very sensitive to other special kids and their needs, especially my younger son (who is now 7yo). He used to escort a little girl with Down's everywhere and would talk non-stop about her. I am glad I decided to try it out. Mind you we had speed bumps along the way…like the time my younger son spit in his teachers face, or the older one would cry and not do any work. But overall it was worth it. Good luck Momma!!
Erin L. On Sunday, March 3 at 10:15 pm
We had the same thing happen our son was diagn. at 1yr3mos we started in Birth to Three which is a wonderful program. Then when he turned 3 we did enroll him in the HeadStart I love the program my oldest had went when we lived in another state but I was concerened because my youngest little guy had Autism so I opted to have him only go half a day and I go with him.. I felt uncomfortable leaving him alone he doesnt talk, know dangers, and hes not potty trained. I am now at the point where I will leave him for an hour or so to run errands and we are now working up to him going a whole day soon but I want him to be potty trained before he does then work on him being without me… I know it is scarry as it was and still is for me but I did find that here they worked with me on anything I felt would work for him and so far I have no complaints my advice is take it in steps try a couple half days and go with your child and then go from there… good luck hope this helps
Sally On Sunday, March 3 at 10:22 pm
I am an OT in a public school system in the Oklahoma City area. I'm a member of the intake team that performs assessments on children 3-5 years old who may require special education services, and I also work with those children once they begin school. In 16 years of experience I will tell you that early intervention is critical to helping children with special needs, especially children with ASD, reach their maximum potential. I know as a parent it seems scary to have your 3 year old baby come to school, but truly it is a gift if you have a supportive program.
Obviously all programs are not the same, however the earlier you allow your precious baby to become exposed to teachers and therapists who can help your child become more comfortable in a learning environment the more growth you will see. The longer children on the spectrum wait before receiving services the more I see dysfunctional behaviors become entrenched. A good staff can not only help your child become less anxious and more self-confident in many environments, they can also help you with techniques to use at home and refer you to outside resources to help you on your journey.
Please don't get hung up on the idea of special education. All good special education programs have the goal of helping children become as independent as possible. By starting at 3 in a small classroom with experienced staff your child is far more likely to be able to transition to a regular education environment in the future.
I've worked with countless families over the years, and everyone enters special education with anxiety. We can't fix everything or work miracles, but our parents who come in fearful or confrontational are always sad to leave when it's time for their child to move up to a new program in first grade.
So my recommendation is for you to give your public school program a chance. If it is like ours the teachers and therapists will be committed to helping your child and your family in every way possible. Best wishes.
Sherry On Monday, March 4 at 6:48 am
We have three sons. Our oldest son (now 16) was speech delayed at age three and we were directed toward the preschool program for therapy. We were extremely disappointed witht he program because he received absolutely no speech therapy so after four months, we pulled him out of the program and worked with him on our own at home. It helped that our middle son had advanced speech development from age one so he helped his older brother overcome his problem and by the time our oldest was 6 he no longer had problems with speech.
Our youngest son (now 12) was diagnosed with Highly-Functional Autism at age 6. We homeschool but were once again directed to the school system for assistance. Once again no assistance received but did find a excellent therapy center. They worked wonders with him. He is more like a late bloomer now than a child with Autism.
If we had to do it over again with our older son, we would have sought out a good speech therapist separate from the school system. So thankful that we took the route of the specialized therapy center for our youngest. From what I have heard from other parents with children with Autism, they receive very poor services from the school system. Of course, you don't have to pay for those services and if you aren't fortunate enough to have insurance that covers therapy then that would be your only choice. We are fortunate to have insurance that coveres a large portion of our son's therapy and even some very specialized therapy (Interactive Metronome Therapy) that most insurance companies don't cover. I highly recommend the the IM Therapy for any child with Austim, ADD and ADHD if you can find a center that offers it and your insurance will cover a portion of the cost. It is extremely expensive if you don't have insurance coverage.
Tammy Eubank On Monday, March 4 at 7:15 am
I love when parents are so involved with the upbringing of their children and don't jump every time a doctor or other "official" say to do so. I have been a licensed family child care provider in our home for since the 80's and I've always encouraged my parents to stand up for their children because they depend on you. I also want to encourage every one to get their children into some group activity whether it be preschool in a school setting, day care centers, family day care homes :-), or some activity (soccer or gymnastics). Anything at all that involves group activities. Children need to learn how to interact with their peers. It's sooo much easier when they are younger. Parents can teach the ABC's and 123's (and should be apart of their fun time with you) but the communication and that compromise that is learned playing with a peer is so vital at a young age. Remember these are the building years and a solid foundation has to be strong. Really happy to see posts like this and to see the love the children are getting. Whether you have a child with "special needs" or not children learn from each other the good and the bad. A great parent such as yourself with be able to use those moments as great teachable moments to build a rock steady adult. (I put quotes around special needs because I truly believe all kids have special needs… every child needs to be nurtured differently and it's up to the adults to meet those needs. ) Best of luck. I know your child will come out on top because of all the love and attention you give.
Kimberly On Monday, March 4 at 7:21 am
Some really good ideas here, just wanted to bring up a few others.
You know your child and your school district so much better than anybody here. My only advice is to weigh the opinions of the doctors, educators, and therapists carefully. Of course you know your child; but that is no reason to disregard the opinions of the experts. It also does not mean you should blindly follow the opinions of the experts.
The best advice I can tell you is to keep an open mind. Listen to the experts and make the best decision you can for you.
Diana Opiela On Monday, March 4 at 8:56 am
I agree with Kimberly. Think of yourself as the CEO of your child's well being and doctors, therapists, teachers, friends and family may be on the Board of Directors. They are great resources and each can provide vital information, assistance and education. But ultimately, you are the CEO of your family!
Georgia On Monday, March 4 at 8:19 am
My answer is definately yes! I have 2 children with Autism.14 yr old was diagnosed PDD-NOS at age 3 andimmediately started pre school and state therapy.I believe it helped him a lot. My other son, 13 yrs old is Severe-Mod.Autism, non-verbal. He was diagnosed at 2 yr old. Though he is still non-verbal, he has benefited tremendously because of early intervention and starting pre-school at 3 yrs. I believe the interaction with many adults/children from school is a huge benefit and getting into the routine of school early and young. Every child and family are different. But it was a good choice for us. Good luck!
Diana Opiela On Monday, March 4 at 8:53 am
Hi Leah,
First of all, congratulations on reaching out to help with this big decision. Educating yourself about your child and the options for your son is the best thing you can do for him right now. I confess, I have not read all the comments, but i hope you do.
I'll try and be quick about my experience. My son is 17 and was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome in 2nd grade; but he could have been diagnosed sooner if we had done things differently. Here's why.
We put him in a pre-school program at our local college where "teachers are teaching teachers." This was the first professional indication that we had that our son was different. Being that he was my first child, I didn't know any better. Based on feedback from the director at this preschool, we had our son tested for a variety of things including hearing loss. We had him screened with the school district at age 3 expecting them to find some delays based on this initial "red flag," but all they found was a lag fine motor skills development. The next year, when he was 4, I changed jobs, changed day care providers and thus could not have him in the excellent preschool he was in prior. For the next two years, he was in a private day care (still better than a chain style I believe), but the staff there were not educated in special needs, or even how to look out for them. So, our son could have had more opportunities for getting diagnosed earlier and have earlier interventions if we had stayed with the excellent preschool. We also could have avoided so much stress and heartache. Kindergarten was the next time a professional (the teacher) had some concerns that our son was "different." Once my son was officially diagnosed in 2nd grade, and finally when he had an IEP in 4th grade, things got better. Of course, by then we were in the regular school system and we are fortunate to have a great special ed program. My son has always been in regular classes, with some special ed support. It has worked out for us in the end; but I think had we started with interventions earlier and an IEP going into kindergarten it could have been better and less stressful for everyone – him, us and the teachers!
Along the way, I think we tried every "treatment" there is over the years. I live in Illinois if that helps. Good luck to you and please feel free to reach out if you would like more details about our story.
Carol On Monday, March 4 at 9:31 am
Having been a preschool teacher for years I firmly believe that parents can and should do a better job of teaching. A preschool setting–one full of eager busy kids or a developmental one full of other children with varying limitations–can be more harming than helpful. Make sure your child has lots of stimulation from others at his own pace. Others being you and family, people you see daily i.e. clerks at stores, librarians, mailman, friends, etc. If you have a faith affiliation that has a Sunday school that is a good option or perhaps start a small playgroup at your home. Start small–one or two kids for about 30-45 minutes, playdo and other toys available.
Talk to your child and expect an answer. Don't make excuses for him and answer for him when you're with others. The biggest mistake that parents make (and I've seen it over and over again) is using the diagnostic label to limit and define the child. Talk with him as you drive, cook, clean, shop, etc.
As others have pointed out, you know your child best, but after having taught preschool for many many years I firmly believe that dropping a child off at school for "socialization" reasons is not the best option. Far better to spend the time with him and help him yourself. Best of luck!! It's a tough decision to make and I wish you the best.
To Carol On Tuesday, March 5 at 12:38 pm
A special needs child would go to a special needs pre school, not one you work at. FYI You obviously don't have much experience working with non-typical children, due to your response. You are the typical judgemental self proclaimed expert, when in reality you have no clue on how to truely deal with a special needs child. Ignorance…
Summer On Monday, March 4 at 9:51 am
At this point, you will want and need as much help as you can get. Early intervention is absolutely necessary for your daughter. Although you may want to choose another path later, the public school system is one of the best resources for assistance. My nephew had severe autism dx at age 2. My sister hesitantly put him in the free resources the school district offered. She also was able to get free home therapists that came daily through the school. (In Orange County), and this was not income based. She also looked for outside resources, and continued her own therapy on a constant basis with him. She chose to go meds free for him and found a doctor that used vitamin/supplement/nutrition very tailored for his needs. When he was 5, the therapy did become income based, so she lost the free therapists. She decided to have him in public school, he had improved by leaps and bounds, but she stayed very involved. She communicated with his teachers on a daily basis and made sure they were all following the same therapy/behavior discipline that she was at home. He is now 11 and although still has autism, appears to others as a normal, healthy boy. He has also transitioned into a private Christian school, not because of religion, but because my sister researched like crazy and found one that met his needs and was affordable, although they make big sacrifices to afford it. My sister was a special education teacher for many years, and in her case, homeschooling her autistic son would not meet his needs. There are many HARD decisions to make, BUT, one thing I have seen in comparing children who learn to function well in society is that early intervention is KEY and getting as much help as you can from as many resources as you can will greatly increase her chances of life success. Don't try to do it on your own. You need the emotional and mental support of trained professionals, and so does your daughter.
D On Monday, March 4 at 10:05 am
No preschool. Keep him at home where you have control of what he is being taught. As far as socialization. You choose who he should socialize with by going to play groups, childrens exercise groups, dance class, or martial arts classes with him. I also would encourage you to look into putting him on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet to see if it improves his behaviours. Go to the Breaking the Vicious Cycle website and find out more about it.
Lisa J. On Monday, March 4 at 10:07 am
My son is currently in an Early Intervention program and he will be 4 in a couple of months. He loves going to school and having school at home. He goes to the public school early intervention program two times a week – he is NOT required to go every day- and we have school at home Mon – Wed – Friday. I like being able to do this with him because it gets him the help that he needs with a therapist but still keeps him with me most of the time. We will eventually be homeschooling.
Hope this helps!
Lynn H On Monday, March 4 at 10:24 am
I agree with the other parents to trust your instincts. I will speak from my own experience. My son has benefitted tremendously from public school. He did Pre-K in a private school and in our state, that is treated like daycare. He had a wonderful teacher, but the administrator left a lot to be desired. She had little to no knowledge of child development and it showed! She was unwilling to work with him (unable).
I can't homeschool. I am a single parent. I am so grateful to the public school system where my son is getting the help he needs. It is not perfect, but he has a great teacher and a great principal and when I have concerns, they are addressed. And if they aren't, there is a system in place to address them at another level.
Whatever issue your child is facing — autism, Asberger's, etc — early intervention is KEY. It is so critical to their development and overcoming what seems to be insurmountable. Public school is a good place for this because federal law mandate services for our children and they are mandated early. I agree with your doctor. You will be able to look back and see the progress. Continue to be the great advocate you are and speak up when something isn't working. Blessings on your journey!
Jennifer On Monday, March 4 at 10:35 am
My daughter is now 11 and consider gifted & talented. We never, in our wildest dreams, would have thought this possible. She was diagnosed as "globally delayed" (we did not have her officially tested for autism as this was the time when insurance companies were giving people with that diagnosis major hassles).
She started receiving state provided, in home services at age 2. As she neared age 3, they wanted her to go to a state funded preschool, with a mix of special needs kids, low income kids, and peer models. The problem was that she could not even go to a class, such as a music or dance class, without having a major breakdown (the therapists tried). She would become hysterical (she was non-verbal) and just pound on the door to leave. So the therapists started a "preschool readiness" class for my daughter and a few other kids. She would go once a week for about an hour, and do classroom-like activities, led by a therapist, with a few child-parent pairs.
The point of all this is that the therapists were so amazing and led my daughter, step by step, through exactly what she needed to grow and thrive. She went to the state funded preschool for 2 years, and made amazing progress.
Our early years were all about therapy. They were all about helping her get through her many and varied issues. It was hard and stressful, and I questioned what we were doing constantly. Was it the right path? Was it too much? Was it enough?
The bottom line is, I am 100% sure that my daughter would not be where she is today (academically thriving, socially fitting in, self-confident, and happy) if it were not for all of the early intervention. I couldn't imagine that we would find so many people who cared about her development as much as we did, as her parents. And yet, caring folks were everywhere! It was truly amazing.
My advice is to take advantage of every opportunity presented for your child with special needs. You can always pull them out if you decide it is not going well or if you find a better opportunity.
It is a long and very hard road, and I know I got so much encouragement from other parents who were traveling on it as I was. Good luck!
Lisa B On Monday, March 4 at 11:10 am
Both my girls attended preschool at the age of 3. The oldest attended a 1/2 day mother's day out program at a church. The youngest attended a daycare that had a preschool program. While I did read to my girls a lot and worked on things like the alphabet, colors, shapes and such at home when they were preschoolers, I know that they learned a lot at preschool that I couldn't teach them at home. I think that it prepared them for elementary school because they learned so many skills while at preschool. I have a granddaughter who was adopted at the age of 6 by our oldest daughter and son-in-law. She was in an orphanage her entire life in Bulgaria. They had school, but not like we do here in the States. She didn't benefit from having a good preschool program and has had to spend so much time to come up to grade level. She is 9 yrs. old now and in 2nd grade (1 grade level behind at school) and she is reading at 2nd grade level (should be at 3rd grade level) and struggles with math. She is a very smart girl, but because she didn't learn all of those pre-math and pre-reading skills like they do in preschool programs here in the States, she has to work harder than most kids her age to catch up. Fortunately our daughter is also a special needs teacher and lots of remedial resources at her fingertips. Kaitlyn even goes "to school" in the summertime (she doesn't realize other kids don't go to school) because my daughter has her work on reading and math skills every day at home. So I can see a huge benefit to a child attending preschool after seeing how much time and effort my granddaughter has to spend catching up. Her favorite thing to do now is reading – she'll pick out a book and we take turns reading pages to one another – so precious!
Kitty Hart On Monday, March 4 at 11:18 am
I don't have a child with autism, but a child with ADHD and dyslexia, and another with Selective Mutism. My girls attended public school here in Florida and my experience was that the teachers just couldn't keep up with all of the kids who had special needs. We decided to homeschool when they were in 3rd and 4th grade. My daughter with Selective Mutism- her therapist was appalled and felt I was going to make her worse. In fact, the opposite was true. Not being bombarded with constant interaction all day and the anxiety it produced helped my daughter to ease into social situations and gradually learn to deal with them. She is now 14 and rarely has a flare up of anxiety. She is confident in new social settings. My other daughter was able to build confidence in her ability to learn and was able to lose the idea that she was stupid. She is now 16 and back in public school where she feels smart and successful. That being said- I am not a teacher, and have never wanted to be one. It's been a tough journey for me and we used Florida Virtual School for their education- I didn't do the teaching. It's a lot to take on, and I'm glad my girls got the basics from school before coming home to school.
Of Welcome Alani Pi To Hogtied On Monday, March 4 at 11:21 am
Why viewers still use to read news papers when in this technological globe
all is presented on web?
Mary Leigh On Monday, March 4 at 11:53 am
I am currently an aide to a student with low-functioning autism and will graduate with my Special Education Moderate to Intensive Bachelor's degree in August. I highly recommend early intervention. Especially with Autism. In our area our county board of Developmental Disabilities has an integrated preschool which means each classroom has 6 typically developing children and 6 children with disabilities. This is such a great idea in my mind because both groups of children benefit. I have seen many student's that have not gotten early intervention services that are now behind and struggle even more. I'm not sure what the options are where you are but I would highly recommend some sort of early intervention. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. ([email protected])
Lauren C On Monday, March 4 at 11:59 am
I am a Speech-Language Pathologist in a public school. The preschool classrooms for developmentally-delayed students are designed to provide early intervention for a variety of student needs, in a functional setting. Your child will learn a variety of skills in the same environment in which he will need to use those skills. He will not only learn to socialize, he will learn to cope with his unique communicative, sensory, and academic needs. I am not a mother, but I can understand how frightening this time may feel to you and your family. I urge you to accept the help being offerred to you. Those of us in the field of special education will not have the same expertise as you, your son's mother; but your son needs a full spectrum of teachers, specialists, and family members all working together in his daily life. Despite this diagnosis, your child can learn how to adapt to and thrive in a variety of environments as he grows up. Preschool is the best place to start. Wishing you and your family all the best!
Karen On Monday, March 4 at 1:30 pm
I'm speaking as someone who has worked with autistic children and someone who is a friend of a couple raising a severely autistic daughter (she's 16).
Definitely – the earlier you can get your child working with speech and language, physical therapy, etc, etc, the better. You are going to need help. The other reason I strongly recommend intervention is that being a parent of a special needs child can be very isolating. It will help you to meet and network with other parents who are going through the same thing. Make sure that you nurture your marriage and get time away every week to just be together with your husband.
God bless you and your family.
Heidi On Monday, March 4 at 1:47 pm
I have worked in SPED in a school district for the past 7 years. There is always going to be different opinions and needs of every child and family, I suggest thoroughly investegating your options within the school district, speak with parents whom are receiving services now, ask to observe the classroom where they would place your child. Be proactive in decisions, ask questions if something doesn't sound right or make any sense to you. Know you can always choose not to accept their services if your child doesn't make progress or is unhappy. Know that most educators have your childs best interest at heart! And your doctor is right, good role models, although not just that, is a good tool to use with socialization. I hope this helps.
Kim On Monday, March 4 at 3:45 pm
I have walked in your shoes. My son was diagnosed with Autism at 4. He is now almost 16. He has gone from a mostly nonverbal child to a fairly well functioning adolescent with learning disabilities.
My advice is to get your child into therapy as quickly as possible. As soon as a problem has been identified, make a plan and follow the plan.
2. Ask your pediatrician if your daughter is eligible for the early childhood intervention program This federal program covers children from 0-3. Your child still has a chance to qualify for services, such as in home occupational therapy, diet counseling, speech therapy, and physical therapy. The program is geared to have the family involved in the providing the therapy. Obviously, do this as soon as possible. The fees are based on ability to pay. I wish I had known my son's diagnosis early on.
3. Contact your school now and ask what the 3 year preschool program will provide for a child with a mental disability. Not all public schools are equal. Go and visit. See about being a volunteer aid in your child's class room; both, to keep an eye on her and to learn how to handle her evolving abilities.
I am in Texas, and public schools can provide speech, occupational, and physical and other therapy if it is in the interests of furthering academic development. We choose to fill in the gaps by providing our son with physical, occupational, speech and vestibular therapy using our insurance.
4. Reach out to support groups. Talk with families in the waiting rooms as your child undergoes therapy. They will tell you what their experiences have been with medications, doctors, therapist and school districts
5. Your husband and you need to make time together as a couple. Caretaker burnout is a real problem at some points in a child's development. .
6. Allow family to help. Let Grandmother take her to therapy and dad to the eye doctor. It doesn't all fall to you. This can decrease your daily stress and allow other people to bond with your daughter,
7. Find a doctor who is familiar with the Defeat Autism Now! (DAN!)protocols. Not all of these protocols will work for all autistic children, but some will.
God has blessed you with a unique and wonderful individual. Take courage.
Dawn On Monday, March 4 at 4:36 pm
I'm not sure about all areas, but in NY state schools must provide specialized assistance to all kids who qualify – whether they are homeschooled or not. Check with your state's department of education for specifice guidelines for your state. It very well may be that your child may not need to go to the school for the program.
For example: my neighbor homeschooled her older kids, but her 3+ year old required specialized occupational therapy. The school district was responsible for providing this, and the therapist came to her home.
lbc115 On Monday, March 4 at 6:11 pm
I am a teacher and mother to 2 sons with varying special needs. If you plan to have him attend public school when he's 'school age', the early intervention will help your entire family get accustomed to both the IEP process and services. Get ready for 2 steps forward, 1 step back in terms of seeing progress. Research a lot about every aspect of your son's needs, what the system provides and ask lots of questions in IEP meetings about what he is going to receive in terms of services (and how will you know, what will be the follow through on their end?) Assume that professionals are professionals until they give you any evidence otherwise and don't be afraid to trust your 'gut'. Be patient, find a support group.
Davina On Monday, March 4 at 7:58 pm
As an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher working with children 3-5 years old I believe in Early Intervention. Yes you as a parent are in charge of your child's education and yes you will make the choices that you feel are right for your child. However, you also need to remember that the EI's are not trying to steer you down the wrong path, they are steering you towards a path that has been proven time and time again. Is it always right for everyone all of the time? No, but no school is right 100% of the time for a typical functioning child. Until your child turns 3 you are allowed to have services provided to you and your child at your house. After your child turns three the law states that services must be provided in a preschool/ daycare environment and only in severe cases can the services continue to be provided at the home.
Children learn through play with their same age peers. The learning takes place during the interaction with their peers. The peer modeling and influence. Please keep that in mind as you are thinking this through. While you can provide a strong academic environment at home, you can no matter how hard you try provide a rich play environment like the one you would get with your child being in a classroom. You also don't have to send them five days a week from 8-3. You can have your child go two or three days a week for 2-3 hours.
Good Luck in your decision.
TrainMom On Monday, March 4 at 8:36 pm
I have both an Autistic son (8) Dx at 2.5 and a recently Dx Aspie son (12). The older one went to a private PK but not until age 4 nearly 5 we have an August age cut for school. He excelled in in PK but has always advanced hence why it took so long for his Aspie dx. Our younger son was delayed almost from birth, born at 39 weeks was a peanut in size 5.13 while his older brother was a near preemie(36 weeks) of normal baby size at 7.3. Had nearly identical pregnancies with both right down to the sciatica issues. I truly believe without the wonderful PK program that youngest went to he would not be in a mainstream classroom at this time. He does experience a few delays still in reading and his speech can be difficult to understand at times but we are very pleased. The program he attended has changed a little in the four years he has been out of it. When he attended it was a three county co-op with our county being the main county and it was housed about a quarter mile north of our home. Three years ago over the course of a year they split from the co-op and two years ago the teachers and aides he had moved to the built for kindergarten (2006-07, oldest son was in the first class to use it) wing of our school a quarter mile south of our home. Which is perfect for the PK program huge rooms that my kids were both able to take advantage of as Kinders and his teachers have been able to see his progress since 2007-08. Without the school supported program I don't think we could have paid for the OT/PT/Speech therapy that he received, had great insurance.
We have the same Autism specialist (K) in second grade that we had in PK and I think we will have him until youngest graduates…the years of the change over did get kind of sticky with the specialist (K) and since his isn't a severe case he did move for the change over years to the back burner, received the same services DK, K and First, for which they apologized multiple times, we just had to tweak them more between first and second grade resulting in a three hour IEP meeting. The did set us up with a private Autism therapist (M) worked for years with the PK program which our insurance covers. His classroom aide (C) from last year now works privately with him at school, every other week though she is now working with another private autism therapy practice. So now as a second grader he has his regular ed classroom whose teacher has a SE degree, two classes that he has extra help with also with teachers with SE degrees. Weekly Speech, OT and visited twice a month by a autism therapist at school (C) and then every three weeks we have another private appt with another autism therapy appointment (M) and then the school corp autism guy (K) visits him two-three times year.
Amber On Monday, March 4 at 8:44 pm
I recently had several of my (babysitting) charges start school at the normal age of 4/5 years old and honestly I feel they would have adjusted better had they been in pre-school when they were 3. They all are very different (I babysit for a church) but they all had a horrible time adjusting to school. Special needs or not a pre-school program will help them slowly adjust to a school schedule.
Also my little sister entered a special needs program early for a speech problem and my mom has been forever thankful that she listened to a neighbor and had my sister tested and placed in the program. My little sister now has a masters degree in Behavior Analysis and went through nearly all of school with a 4.0. Both her and my mom strongly support the public school system, while I am a little more open minded. Any program will help as long as they are not being isolated and the people teaching are qualified.
My best advice (I am also a high school teacher) is listen when anyone mentions something they have noticed with your child, don't ignore anything. Your child attending pre-school early will at least give teachers and other professionals a chance to observe him and get him ready for a normal school day.
Anne On Monday, March 4 at 9:27 pm
Only you can make the right choice for your child and your family. A few things to consider: The school district is obligated to provide services in the "least restrictive enviroment". For each child that will mean something different. For my daughter (cognitive and physicaly disabilities) the public preschool at age 3 was not going to meet her needs. I visited the preschool, asked questions and then voiced my concerns regarding their inability to care for her. She continued to recieve in home services until age 4 1/2. She then attended preschool for one year before starting kindergarten.
Visit the school, observe the classroom for a few hours, ask the teachers how issues specific to your child would be handled (feeding, toileting, having a melt down, etc.). Ask about teacher and staff training in dealing with the disabilities your child has. Find out about teacher & aide ratio to child. Learn what a daily schedule might look like. Ask yourself if you would feel comfortable having your child in that enviornment.
The school may try to push you into placing your child into the preschool because, frankly, it is less expensive to serve a child in a classroom than in their home. But, as a parent, it is ultimately up to you to decide what is best for your child.
Tish On Monday, March 4 at 9:55 pm
My daughter was born with Down Syndrome. She has received at home therapies since she was 3 months old. At the age of 3 she started pre-school through the early intervention program through the state. I was so scared to send her and cried and cried up until the first day of school. She could not talk but a few words, and could not walk (at this time she used a walker). She was attending 3 hours a day for 4 days a week. She loved it and by then end of the week she knew where we were going. Mattie started Kindergarten this year and I went through the same emotions and once again she loves it. She is in a special needs class. I noticed my daughter coming out of her shell since she started pre-school. She was playing with other kids in class, starting singing songs, After her first year of pre-school she was able to sign the primary colors and even impressed her pediatrician. After her second year she was starting to write her name and getting use to using the restroom. Every week she had little homework assignment (find a picture beginning with a certain letter and either find a object in this shape or color). The pre-school helped her get into a routine. She was also receiving OT, ST, and PT. The teachers that are in the classes and the aids usually are experienced in working with kids with special needs. Some have teachers have different backgrounds geared towards different disabilities. It also helped my husband and I. We were able to see my daughter do things and learn things and socialize with kids her own age. We were seeing what she is capable of and breaking out of her shell. I know people have had bad experiences and I never had a problem, except one time and the problem was dealt with immediately. My daughter always had good teachers. I personally think it is a good idea. You still have control over your child and you don't have to do the 4 day a week program you can do the 2 days, 1 days. It all depends on the school and how the program is set up. When I meet moms and they ask me I tell them give it a shot, and see how it goes. Things can always be changed and switched. If it does not work then at least you gave it a chance.
Lee Brennan On Monday, March 4 at 11:13 pm
Why not try it? You can always quit and start again at age 4. I suppose there are good programs and not so good programs, but in my experience it is the specific teacher or therapist that matter. I was very reluctant to send my 3 year old with global developmental delays but was convinced to give it a try. I was so nervous I even insisted on riding the bus with her the first day. It turned out that she had a wonderful teacher and the whole preschool experience, bus and all, was great.
Jacquie On Monday, March 4 at 11:21 pm
Hi Leah A.! So thoughtful of you to reach out to the online community and receive so many responses! I am an Educational Assistant up here in Canada and I don't know much about your school district. I do have some suggestions of things for you. Is there an option for gradual entry? Going for 1-2 hours/day for the first couple of weeks? Is there 1:1 support in the classroom like in Canada? At the preschool level will they have an Individual Education Plan in place (these can range from independently putting their jacket on to doing multiplication)? What is their level of speech? Do they have any medical/physical concerns that can/cannot be met at the school? Do you already have routine strips in place at home (what to do in the morning, what to do in the washroom?)? I find that I most often see behaviours when there are transitions from one activity to the next, especially from a preferred to a less preferred activity, like reading Disney books to working on Math problems. In terms of ABA, we don't have that in place in our schools, it's done at home with a separate worker. I do see that some students benefit and others don't. It does depend on the child, as well as many other factors. A comment above mentioned their inability to socialize with other students, I haven't seen any indication that students with Autism can't or don't want to socialize with other students. You will occasionally run into a student that's having a 'bad day' and doesn't want to interact with the other students, that is okay whether it's a student with Autism or not. Above all else, stay curious, stay involved, and communicate with the teachers. If they had a great/rough weekend/morning, did/didn't eat breakfast (etc.) let them know.
Claire On Tuesday, March 5 at 7:28 am
My mother is a special education teacher who has been teaching kids with autism for years. From what she says, the earlier you can get your child specialized help, the better the outcome of his/her sociability and ability to function will be later in life. With kids who have early intervention, they can often reach a point by their teenage years where they're barely distinguishable from their non-autistic peers. I don't know what your school system is like, but generally the school system is the best place to find the kind of behavioral therapists and other specialists you'll need for your child. The preschool teachers will be better educated than at your average preschool. I would say meet with all of the people your child will be working with (you will have to do this anyway for IEP's) and just get to know them. See if they're interested in your child and his/her well-being. Many special education teachers and therapists devote their lives to helping children succeed. Some don't. If you feel like these people are your allies in the education of your child, then go for it. If not, weighing your options might be better.
Kayt On Tuesday, March 5 at 8:35 am
My son isn't autistic, but he didn't speak until he was two. We received in home therapy until he was three, and he went to preschool. I was so nervous to send him, but he has florished there. I don't know what your preschool looks like, but in our district, they're in a mixed age 3-5 classroom, so they learn from older kids, and learn compassion and how to healthily interact with other kids.
You know your son. Don't be afraid to ask questions! See if you can observe a classroom and see if you think he would benefit from the set up. Good luck!
Denise d. On Tuesday, March 5 at 8:46 am
My son was very delayed, and stuggled to get him help. When we did, we immediately started seeing a difference. We use our state program, and we couldn't be happier. There are so many resources out there. Here in Maine we have a program through the state that all can go through if the child qualifies. Your son would with Autism. We also have some other agencies like woodford's that has preschool, etc but also family programs which I have taken that have allowed us to learn skills at home. If we wanted, we could get a social worker which would allow us to then get a case manager which then would allow us to get some in-home support. We could also apply for a state insurance program- called Katie Beckett which covers the things insurance doesn't. The point is this- get your feet wet; it is an overwhelming time but put yourself around those that can help you and your son. You are going to need as much help as him. There are so many programs and resources. He is two but this is just the beginning and the more help you can get and more people you meet with other children with autism, the easier your life will become. It is good to have a circle of people around you. IT takes a village. My son is in a mixed preschool where half of the children have delays, diabilities, etc. Just ask, learn and push for getting him the best you can!! Good luck!
Deadra On Tuesday, March 5 at 10:52 am
I work for the early intervention services in Kentucky. I am developmental interventionist (di) I know your fear of putting your young son in a preschool setting. I understand the unknown is always scary. The transition is a big step. I suggest you start now going to the school of your choice and observe, talk to the teachers and others that would be working with your son. This hopefully will put your mind at ease and help you make your decision. I am not sure what state you are receiving intervention, but in Kentucky you could take your son to the preschool for only the services he would need (i.e. Speech, OT, PT, etc.) I also encourage parents to send their child for a few days at first and see how it goes. You will be pleasantly surprised at how well he will do. Good Luck to you in your adventure.
Pam On Tuesday, March 5 at 11:21 am
My son has moderate/severe autism, and we put him in preschool at age 3. We weren't sure if he was ready or not, but he definitely needed something. It ended up being a lifesaver for him and for us. He definitely needed those two years of preschool before being sent on to kindergarten. It helps enormously with skill building and socialization.
Jennybean On Tuesday, March 5 at 11:30 am
My son doesn't have autism, but he does have other special needs that have required a lot of services through early intervention. He did get transitioned to the school's preschool to continue to receive services through them. I would check out the school and talk with the teacher to get a feel for the class. Not all 3 year olds are automatically able to go to the public school. They only have a certain number of spots which go to the children needing services and then extra spots to go "role model" children who are interviewed to make sure they are able to make the classroom a friendly place where the special needs children can feel comfortable. But that's our school system. I also had the option of letting him go part time to "ease" him into it since he had never really been around other kids his age and he would get unsettled with strange noises. He's bloomed since going to school and it's done a lot to help him.
jennifer fontenot On Tuesday, March 5 at 12:26 pm
Hi Leah,
I am a speech pathologist and have worked with kids with autism. I would really recommend getting him around other kids and the early intervention classrooms are great for this.
One of the great challenges for kids with autism is peer and social interaction as well as speech and language development. Being around other kids will give him more chances to learn from his peers and figure out what will help him most.
Early intervention has lots of research to back it up too. Praying for you and your family.
p.s. you are welcome to email me too [email protected]
Ann On Tuesday, March 5 at 12:40 pm
Unless you are a trained educator and have that unique characteristic of being able to emotionally separate yourself from your child to effectively teach him, then take advantage of EVERY opportunity to assist him in realizing his potential.
As a parent, you do know him best BUT you have an emotional 'horse in the race' and won't be able to do the best for your child. It is the job of the professionals to stay up to date with what works and what doesn't in helping him. They will know things you've never considered or heard of.
Take a deep breath, screw up your courage to give him that little push out of your nest and get him registered!!
Amy C. On Tuesday, March 5 at 12:44 pm
Hi, I do double duty. I am working as an EI and have a child that has ASD. You need to look for the right fit. I did send my child to the preschool program at 3 but placed him in a day care at 4 and had services at day care. He now attends publc school and he has the regular classes except for 1 hour a day. You have to go with what fits your child not you or the system.
Angel On Tuesday, March 5 at 1:13 pm
I had twins with developmental delays. Parenting children with special needs can be overwhelming and time consuming. I found that the special needs preschool provided them with a structured environment to learn and practice new skills. I had time to get needed stuff done and then be "on" when they were home. This gave them a great opportunity to grow. The brain is still very plastic at 2.5 and there is time for your child to develop new patterns and ways of thinking in a very consistent environment. Because you don't send them when they are sick or tired they still have the nurturing home environment for when they are not up to the challenge. Early intervention made a huge difference for my twins and saved my sanity. I would highly recommend it.
Allison On Tuesday, March 5 at 2:13 pm
I home school 4 out of 5 of my children. The youngest that I home school is 3 years old. She is doing great! I don't push her, but let her have fun and join in as much as she can. She likes school and is learning. My 5 year old can do 1st grade math and is starting to read. I can't complain. But to actually send a child out at such a young age is a decision only the parents could make.
SuzanneB On Tuesday, March 5 at 2:19 pm
Ideally, yes preschool at 3 is a good idea for a child with special needs. We have seen the good, the bad and the ugly with our 15 yr old w/autism.
In my opinion they tend to fall in the following ways. The good is a preschool that is a mix of special needs and regular kids-this gives them kids to model after and gives a good idea of what a regular classroom is like. The bad is a self contained preschool with only special needs-this gives typically no good models. Th ugly would be self contained w/behavior issues thrown in-this tends to give only bad examples to follow and tends to be a chaotic class, which is not what you normally want for a kid on the spectrum.
Your best bet is to ask lots of questions, see if you can visit the class, and see if you can talk to a parent of a child in the class(they tend to give the nitty gritty, as to the school district's policy). Also make sure that they offer speech and OT. The thing to remember about these is, they tend to happen in a group setting or in the classroom. So your son will probably still need these outside of school.
Remember even if he does start at the public preschool, he does not have to stay. You can always send him to a different preschool or home school.
Good luck!
kirsten On Tuesday, March 5 at 2:51 pm
hey, I read through a few comments, but there are so many! so i'm sure i'm repeating someone.
i have a spectrum kiddo who is 10. When he was 2.5 he qualified for an early intervention class which was fabulous. I don't think he made huge progress because of it or anything, but he LIKED it. and I liked the teachers, and knowing they had training, not just any old preschool teacher, made me more comfortable with it. so it may be worth it just for him having fun, honestly.
when mine turned 3 he aged out of that program, but qualified for the school district program. now, i was homeschooling his older sister (kindergarten then?) already, so i wasn't in the must.public.school mode or anything, but i checked it out and loved his teacher. and the student/teacher ratio is crazy awesome for those classes. he had a very positive experience there. my friend, however, had her son in one of the same classes, different teacher, and she hated it. so it depends, just go check it out. my son did get a little bit of speech there, but barely any, so don't count on that for major therapy options.
we did a year of private autism school preschool after that, they did aba, and it was the 'puppy-training' type of aba, and it wasn't the right fit for my boy. i regret keeping him in as long as we did. aba can be good, or so i hear, though!
and just so you know, we did mainstream him for kindy, but he had a horrific experience and we pulled him out at Christmas. he's been home ever since and it's been working well for us. we still bring him to the school for speech, which is great.
you can read my post about making a decision for school/homeschool for him if you want, it's here:
good luck! This is not an easy road, definitely make sure you educate yourself!
Erin On Tuesday, March 5 at 4:30 pm
I have two special needs children and after my experience with the public schools, chose to homeschool. I did/do participate in therapies(occupational, physical and speech and language and currently music therapy) but a loving home with access to private specialists can provide a rich learning environment. My son with asperger's is now non-distinguishable from a typical child. My other child is thriving. It's hardwork but so rewarding!! LOTS of people homeschool their special needs children. In fact, it's a growing movement. I'm not against public school options but wanted to let you know that there are other options besides public and private. But, for me, putting my son in a public autism preschool at age 3 and watching him fade away more and more every day, like a little flower wilting and dying, was the impetus to start. I needed a nudge, or more like a shove, but you can't watch what I did and not act. It's been the best thing. I did try public at first, though. The teachers were very kind and it was a well-respected program but NOT for every child.
Jenny V. On Tuesday, March 5 at 5:44 pm
In our state, the preschool program for three year olds is only a half a day, four days a week. If this is true in your area it would give you the best of both worlds – still at home with Mom most of the day and also with peers. Ask to observe some classes. Ask as many questions as you want. By the way, children with special needs are allowed to receive certain public education services such as speech and occupational therapy no matter where they attend school. Be sure to ask about this and be insistent. As a public school teacher I have said here before that ultimately you need to pursue whatever you feel is best for your child:)
God bless. I know you will make a solid decision.
Karen On Tuesday, March 5 at 6:57 pm
We have a son who has Down syndrome. We participated in our state's early intervention program which included preschool at age three. We did send him two days a week. He turned three in February, so he had only 14 weeks of preschool before the summer break. He went one day a week in the summer and three days a week in the fall that he was three and also when he was four. I think if I had it to do over, I'd send him to a private preschool which specialized in children with special needs. I don't think the public system did him any good and only served to frustrate us. We did not have a good experience and he's now in a private school specializing in children with learning differences.
Leslie On Tuesday, March 5 at 10:25 pm
I have a dear friend who has walked this road. She writes a blog called Homeschooling Autism and I find her journey so encouraging. check it out. Leslie
Former Sp. Ed Teacher Who Homeschools :) On Wednesday, March 6 at 8:46 am
To the moms who are saying "You know your kid best." That's true, BUT I don't think it's helpful necessarily in this case. You want people who understand your child's diagnosis. While you know your kid, teachers in a high-quality special education preschool program (and that's what you want, so of course do your research and shop around!) are going to have years of experience, years of researched intervention methods to utilize, and a whole team of support therapists they can integrate into his learning (physical, speech, etc). They're going to create a physical environment conducive to helping your child learn to socialize, and they're going to create opportunities with other children to help socialization as well. And we're not talking about "socialization" the way most homeschoolers think of it. Putting your child in a storytime class at the library or swim lessons in the Y is not going to get it done in this case, because his condition means that he is not going to learn the rules of socialization the way that most children do. Studies show the earlier and more aggressive the intervention, the better the outcome (and that stat about 3rd grade as the great equalizer between those who went to preschool and those who don't does NOT pertain to autistic students).
My vote is to try out a high quality preschool geared toward ASD. You might find that he can transition to a regular ed classroom or even homeschool for kindergarten.
Lisa Jones On Wednesday, March 6 at 9:25 am
As an early childhood special ed teacher, my belief is that preschool is only necessary when there is a developmental need for it, such as speech, motor, cognitive, or personal/social issues. I was a teacher for 13 years before having children myself and did not put my oldest (son) in preschool because I didn't see a need, nor did any doctor mention a problem. Beginning in first grade, my son's teachers began raising the specter of Aspergers–he never talked in class, would walk along the perimeter of the playground at recess instead of playing, etc. He was not identified as having Aspergers until 4th grade. I look back now and see many things I should have done differently, but my son's early development was normal, all except for social interaction. Other kids seemed to single him out to be picked on at the playground in our neighbrhood and he would go off by himself at playdates or birthday parties. I wish I had picked up on those signs with my son like I did with the preschoolers when I was teaching ECSE. If he has been identified at this early age and has the opportunity for early intervention, please take it! You will be doing your child a favor and hopefully be saving yourself some heartache later on. My son, now 13, has NO friends and still has a hard time interacting with peers. You don't want that kind of future for your child.
Peitra Simmons On Wednesday, March 6 at 12:37 pm
I have been in your shoes, twice. Both of my sons started school before they were three. My first, who is now 6, has ASD and my youngest, just turned 4, has apraxia. They both were seen by doctors and therapists, and the outcome was it would be best that they attend school. It was easy with my second since I was familiar with the schools, but with my first it was nerve wrecking. I had many meetings with the teachers, I am constantly getting updates about their IEPs, and I am active in their studies. I saw, and am still seeing, improvements with both of them. My oldest is in a regular first grade class, but he still gets a bit more help to make sure he can keep up with the rest of the kid. I would tell you to be active in meeting the teachers, maybe sit in on a class and see how they run the daily activites. Get your child prepared by doing some of those activites at home so they become familiar.
Gretchen R On Wednesday, March 6 at 12:39 pm
I think the answer to this question will look different for each family. First off, you're asking the public school system if you should send him to public school. They're going to say yes. They want you to get in the system as early as you can because intervention early is important, and they need to get their funding in place to work with your son as soon as possible.
We took our son into preschool screening at age 3, and got a similar response. He doesn't have autism…well, they thought he might be on the spectrum, or he might be ADHD, or he might be a combination of lots of things. Basically, they wanted him labeled and in the system ASAP.
We decided to homeschool him. I did this with much hesitation because he does not socialize well naturally, and I didn't want to cater to him so much that he would expect the world to cater to him his whole life. However, I didn't want him to just be labeled and squished into a system that didn't fit him.
I'm so pleased that we did this. I have spoken with many occupational therapists, and many school specialists, and they say that my son is getting much more one on one attention and much more skill building than he would get offered in a classroom, even with an aide. We've been able to over come some visual learning blocks, and give him some huge socialization tools that he's blossomed in this area. Well, he does have trouble in his choir still, but his teacher there says that all the little boys have the same problem in her choir, so I don't feel he's singled out for his behavior. It's still a work in progress.
If you have time to homeschool him, there are a TON of resources out there to assist you. Just a quick online search and you'll be overwhelmed. It's hard to handle a group of special needs kids, and special needs aides are trained in this. You have the advantage of only dealing with 1 special needs kids, and the advantage of being his mom, knowing his ins and outs, and loving him unconditionally. You won't always have patience, but here's a secret: special needs aides don't have patience all the time too. You are equally human.
My son is blossoming because of our decision, and I have gotten lots of feedback from several professionals that he wouldn't have gotten care to this extent at any public school, but only you can make this decision on what is best for your family. If you want to know if other families have homeschooled their special needs kids successfully, you'll get a big YES. Just know that putting them in the public school system does not let you off the hook either. You'll have to advocate for your child constantly, but that may be the best choice for you.
Vickie F. On Wednesday, March 6 at 5:34 pm
Fear not. Most people in the special education field are there out of love for special needs children. The experience they have is more than any one parent can amass in a lifetime.
Ask questions and listen. These people are allies in a life experience that will be different than that of your family and friends ( if they've no contact with special needs). Be grateful for school time, it may be your only "normal" time apart from your child.
This can be a long and lonely road. Find friends at the school or Special Olympics…you have a common bond.
JennA On Thursday, March 7 at 6:01 am
I have been thinking on this post and the comments left for a few days. There has been some fantastic advice. Since everyone family's experience, needs, etc are different the only thing I really have to add is that you should confidently make your decision. Once it is done, it is done. Do not continue to second guess yourself or beat yourself up over it. As long as you made the decision with the best information available, then it truly was the best decision your family could have made at the time. If down the line it becomes apparent that a different course of action is needed, then start your decision process again without any guilt to the outcome of the first decision. Good luck and peace to your family.
Ann On Friday, March 8 at 11:12 am
I have four children and the oldest two were born with hearing loss. At the age of four my oldest was also diagnosed with autism, and my second has also been diagnosed with a laundry list of special needs. Both of them were in early intervention, then pre-K in the public school system. They're both in public school now as well, in 4th grade and kindergarden. In school they get speech therapy, PT, OT, and one of them gets ABA therapy. If I had to do it all over again I would in a heart beat, with no changes. They both grew by leaps and bounds once they were in school. Being around other kids their own age in a language rich environment, with a very structured routine (I could never be as disciplined about routine at home…it's just not in my nature) is exactly what they needed. And I have to admit, it's a huge weight off my shoulders not to be running them from one therapy appointment to another. I communicate with all the specialists who work with them at least once a week via e-mail, and at least 1-2 times/month either on the phone or in person. Sometimes I go in to school to see what they are doing so I can work with them at home. This is what works for them, and for our family. I 100% agree with the comment above about people being in the special ed field doing it out of love. These people treat my children as if they were their own. We are a military family and therefore move a lot, and I have even kept in contact with some of them throughout the years. They e-mail or check up on us on Facebook almost as much as some of my kid's grandparents! These people are truly special and want to help your children and I am so grateful they are in our lives.
Amber K On Sunday, June 23 at 10:38 am
I have been in your shoes. I have two children both with autism. My son was 2 we finally got him diagnosed. Dr wanted him in the same type things or another place which was all day 3 days a week (ABA and social/speech)….my son did fine at first….then in November he rapidly began to regress. By January he hated the place. It took us almost 2 years at another place two days a week for 2 hours to get him back and now beyond where he was. ABA does not work for all autistic children. He is now 5 and we will be homeschooling. I have been a high school teacher for 12 years….I have seem some horrible things in the special education department including with paraprofessionals. I would get outside therapy but not in a preschool public education setting. I do not want my children's happy spirit to be broken and that is what public education will do to most of these kids. Go with your gut and your heart. Free isn't always the best!


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Matthew 11:12
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And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.
Note 2 at Mt 11:12: The phrase "suffereth violence" in this verse is translated from the Greek word "BIAZO," and it means "to force, i.e. (reflexively) to crowd oneself (into), or (passively) to be seized" (Strong's Concordance). The same Greek word was used in Lu 16:16 and was translated "presseth" there.
The idea that Jesus was communicating in both of these passages was that before the time of John the Baptist, the only way to approach unto God was through the Old Testament laws and sacrifices. In Jesus' time, these had become cold and cumbersome rituals in which the heart of the people was far from God (Mt 15:3-9). When John the Baptist came in the power of the Spirit (2Co 3:6), preaching a turning away from sin (Mt 3:8) and faith in the coming Messiah (Mt 3:11), multitudes, who previously were not actively seeking God, began flocking to the wilderness to be baptized by John, confessing their sins and putting their faith in the coming Messiah. They were truly "pressing in" to the kingdom of heaven, overcoming any obstacle or opposition posed by laws, traditions, unbelief, or any power Satan threw at them, in order to receive the message that John preached. They were "violently resolved" in their zeal and forcefully pressing in to the kingdom of heaven.
Today, as in the days of John the Baptist, Satan is opposing the preaching of the Gospel, and only those who are violently resolved to receive God's best will have it (Jas 4:7).

subset: commoncrawl


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Udderly fantastic: The famous #buttercow. #iowastatefair #isthisheavennoitsiowa
For the first time in years, I missed the Iowa State Fair. And this, blog readers, is bumming me out -- in large part because I firmly believe the Iowa State Fair is the best state fair. Yes, other state fairs are out there, but in my eyes, they just can't compete. The Iowa State Fair has been going strong for 155 years, is home to the world-renowned Butter Cow, and was even the basis for the hit Rodgers and Hammerstein musical State Fair.
Having grown up in Iowa, I'm probably (definitely) a little biased. But the Fair has always been a magical place for me, something that was both the same and different each year I want. It's a continuum of ever-evolving history and experiences.
So, in a spirit of homesickness and celebration, I've compiled a few favorite images for you to enjoy. And to be FAIR (terrible puns are also part of the fair-going experience), I've also added a few photos of other state fairs, because they've gotta try, right?... Read More →
The National Trust for Historic Preservation works to save America's historic places. Join us today to help protect the places that matter to you.
Grant Stevens
Grant is the Manager of Community Outreach at the National Trust. He's proud to be from a Main Street Community and the Black Dirt Capitol of the World – Conrad, Iowa! Growing up on a farm, he always loved going to town and looking at the historic buildings. Now a resident of DC, Grant enjoys reading, running, and anything rural.


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slow cooker shreded turkey gyros
Nutritional Info
- Servings Per Recipe: 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories: 889.9
- Total Fat: 45.6 g
- Cholesterol: 131.1 mg
- Sodium: 3,323.8 mg
- Total Carbs: 64.3 g
- Dietary Fiber: 10.0 g
- Protein: 60.3 g
View full nutritional breakdown of slow cooker shreded turkey gyros calories by ingredient
Number of Servings: 1
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon red pepper sauce
1 1/2 lb turkey thighs, skin removed
1 medium red onion, halved, sliced (1 cup)
1 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon dried dill weed
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (about 1 teaspoon)
1/2 small cucumber, unpeeled, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
6 pita fold breads (without pocket)
I used oroweat sandwich thins
3/4 cup chopped tomatoes
from pillsbury.com
Step 1 Spray 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In small bowl, mix butter, garlic, 3/4 teaspoon of the salt, the oregano and pepper sauce. Rub mixture onto turkey thighs.
Step 2 Place onion in slow cooker; top with turkey thighs. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 7 to 9 hours or until turkey pulls apart easily with fork. Meanwhile, in medium bowl, stir together the yogurt, dill, garlic, cucumber and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt; cover and refrigerate until serving.
Step 3 Remove turkey from slow cooker; remove from bones. Shred turkey; stir into mixture remaining in slow cooker. Using slotted spoon, divide meat and onion mixture among 6 pita folds. Top with yogurt sauce; pass additional sauce at table.
Serving Size: 6
Number of Servings: 1
Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user JAVEJUNKIE.