Building Blocks for a Bright Future
Young Learners Preschool is an evidence-based, comprehensive, early intervention school program designed to serve children between 2.9 and 5 years of age with autism spectrum disorder. This unique preschool offers an intensive, six hour per day, five day per week special education program featuring small class size and teacher:student ratio of at least 1:3.
mission
Through specialized, evidence-based assessment and curriculum, a collaborative multidisciplinary team approach and family involvement, our mission is to create a positive, dynamic learning environment to help students with autism spectrum disorder reach their maximum potential.
Young Learners Preschool, Sherman Oaks Campus, is certified by the California State Department of Education. Young Learners is licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. The Young Learners Preschool was established with the support of a generous grant from First 5 LA and is recognized by First 5 LA as a model of excellence.
Curriculum
Young Learners Preschool utilizes the California Preschool Learning Foundations as a guide to developing an individualized kindergarten readiness program. Each child is assessed with an ABA-based assessment tool, which is used to develop IEP goals and related programs. The program fosters growth in language development, communication, socialization, emotional/relational skills, adaptive skills, behavior management, academic readiness, and fine and gross motor skills.
Young Learners’ specialized curriculum utilizes a wide range of highly individualized, research-based, clinically-validated intervention strategies. Depending on the child’s needs, skills are taught through Applied Behavior Analysis teaching strategies such as Discrete Trial Training, Pivotal Response Training, Natural Environment Teaching and Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Research has demonstrated that early intervention is critical in maximizing the growth and development of young children with autism spectrum disorder.
Young Learners Educational Support Systems
Technology in the Classroom:
- Emphasizes the value of technology in teaching and learning.
- Uses iPads, augmentative communication devices, and computer software.
- Integrates TeachTown: Basics, a research-based software program grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles.
- Addresses language learning, social skills, communication skills, and emotional development.
Multidisciplinary Team:
- Composed of credentialed special education teachers, speech and language pathologists, psychologists, occupational therapists, adaptive physical education specialists, behavior specialists, and experienced teaching assistants.
- Works collaboratively to meet each child’s individual needs.
- Ensures skill generalization throughout the school week.
Family Collaboration and Communication:
- Promotes effective collaboration between schools and families to foster mutual respect and trust.
- Utilizes daily communication logs, parent conferences, phone calls, emails, report cards, and team meetings for communication.
- Teachers may conduct home visits to address specific needs.
Family Involvement:
- Encourages participation through training and support meetings, field trips, and volunteer opportunities.
- Offers a monthly conversation and coffee group led by Destiny McCullogh, Prinicipal, for parents to share experiences, ask questions, and celebrate successes.
We’d love to tell you more
Thank you for your interest in Young Learners.
Questions? Please contact our admissions office at 877.943.5747 or admissions@thehelpgroup.org.
Sherman Oaks
13164 Burbank Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401
