Early Childhood Center

Highly structured environment utilizing trauma-informed, developmentally sensitive interventions for children ages three to six experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Methods

The FamilyForward Lesley Ann Waldheim Early Childhood Center, specializes in working with young children who have experienced early trauma. A highly structured environment utilizing trauma-informed, developmentally sensitive interventions is provided for children ages three to six experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties resulting from histories of developmental trauma. Our individualized approach prioritizes each child’s unique needs and supports their entire therapeutic web including caregivers and treatment teams.

Program Components

  • Highly trained staff with a maximum of four children to one staff ratio
  • Programming driven by the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT)™ developed by Dr. Bruce Perry, to provide individualized, developmentally sensitive, and neurobiologically informed classroom experiences for each child
  • Therapeutic, play-based classroom experiences that emphasize connection, sensory integration, and regulation
  • Support for the child’s therapeutic web including case management, psychoeducation, coaching, and advocacy
  • Specific therapeutic models include:
    • Directive and Child-Centered Play Therapy
    • Group therapy utilizing Sunshine Circles
    • Family therapy with principles of Theraplay
    • Attachment, Regulation and Competency (ARC) Model
    • Integrated, trauma-informed Occupational Therapy

Logistics

  • Full-day programming from 8:30am to 3:00pm Monday – Thursday, closed on Fridays
  • Programming takes place at the Lesley Ann Waldheim Early Childhood Center (2780 N Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63114)
  • Before care from 8:00am – 8:30am if needed
  • After care from 3:00pm – 4:30pm if needed 
  • Meals and snacks provided

Eligibility

  • The program serves children who are residents of St. Louis County and/or eligible for MO HealthNet (Medicaid) who have experienced developmental trauma and presenting with emotional and behavioral regulation challenges.
  • The program is offered at no cost for all eligible children

Learn More

Call 314.534.9350 and ask for Intake or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org to learn more about FamilyForward’s Early Childhood Center.