Therapeutic Preschool

The Lesley Ann Waldheim Early Childhood Center

Our team looks at early life experiences, both positive and negative, when recommending care for each child. This whole-child approach includes understanding trauma's impact on their development.

Developmental trauma refers to the results of abuse, neglect, chaos, and inadequate care that impacts the child’s functioning in multiple areas. These experiences influence how the child processes sensory input, relates to others, and processes new information.

We Support Children Through Their Academic Transitions

We create a supportive space that helps students transition from a therapeutic environment into traditional kindergarten through our specialized classroom design.

We Use Therapeutic Practices to Facilitate Healing

Our program creates a safe space for children ages 3-6 to heal from trauma through a variety of therapies, including individual play therapy, occupational therapy, group therapy, therapeutic classrooms, caregiver engagement, advocacy, case management, and psycho-education. Family therapy is also available as needed, all with the goal to ensure that your child receives the most comprehensive care possible.

We Create Treatment Plans Unique to Your Child

We develop a unique treatment plan for each child based on their specific needs. These plans are reviewed and updated quarterly, with progress tracked through various assessments. Working collaboratively with caregivers, the child's treatment team, and family will determine when your child has met their goals and is ready to transition back to a traditional daycare or preschool setting.

Image of a young girl holding a play phone to her ear and smiling

What to Expect

FamilyForward's Therapeutic Preschool program is offered at no cost for eligible children. The Therapeutic Preschool provides a setting where interventions are intentionally aimed at providing a structured, therapeutic environment so children have opportunities for safer, healthier functioning, and improved relationships for the child and the family.

The Therapeutic Preschool supports each family in accessing additional resources, as needed, when children are ready to transition to their next setting. Often, this process includes support for obtaining an Individualized Education Plan.

Program Information

Eligibility

Children ages of 3-6 years with a history of significant developmental trauma that is impacting their involvement in traditional daycare or preschool settings most often presenting as challenges with emotional and behavioral regulation, sensory integration, and/or mental health symptoms.

*We require that children are potty trained; however, there are some exceptions if the child is in the process of becoming potty trained.

Therapeutic Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the therapeutic preschool hours?

Our hours are Monday-Thursday, from 8:30am-3:00pm. Limited spots are available in before care (8:00am to 8:30am) and after care (3:00pm to 4:30pm).

There is no school on Fridays

Is food provided during school hours?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided during school hours.

How big are the classroom sizes?

At the therapeutic preschool, classroom sizes are typically limited to up to 6 children.

Is transportation available?

No, transportation is not available.