The Summit School Early Learning Center Autism Program is
built upon an experiential philosophy which implements the best
elements of all approaches. The program focuses on the individual needs
of the child. A variety of techniques are used to offer open-ended
opportunities for children to generalize their skills in a variety of
environments.
The program features the following components:
• Social and emotional growth
• Communication skills
• Personal independence
The Summit School Early Learning Center environment is
rich with sensory experiences, allowing each student to meet his/her
sensory needs throughout the day. By providing an open nurturing
environment, which earns a student’s trust, relationships are
built, resulting in long-lasting success.
Visuals, such as pictures and print, are used in
learning experiences. Visuals help students learn multiple-step tasks,
schedules, new material and communication.
Students are served year-round, five hours per
day, five days a week. Classrooms are limited to six students.
Children often work one-on-one with educators to develop skills and
receive personal attention while working to achieve individual goals.
Each child receives an individual program based on the Illinois State
Early Learning Standards and the student’s Individualized
Education Plans to address his/her specific needs and strengths.
