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School Readiness Program
Helping Children Build the Skills for a Smooth Transition to School
Our School Readiness Program is designed to support children who experience challenges, anxiety in group settings, or have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as they prepare to enter school. Through a structured, yet engaging approach, we utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy approach combined with the national educational standards to equip children with the skills they need for a successful transition to formal education.

A Comprehensive Approach to School Preparation
Our group-based therapy program is tailored for children aged 5 to 14 years, helping them develop essential skills in a supportive and interactive environment. The curriculum is led by a team of ABA therapists, special education teachers, speech therapists, and movement specialists, ensuring a well-rounded approach that fosters confidence and independence.
Key Areas of Focus
✔ Smooth Transitions – Learning to navigate changes between activities and environments with ease.
✔ Effective Communication – Building expressive and receptive language skills to enhance classroom participation.
✔ Pre-Literacy & numeracy skills – Strengthening early academic abilities, including handwriting, reading and basic numeracy.
✔ Social Engagement & Play – Developing positive interactions and cooperation skills.
✔ Sensory Awareness & Emotion Regulation – Learning to understand and effectively manage emotions and sensory preferences for a positive learning experience.
How ABA Supports School Readiness
ABA therapy plays a vital role in preparing children for the classroom environment by teaching them foundational skills in a structured, supportive, and engaging way. Our program focuses on
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Strengthening Academic Readiness
Children are introduced to early literacy, numeracy, and fine motor skills through structured learning activities. ABA techniques such as visual supports, hands-on exercises, and positive reinforcement help them build skills in reading, writing, and math at a pace suited to their individual needs.
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Encouraging Independence
From self-care tasks like dressing and grooming to following daily routines, ABA therapy breaks down essential skills into manageable steps. Through guidance and reinforcement, children gradually gain confidence in completing these tasks independently, an essential part of school life.
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Enhancing Communication Skills
ABA strategies break down communication into teachable steps, whether it’s forming words, using nonverbal gestures, or engaging in back-and-forth conversations. Improved communication helps children express their needs, participate in class, and develop friendships.
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Establishing Structured Routines
Our program mirrors a structured school day by introducing children to scheduled activities, transitions, and expectations. Visual schedules and cues help them understand and anticipate changes, making it easier to adapt to the classroom setting.
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Easing the Transition to School
Gradual exposure to school-like environments—such as group learning sessions, guided play, and structured activities—helps children feel more comfortable in a classroom. This step-by-step approach ensures a smoother transition when they begin school full-time.
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Developing Social Skills
Social interactions are a key part of school life. ABA helps children learn the unspoken rules of communication, such as greeting others, taking turns, and responding to social cues. Role-playing and peer activities encourage friendship-building and cooperative play.
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Improving Attention & Task Engagement
Through structured activities like Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and reinforcement-based learning, children develop focus, persistence, and task completion skills, preparing them for classroom participation.
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Providing Tailored Support for Unique Needs
Every child learns differently. ABA therapy provides individualized support to address specific strengths and challenges, ensuring that each child receives the guidance they need to succeed in a school setting.
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Encouraging Parental Involvement
Parents play a crucial role in reinforcing school readiness skills at home. Our program includes parent coaching and collaboration, ensuring that skills learned in therapy carry over into everyday life.
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Reducing Challenging Behaviors
Through Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies, ABA helps identify and reduce problem behaviors that may interfere with learning. By replacing challenging behaviors with appropriate skills, children can engage more effectively in the classroom.
Setting Your Child Up for Success
By incorporating ABA techniques into a structured and engaging school readiness program, we ensure that children develop the academic, social, and adaptive skills they need to thrive in a formal school setting.
Our goal is to provide a positive, supportive environment where children can gain confidence, build friendships, and develop independence, setting them up for long-term success in their educational journey.
📞 Contact ABA Kids Learning Center to learn more about our School Readiness Program and how we can help your child make a smooth transition to school!
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