When it comes to choosing the right school for your neurodivergent kid, you want to ensure they receive not only the best education but also the necessary support. Here are five of the top autism schools in California that excel in providing a nurturing environment and quality education for kids with thinking and learning differences.
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Top 5 Autism Schools in California
| School Name | Address | Phone Number | Uniqueness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autism Center of the Bay Area | 1360 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126 | (408) 292-4200 | A private school for children with autism ages 2-21. It offers a variety of programs, including a self-contained classroom, a mainstream classroom with support, and an after-school program. The school also offers a variety of therapies, including ABA, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. |
| The California Center for Autism | 3210 Middlefield Rd, Mountain View, CA 94043 | (650) 964-9500 | A non-profit organization that provides a variety of services to children with autism, including a school, a summer camp, and a family support program. The school’s programs are based on the principles of the Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children (TEACCH) approach. |
| The Oakhurst School | 2120 W El Camino Real, Mountain View, CA 94040 | (650) 964-8500 | A private school for children with autism ages 2-21. It offers a variety of programs, including a self-contained classroom, a mainstream classroom with support, and an after-school program. The school also offers a variety of therapies, including ABA, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. |
| The Redwood School | 1900 De Haro St, San Francisco, CA 94107 | (415) 551-1500 | A private school for children with autism ages 2-21. It offers a variety of programs, including a self-contained classroom, a mainstream classroom with support, and an after-school program. The school also offers a variety of therapies, including ABA, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. |
| The Stepping Stones School | 1245 E Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94403 | (650) 344-7730 | A private school for children with autism ages 2-21. It offers a variety of programs, including a self-contained classroom, a mainstream classroom with support, and an after-school program. The school also offers a variety of therapies, including ABA, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. |
Each of these schools has a unique approach to teaching kids with autism. Whether through specialized programs or tailored therapies, these institutions provide an inclusive environment where your child can thrive.
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Is California a Good State for Autism?
Certainly! California is often hailed as one of the best states for families raising neurodivergent kids. This is due to its comprehensive special education laws and wide range of services for kids with thinking and learning differences.
Moreover, the state’s dedication to inclusion is evident in its public schools’ policies which emphasize integrating students with special needs into general classrooms whenever possible. In other words, if you’re considering moving to California or already live there, rest assured that numerous resources are available to support your family.
What Kind of School is Best for Autistic Child?
The answer largely depends on your child’s individual needs. However, many parents find that schools offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs tend to be effective. These programs focus on improving specific behaviors like social skills, communication, and reading through positive reinforcement.
Read more: Autism Schools in San Diego
On the other hand, some parents prefer schools that offer TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-handicapped Children) programs that emphasize fostering independence by using visual cues throughout their curriculum. Above all else, though, remember this: the best school will always be one that meets your child’s unique needs while making them feel safe and accepted.
What State Has The Best Benefits For Autism?
While California ranks high in autism-friendly states due to its robust educational services and laws protecting students with disabilities, New Jersey also deserves mention as it provides extensive health coverage for autism-related treatments.
However, let’s remember Massachusetts, which boasts some of the country’s leading hospitals specializing in pediatric neurology. In short, each state has its strengths, so it’s essential to research what benefits each can offer catered explicitly to your family’s needs.
Can I Get Paid To Stay Home With My Autistic Child In California?
Yes indeed! As part of California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), parents may be eligible to receive a payment if they stay home to care for their autistic child. This program recognizes caregiving as an essential job deserving compensation, just like any other profession.
In addition, IHSS provides financial assistance for housecleaning, meal preparation, laundry, and grocery shopping, allowing you more time to focus on caring for your child without worrying about daily chores.
Evidence shows that kids learn best when they’re having fun. Many teachers recommend using learning tech like Goally to engage with kids in a way they love.
In the classroom, Goally can help kids with:
- Following directions by providing visual and verbals supports to help them understand each task.
- Staying on task by providing timers and reminders to help them stay focused.
- Communicating with their teachers and peers through the AAC Talker app that allows them to express wants and needs.
- Identifying and regulating their emotions before children have a meltdown because they are overstimulated.
Goally’s distraction-free kid’s tablet can be used as a therapy tool to help teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more!
Navigating life and raising a neurodivergent kid can be challenging but remember, you’re not alone! From top-notch autism schools in California offering, specialized curriculums tailored towards autistic students’ unique needs; generous state benefits designed specifically for families like yours – help is readily available! And lastly, don’t forget tools like Goally – our digital assistant designed specifically keeping neurodivergent kids in mind can make daily routines more accessible, helping reduce stress both on you & your little champ!
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
