Selecting a school that meets the unique needs of a child with autism can be a complex process, laden with logistical and emotional considerations. In Delaware, the variety of educational options further complicates this task. This blog offers an evidence-based evaluation of the best schools for autism in the state, taking into account crucial factors like specialized programs, resources, and teacher qualifications. It aims to provide parents and caregivers with clear, actionable information for making an informed decision. This blog will support you in understanding and comparing the top choices for your unique child’s needs.
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Top 5 Best Schools for Autism in Delaware
It’s easy for the details to blur when looking for the right school for your unique child. Fear not, we’ve got your back! The top five schools for kids with thinking and learning differences in Delaware are listed below.
| Name of the Location | Star Rating | Number of Reviews | Address | Hours of Operation | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brennen School | 4.0 | 2 | Newark, DE, United States | Closed, Opens 8:20 AM | Brennen School specializes in a broad range of special educational needs, making it a versatile choice for various challenges. |
| John S. Charlton School | 4.0 | 7 | Camden Wyoming, DE, United States | Closed, Opens 8:15 AM | With a higher number of reviews, John S. Charlton School offers a community-vetted special education program. |
| BrightBloom Centers | 5.0 | 3 | Wilmington, DE, United States | Closed, Opens 9:00 AM | BrightBloom Centers boasts the highest rating and focuses exclusively on targeted educational interventions. |
| Howard T. Ennis School | 4.0 | 2 | Georgetown, DE, United States | Closed, Opens 8:15 AM | If location is a priority, Howard T. Ennis School in Georgetown offers special education closer to southern Delaware. |
| The Pilot School | 3.8 | 4 | Wilmington, DE, United States | Closed, Opens 9:00 AM | The Pilot School is a private institution that provides a uniquely tailored curriculum for special needs education. |
What is the Delaware Autism Program School?
Regarding noteworthy programs, the Delaware Autism Program (DAP) stands out. It’s a statewide public school specifically designed for kids with autism. Apart from a specialized curriculum, the school offers an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to cater to each child’s situation.
The IEP team, including educators, parents, and professionals, work together to craft individualized learning goals. Most importantly, it incorporates a combination of applied behavior analysis (ABA), occupational therapies, and speech and language services. To sum up, DAP affirms a holistic approach, focusing on social skills and academics.
Read more: Your Questions Answered About The IEP Process
Can Autistic Children Go To a Regular School in the USA?
It’s critical to remember that being autistic doesn’t strip away the opportunity for a child to experience a regular school life. Certainly, many neurodivergent kids, with the proper support, thrive in mainstream classrooms. After all, with the right IEP in place, adapting to a regular setting becomes possible.
However, on the other hand, it’s essential to evaluate the child’s individual needs and the school’s ability to accommodate them. For example, a school must provide a supportive and inclusive environment and equip staff to handle unique learning needs. The decision should ultimately be centered on what best suits your child’s needs.
Read more: Autism in Schools
What Age Do Autistic Children Go To School?
Most neurodivergent kids begin their educational journey between 3 and 5 years old. Yet, this is a relatively easy and fast rule. Above all, the readiness to start school varies from one child to another.
Meanwhile, during this time, it’s common for a child’s behavior to hold vital clues about their school readiness. Assessing their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development often provides valuable insights. It’s a sensitive phase, and understanding your child’s individual ability is key to making this decision.
What Do Autistic Children Struggle With the Most?
Neurodivergent kids often have unique struggles. Some commonly experienced difficulties include sensory sensitivities, challenges with social interaction, or difficulty with changes in routine. However, it’s important to remember every autism journey is unique.
For instance, some of the most significant hurdles school-aged kids with autism face are understanding social cues and navigating peer relationships. Constant communication with teachers helps parents stay updated about their child’s progress and concerns, allowing for timely intervention and support.
How Goally Can Help
Finding the best school for your child can be daunting. Certainly, it’s a step in the right direction to seek out services and schools that cater to neurodivergent children. But how about a tool to help your kiddo stay on track and foster independence outside school?
That’s where Goally comes in. But no, we’re not just another tool. We’re a companion: assisting your child with school tasks, chores, and routines while promoting self-sufficiency.
Goally is a great tool for kids with ASD who are looking to improve their life and language skills. It can be used in the home or clinic, and it is tailored to the individual needs of each child. Goally is a digital therapy and teaching assistant that can help kiddos with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Goally can help children with a variety of tasks, including:
- Learning New Skills: Goally’s video classes helps children learn new skills, such as: how to follow directions, how to interact with peers, and how to make a sandwich.
- Increased Communication: Goally helps children effectively communicate wants and needs while also teaching them their first 50 words, allowing children to participate in the world around them.
- Behavior Management: Goally helps children manage their behavior, both in the classroom and at home by rewarding positive behaviors created by parents and teachers.
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!
In conclusion, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for education for kids with autism. Finding the right school means considering various factors while keeping the child’s needs at the forefront. Armed with the right details about the best schools for autism in Delaware, parents can make informed choices. Above all, remember that the right school paired with supportive tech like Goally does not just play a part in the child’s learning. They’re driving forces together – propelling your child forward.
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
