What is Center Based Child Care?

Four-year-old Liam, who has autism, recently started attending a center based program designed to include children with special needs. Here’s what a typical day looks like for him:

• Arrival and free play: Liam’s mom drops him off and he puts away his backpack and coat. He joins some other kids in the block area, where a teacher facilitates turn-taking and helps Liam practice requesting toys from peers.
• Circle time: When the cleanup song comes on, Liam helps put the blocks away and goes to the rug for circle time. The teacher uses visual cards to preview the day’s schedule. Liam sits on a wiggle cushion which helps him stay seated and focused.
• Small groups: Liam does an art project with two other children and a teacher. The teacher breaks down the steps, modeling each part of the process. Liam gets help when needed, but is encouraged to do as much on his own as possible.
• Gross motor play: On the playground, Liam practices climbing and balancing on the playset. A physical therapist consults with staff to ensure the activities target his motor skill goals.
• Lunch and rest time: Liam eats the lunch his mom packed at a table with his classmates. Afterwards, he rests on a cot in a quiet, semi-private area of the room.

Throughout the day, the staff use Liam’s individualized education plan to embed his learning objectives into daily routines and activities. They track his progress and regularly communicate with his parents.