The Importance of Therapeutic Preschool

Guest blog contributed by: In2Great! Pediatric Theapy

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In the early years of a child’s life, the foundation for future learning, behavior, and health is established. Therapeutic school readiness programs play a crucial role in creating this foundation, offering specialized support to children who may require a little extra assistance to function in their classroom. Occasionally, traditional preschools may struggle to include these children in their curriculum, but with the proper encouragement, all children can participate in this key educational beginning.

Therapeutic “school readiness programs” are specially designed to support young children with developmental, emotional, or behavioral challenges, helping establish a solid foundation for lifelong learning, behavior, and health. Unlike traditional preschools, these programs incorporate therapeutic services into daily routines, offering a unique approach that emphasizes early intervention and individualized support. This structure is particularly beneficial for children who might struggle to adapt to a conventional classroom setting. This blog post specifically discusses the therapeutic school readiness programs found within private pediatric therapy clinics (not to be confused with “early childhood” school district programs, which are also great and beneficial in their own ways!)  

Therapeutic school readiness programs often feature lower student-to-staff ratios, individualized curriculums, and carefully structured environments with predictable routines. This type of setting reduces anxiety, fosters self-confidence, and allows children to focus on skill development without feeling overwhelmed. Early identification and support can be transformative, enabling children to remain in inclusive classroom environments while developing the foundational skills necessary for later academic and social success.

Therapeutic school readiness programs go beyond academics by addressing the “whole child,” promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Activities are tailored to enhance fine and gross motor skills, improve social interactions, and build emotional resilience. Such a holistic approach ensures that children not only develop academically but also acquire skills critical for well-rounded growth. These programs create a safe, nurturing space, often staffed by therapists who can support co-regulation and emotional needs, providing children with the stability they require.

Therapeutic school readiness programs provide early identification, which is critical for children who may need extra support in the classroom. Early identification can significantly improve a child’s ability to remain in the classroom or participate with their peers, helping them reach their full potential. By identifying and addressing needs early, these programs can set kids up for success later in life.

Parental involvement is a key component of these programs, as staff/therapists collaborate closely with families, equipping them with strategies to reinforce developmental gains at home, creating a seamless connection between the therapeutic program and family life. This partnership enhances the effectiveness of the interventions and ensures children receive consistent support, maximizing the impact of the program. Family involvement is extremely important in the learning and development of children in their preschool years. One of the most important parts of pediatric therapy is the recognition that parents, families, and caregivers have a crucial role in the health and wellbeing of their children. Therapeutic school readiness programs often involve families in the therapeutic process, providing them with the tools and strategies they need to support their child’s development at home. This collaboration between school and home ensures consistency in the child’s learning and development, making therapeutic interventions more effective.

Studies highlight measurable benefits from therapeutic school readiness program attendance, particularly for children who may not thrive in traditional settings. In a study published by Rand.org (Karoly, L. A., Kilburn, M. R., & Cannon, J. S. (2005). Early Childhood Interventions: Proven Results, Future Promise. RAND Corporation. Available at: https://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG341.html), reveals that children attending therapeutic school readiness programs, such as Early Childhood, often achieve better academic outcomes, especially in reading and math, compared to peers who lack early intervention.

In an article from The Goldman Center of Chicago, titled, “Why Might A Psychologist Recommend a Therapeutic Preschool?” (Goldman Center of Chicago. (n.d.)Why Might a Psychologist Recommend a Therapeutic Preschool? Retrieved from https://goldmancenter.org/resources/articles/why-might-a-psychologist-recommend-a-therapeuticpreschool/), it was determined that therapeutic school readiness programs help children develop crucial social and emotional skills. Children get support while learning to interact positively with peers, manage their emotions, and develop empathy. These skills are essential for their overall well-being and future relationships. They also determined that children who attend therapeutic school readiness programs often exhibit fewer behavioral needs throughout the course of their time at the preschool. Early identification helps address issues such as aggression, anxiety, and hyperactivity, leading to more positive behavior both at school and at home.

By addressing developmental and behavioral issues early, therapeutic school readiness programs prepare children for a smoother transition to mainstream schooling. Children who attend these programs are often better equipped to handle the demands of a traditional classroom setting, both academically and socially.

Additionally, long-term studies, such as the Perry Preschool Project and the Abecedarian Project, demonstrate that early intervention can lead to lasting benefits, including higher high school graduation rates, greater post-secondary education participation, and increased employment stability in adulthood.  

Therapeutic school readiness programs are invaluable, offering children individualized support to “come as they are.” By meeting each child at their unique developmental level, these programs foster a strong sense of belonging and help them engage with greater confidence alongside peers, paving the way for a successful educational journey. Whether supplementing early childhood education or complementing individual weekly therapy sessions, these programs enhance early intervention and significantly improve outcomes, contributing positively to each child’s growth and well-being during crucial formative years.

All children need a safe and supportive environment, and therapeutic school readiness programs provide a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn and grow, no matter their individual needs. Frequently, the staff are trained to handle a variety of challenges and create a supportive atmosphere that encourages children to explore and learn without fear of judgment or failure, and there are therapists in the classroom to ensure a child’s therapeutic needs are being met. This safe space is crucial for children who may have experienced trauma, have differing needs, or require an adult for coregulation.

Children in therapeutic school readiness programs are encouraged to develop independence and self-confidence as they work toward achieving their maximum functional potential in the least restrictive environment. Through structured activities and positive reinforcement, children learn to believe in their abilities and take on new challenges. This boost in confidence can have a lasting impact on their future academic and social success.

There are intangible benefits of therapeutic school readiness programs, but there are also indicators, evident in research, that there are measurable outcomes for children attending therapeutic school readiness programs when traditional preschools aren’t a good fit.

Therapeutic school readiness programs are a vital resource for children who need extra support during their early years. By providing early identification, individualized support, and a nurturing environment, these programs help children overcome challenges and build a strong foundation for future success. More importantly, therapeutic school readiness programs frequently meet children at their developmental level, and do not expect them to fit into the traditional classroom model. Kids can come as they are, bringing their own unique strengths, and be supported as they participate with their peers in their early academic experiences.

About In2Great! Pediatric Therapy:

At In2Great Pediatric Therapy our clinic strives to offer a warm and supportive environment where families can learn about their child’s developmental needs and how to nurture their child’s capacity to succeed. Our aim is to help children reach their potential by treating the whole child using techniques learned from experience and directed by evidence-based practices. We strive to help anyone and everyone that walks through our doors by providing a safe, supportive and playful environment that promotes strong relationships and growth and development for our staff, our families and our community. In2Great's Ready, Set, Group Program provides your child a jump start on foundational skill development that allows for successful entry into a classroom! Our play-based program is run by dedicated therapists in a small group setting focused on the needs of the child.

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C.I.T.Y. of Support is grateful to In2Great! Pediatric Therapy for their participation as one of our organization's sponsors. Please note that the information and opinions presented here are specifically their own.  The purpose of C.I.T.Y. of Support's collaborative blog is to help connect families and professionals to different community resources, and we do not specifically endorse any particular recommendations provided herein.

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