Clarke’s Inclusion Preschool Programs offer specialized Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) education to children of all hearing abilities, ages three through five.
Students in Clarke’s Inclusion Preschool classrooms follow the same philosophy and curriculum as our Preschool Programs, but with a unique twist. Inclusion Preschool is designed to be a “reverse mainstream” program, providing an exemplary model for inclusion of children with typical hearing within an early childhood program for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Learning as a Family
During the preschool years, the family continues to be the most influential presence in a child’s life. While Clarke’s preschool students are learning to observe actively and interact with new concepts and people, their families and other caregivers are learning too. Parents, grandparents and other adults in the child’s life find a support network of families and professionals at Clarke where they can share and learn.
Families are actively involved in learning through frequent communication, classroom observations, participation in school activities, family workshops and Clarke’s Support Groups. Guidance and support is also provided to families as children transition into mainstream schools.
By honoring the needs of students with different hearing abilities, Clarke’s Inclusion Preschool Program connects our sites to the community. Students and families are part of a community–not just a classroom.
Classes are led by experienced professionals
Classes are led by experienced professionals trained in early childhood education, speech-language pathology, education of the deaf and the Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) approach. All Clarke educators hold advanced degrees in specialty areas, and children who are deaf or hard of hearing receive daily auditory speech and language therapy provided by speech-language pathologists and teachers of the deaf.
Classroom activities are designed to enhance children’s development
Classroom activities are designed to enhance children’s listening, speech, language and pre-literacy skills while supporting their social, emotional, cognitive, physical and creative development. Children engage in intellectual problem solving, discovery, exploration, reasoning and experiential activities in a joyful, nurturing environment. Classrooms are designed for the unique acoustical needs of children with hearing loss, and curriculum is aligned with state and national standards.
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Families form partnerships with Clarke’s experienced staff to create a supportive team dedicated to the success and development of each child.
Success in mainstream schools
IEP Goal Achievement
Develop Competence
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