Preschool / Early Elementary Program

Preparing children who are deaf or hard of hearing for success in mainstream schools

Customized listening and spoken language education for children with hearing loss, ages three through seven.

Preschool / Early Elementary Program

Learning as a Family

During the preschool and early elementary years, the family continues to be the most influential presence in a child’s life. While Clarke’s preschool and early elementary 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.

Curriculum and Classroom

Classes are led by experienced professionals

Classes are taught by master’s-level teachers of the deaf who are educated in the Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) approach to intervention. All children receive daily individual speech with a speech-language pathologist trained in auditory-verbal therapy.

Preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade classroom activities

Preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade classroom activities are designed to enhance children’s listening, speech and language while supporting their pre-academic/academic, social, emotional, cognitive, physical and creative skill development. Children engage in 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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Outcomes

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

In our Preschool / Early Elementary Program, children who are deaf or hard of hearing are prepared for success in mainstream schools as early as possible.

IEP Goal Achievement

Students meet goals set forth in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP), which are federally-mandated plans guiding the development and education of children who are disabled.