BTLC’s comprehensive and specialized preschool program has a low staff-to-child ratio to ensure that the children receive the intensity and support that they require to learn. This program includes:

• Educational programming, guided by the Kindergarten Program Statement, provided by a Certificated Teacher and supported by Educational Assistants, using the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and Discrete Trial Teaching
• Consultation and programming support provided to the classroom teacher by a Special Education Consultant and a Behaviour Consultant
• Classroom activities developed and implemented by the following specialists: SLP, OT and PT
• Family-oriented programming sessions provided to the parent and child by the teacher or appropriate specialist
• Comprehensive assessments used to guide program planning and support transition to other school placements
• Support and assistance in selecting and transitioning to an appropriate Kindergarten or Grade 1 placement
• Opportunities for the children to participate in typical activities such as trick or treating at Halloween, field trips, and concerts

Our program also offers opportunities for children to be integrated, when appropriate, within regular community preschool or Kindergarten classrooms. We believe strongly in supporting parents as they choose meaningful educational placements where their child will have every opportunity to learn and develop. Our integrated school program offers:

• Full or part time placements in a regular classroom (children may attend a regular preschool or Kindergarten program in addition to attending the specialized program offered at BTLC)
• Additional support provided by an Educational Assistant (when appropriate)
• Program coordination and consultation provided to the classroom teacher by a Special Education Consultant
• Consultation, including demonstration of strategies and activities to the classroom teacher and aide, provided by the following specialists (when appropriate): SLP, OT , PT and Behaviour Consultant

BTLC is dedicated to developing and providing, in collaboration with parents and specialists, dynamic individualized program plans (IPPs) that meet the needs of each individual child that attends our program.

Within the scope of our IPPs, we employ the principles of ABA and Discrete Trial Teaching to focus on:

• increasing your child's understanding and use of language
• developing skills to increase interactions with classmates and participation in group activities
• developing greater independence and behaviour control
• expanding early literacy skills and increasing understanding of early numeracy concepts
• developing fine/gross motor skills necessary for participation in classroom activities and routines

Many PUF-eligible children also qualify for specialized services funding through Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD).

Although it is a separate organization, BTLC was actually created by Autism Partnership to promote efforts in providing an integrated, coordinated, and effective program for preschool children with ASD or developmental disabilities. For a consistent approach to teaching, we highly recommend that children involved in a BTLC program also access home services through Autism Partnership if they are eligible for FSCD funding. To learn more about Autism Partnership, please visit www.autismpartnership.ca