New Therapeutic Preschool!

Embracing Neurodiversity: A New Therapeutic Preschool at Northville Campus

We are thrilled to announce the opening of a groundbreaking therapeutic preschool at Ward Church’s Northville campus this fall! This innovative program is designed specifically for neurodiverse children, embracing their unique strengths and fostering their development through a compassionate, Christ-centered approach.

Our Approach:

At the heart of our program is a commitment to neuro-affirming language and a strength-based approach. We believe that every child is wonderfully made, possessing their own unique abilities and potential. Our goal is to celebrate these differences and provide an environment where autistic children can thrive. Our educators and therapists are trained to use positive, empowering language that affirms each child’s identity and promotes self-esteem. We focus on teaching social-emotional development and total communication, ensuring every child has the tools to express themselves and build relationships.

Play-Based Therapy:

Our therapeutic preschool integrates highly effective, evidence-based therapies into a play-based model of treatment. Play is a natural and powerful tool for learning and development, particularly for young children. All play-based learning is done in a classroom setting with peers, in a sensory-rich environment. Through structured and unstructured play activities, children develop essential skills in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. Our interdisciplinary team of clinical staff collaborates to create individualized therapy plans that address each child’s specific needs.

Interdisciplinary Model:

Our program is supported by a team of highly educated and trained professionals, including occupational therapists, speech therapists, behavioral therapists, and educational specialists. This interdisciplinary model ensures a holistic approach to treatment, where each child’s development is supported from multiple angles. Our team works closely together to monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed, ensuring the most effective outcomes for each child.

Family-Focused:

We understand that parents and families play a crucial role in a child’s development. Our program is family-focused, offering extensive opportunities for parent involvement. We provide parent training sessions, classes, and Christian counseling to equip families with the tools and knowledge they need to support their child’s growth.

Christ-Centered Foundation:

Our preschool is rooted in a Christ-centered foundational model, teaching children moral and spiritual concepts in a loving, Christian atmosphere. We believe in the power of prayer and ensure that all children and families are covered in Christian love and support. Our curriculum incorporates teachings that align with Christian values, helping children develop a strong moral compass alongside their academic and social skills.

We invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Whether you are a parent seeking a nurturing environment for your child, or a member of the community looking to support our mission, we welcome you with open arms. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of neurodiverse children, helping them to flourish in all aspects of their lives.

For more information about our upcoming therapeutic preschool, please contact Bethany Crane, Ward Church Special Needs Director at bethany.crane@ward.church.

We look forward to partnering with you in this important and rewarding endeavor.