When looking at a preschool with a program for a child on the autism spectrum, a parent/caregiver should consider:

• What is the general philosophy of the program?
• What methodology does the program employ?

If this is an ABA program:

• Do you have a program book?
• Who writes programs/ curriculum?
• How is data taken and kept?
• What kind of supervision is provided for your classes?
• What classroom ratios do you offer?
• Where is ABA delivered? Is it in classroom? Cubby? Who observes?
• How long does the child in direct instruction?
• How are children grouped? What opportunities are available to generalize skills?
• How is communication between parent, home program (if one exists) and school program established?

For all children on the autism spectrum (not restricted to ABA programs):

• Do you provide related services? How and where are they delivered?
• Who develops a behavior plan if needed? How is the plan communicated to others for carryover?
• What type of family training and/or support model do you employ?
• Does family training have to be specified on the IEP?
• What is your observation policy?
• Do you address sensory issues?
• Do your teachers and support staff use alternative communication systems (i.e.: PECS, Sign, Augmentative Devices)?
• How do you obtain augmentative evaluations?
• Are there opportunities for inclusion?
• What other treatment options do you support/offer?
• Does your summer program differ from your school year program?