Reply to Applying to mainstream private schools: When/how should I tell the admission about DC's autism?

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Reply to "Applying to mainstream private schools: When/how should I tell the admission about DC's autism?"

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP here. What I meant by "social support" is any of the following:
- Recognizing that even though my DC looks content playing alone, DC needs to learn to play with other kids.  
- Understanding that recess (and other non-structured periods) are the golden opportunity for my DC is learn social skills and willing to help DC to connect with other kids, even just by simple gesture "Let's see what (Friend A) is playing." or said to (Friend A),"(DC) might be interested in what you're doing."
In short, the teacher should TRY to help facilitate social interaction as much as he/she would help other kids academically in the classroom.
- This might be a a stretch for most schools and will make them anxious ...  consider parents bringing in an outside therapist during recess (push-in, not pull out).

I really try to be honest about my DC's diagnosis and needs, if there's an opportunity to talk to the admission privately during school visits/tours, but it always felt that I dropped a bomb and created a tension/awkwardness once the word "autism" comes out.
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If these are the type of social supports you are looking for, you need to look at SN privates like Auburn.  [b]Mainstream schools, public or private, do not provide these supports[/b].  Public schools will provide it, if you specify in the IEP.  [b]I cannot image a school allowing you to bring in an outside therapist[/b] during recess past preschool.[/quote]

These are blanket statements, so there's probably some truth and untruths.  Many mainstream privates do have support services like ST and OTs.  Some have social skills curriculums as part of educational approaches.  (I have known some privates that have brought in outside therapist.  Not common, but not impossible.)

Would your kid be able to respond to academic instruction and basically function in a classroom.  From what you describe, your kid has rudimentary skills but could limp along socially without supports. If you are in denial and this is really "pie-in-the sky," then look at a SN school.

OP, I would look at Maddux.  It's a mainstream school with built in educational supports.  I'd invest the time and money now for a social skills group.  Ivymount has great ones.  In terms of traditional mainstream schools, focus your efforts on schools that have small classrooms and preferably already use a social skills curriculum and offer OT/ST.  Even if your kid doesn't need ST/OT, it's an indication that schools acknowledge that some kids need support.

You still have to do testing, applications are generally due in January, and if your kid meets the first round, there is the playdate, which will be in the spring of 2016.  Don't put your eggs in one basket, don't cross off SN schools b/c they are SN.  Apply to a few different kinds of schools.  For SN schools, the Exceptional Schools Fair is coming up:  http://www.exceptionalschoolsfair.com
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PP, what are the many mainstream schools that offer these supports? Please name them. I always thought Maddux was a special school.[/quote]

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