Special Needs Programs for Young Children in Bangkok

ATOC Acorns to Oaks Children Centre:
Located off Sukhumvit Road in the Watthana District of Bangkok, Acorns to Oaks Children Centre (ATOC) is a well resources learning centre with a multidisciplinary team providing services such as early intervention programmes for children between the ages of 2 and 7 years. These services are provided for children whom have learning difficulties, autism and other developmental delays and include speech therapy in English, Dutch and German, occupational therapy, educational, developmental and behavioural assessments, individual and group English language classes, as well as workshops for parents and teachers. Programmes for each child are individualised to maximise their progress and prepare them for the mainstream school.

Early Intervention Education Programs:

- Start Right Early Intervention Programme (2 years–6 years):
Full-time placement on the Start Right Early Intervention Programme is based on an assessment of need. A Monday to Friday Early Intervention programme where small groups, intensive training and systematic therapy are used to develop skills at a more rapid rate than would happen in a larger learning environment. Therapists and teachers work together on specific and individual objectives for each child.

The curriculum used is the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 of the National Curriculum (UK) and in addition a progressive skills based learning profile. School readiness skills are encouraged through a structured system of positive reinforcement and children thrive in this environment, where small step success is emphasised. Therapists work within the small groups and individually using an integrated team approach.

- Primary Preparation (6 years +) - Short Term Individualised Programmes:
Full time places for the older student are offered where the student needs intensive focused teaching prior to school admission; for example in the transition from a Thai school to an English speaking school; pending admission to an international school.

Children entering short term programmes will be assessed and specific skills developed through an individualised curriculum, linking with the UK National Curriculum. The psychologist will do assessments to look at individual learning profiles and our Educational Consultants will assess academic performance. Special education teachers can deliver a modified curriculum and work on life skills where necessary. School placement after the intensive programme is based on ‘the best fit’ environment for the child. Ongoing support is available if necessary after relocation.

Direct Instruction:
Our qualified teachers will work with the child for a specified number of half hour or one hour sessions on identified needs. Schools working in partnership request the learning objectives and outcomes each term. Individualised planning, monitoring and progress review ensures that the goals identified are appropriate, attainable and rigorous to optimise learning success. Numerous academic skills are considered during the integrated teaching sessions.

Additionally: Gifted extension program, outreach program, home-schooling program, summer sessions & special needs programs.