Preschool (Ages 3–5)
Preschool Therapy Services –
Therapy support for children ages 3 to 5 in their preschool setting
Preschool Therapy Services are provided to children ages 3 to 5 who have been identified as having a disability that affects their ability to participate in their preschool or community environment. SLC Therapy holds contracts with Erie, Niagara, Wyoming, and Genesee Counties to provide Preschool Therapy Services — bringing skilled therapists directly into the preschool classroom where your child learns every day.
How it works
Therapy where your child learns
Rather than bringing your child to a clinic, our therapists come directly to your child’s preschool or approved program. Therapy is provided right in the classroom setting, woven into your child’s daily routine. This approach makes it easier for children to learn new skills and apply them naturally in real life situations alongside their peers.
How does my child qualify?
Children typically transition from Early Intervention to Preschool Special Education services around their third birthday. At that time, your county’s Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) will evaluate your child to determine eligibility for continued services. If your child qualifies, the CPSE will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) outlining the services they will receive. Families may also refer their preschool-aged child directly to their county CPSE if they have new concerns about development.
Services we provide:
- Speech Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
Where we provide services
Our therapists work in a variety of approved preschool settings including local preschool classrooms, Head Start programs, day care centers, and approved special education programs. We coordinate closely with classroom teachers and program staff to make sure therapy goals connect with what your child is working on every day in the classroom.
What About Cost
Preschool Therapy Services are funded through your county and New York State — families are not directly billed for services provided through the CPSE process. Our team is happy to walk you through how the funding and referral process works in your specific county.
Ready to learn more?
If your child is approaching their third birthday and currently receiving Early Intervention services, or if you have concerns about your preschool-aged child’s development, we are here to help guide you through the next steps.
We help you understand next steps and coordinate with your preschool program so services start smoothly and stay consistent.
1) CPSE referral & evaluation
If you have concerns, your school district’s CPSE can guide you through referral and evaluation. We’re happy to answer questions and help you prepare.
2) IEP & service recommendations
If your child qualifies, the CPSE team develops an IEP outlining goals and recommended services (SLP, OT, PT, and/or SEIT).
3) Scheduling & start of services
Our office coordinates with you and the preschool program to schedule sessions at times that fit the school day and your child’s routine.
4) Ongoing therapy, carryover & updates
Therapy is play-based and goal-focused. We share strategies for home and classroom carryover and provide progress updates along the way.