PROGRAM OVERVIEW
A Therapeutic Early Childhood Model
AGES 3.6—6
Our Early Childhood program (Purple Cluster) provides a highly supportive, therapeutic environment for young learners. Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists are embedded in classrooms for a significant portion of the week, working alongside teachers to support communication, motor development, and early learning.
Through play-based exploration and multisensory instruction, students build foundational academic, social, and motor skills while developing confidence, independence, and a strong sense of belonging.
A Bridge to Academic Learning
AGES 6—7
As students grow, the Primary Division model evolves. For 6–7 year olds (Pink Cluster), there is a gradual shift toward a more academically focused program, with increased emphasis on reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.
Therapeutic support remains an integrated part of the program, with speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists continuing to work closely with teachers, though at a reduced level compared to the Early Childhood model. This balanced approach supports students as they build academic skills while continuing to strengthen communication, motor, and self-regulation abilities.
This transition helps students develop the skills, routines, and confidence needed for continued academic growth and a successful move into the Lower Division.
A Strong Start for Every Learner
Finding the right preschool for a child with learning or developmental differences can feel overwhelming. At Stephen Gaynor School, early intervention is not only key, it is transformational.
An Innovative Model of Early Intervention
Stephen Gaynor School’s Primary Division is a unique and research-informed model for students ages three to six. By combining the joyful experiences of early learning with evidence-based special education practices, the Primary Division helps children build academic, social, physical, and emotional foundations for lifelong success.
Learning Through Play and Purpose
In Primary, every experience, from building with blocks and drawing to listening during story time, nurtures curiosity, confidence, and independence. In our warm, engaging classrooms, students follow directions, collaborate with peers, and participate in hands-on learning that feels like play.
Individualized Learning and Expert Support
Across both models, students engage in a comprehensive academic program that includes reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. Instruction is individualized and delivered through multisensory, evidence-based approaches tailored to each child’s pace and strengths. A dedicated team of teachers, specialists, and therapists collaborates closely to support each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth.
Created in collaboration with Gaynor’s expert faculty and consultants, the EC environment is purposefully designed to inspire exploration, skill-building, and joy. Highlights include:
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A child-friendly kitchen where students plan and prepare healthy snacks, reinforcing math and fine motor skills while learning collaboration and nutrition.
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A cozy book nook designed exclusively for Primary students, complete with a lending library to foster early literacy, responsibility, and a love of reading.
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An on-site sensory gym designed by occupational therapy experts to refine gross and fine motor skills through guided play.
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Center-based classrooms equipped with thoughtful lighting, acoustics, and technology that create an optimal environment for young learners.
“When we first started in this process, I remember thinking, as a physician and as a surgeon, I fix things. I was so helpless with Ethan because I couldn’t fix his challenges. But Gaynor taught me that I wasn’t here to fix my son, I was here to help him focus not on the things that he couldn’t do but on the things that he could do.”
— Angela, mother of Ethan
