Written by:

Joanne J. Kim, PhD
Stephanny Freeman, PhD
Tanya Paparella, PhD
Kyle Sterrett, MA

WHY THIS CURRICULUM?

Autism is a social communication disorder. Children with ASD have difficulty using verbal and nonverbal communication socially. The challenge of addressing these core difficulties can be compounded by significant delays in other developmental domains.

The Pre-Communication Autism Social Engagement Skills Curriculum (PCSES) is designed for pre-verbal and minimally verbal learners, is empirically based, and easy-to-follow. Broad goals such as Early Interactional Skills with Adults, Joint Attention Skills, and Beginning Peer Interactions are broken down into smaller weekly goals that build upon each other, creating a foundation for social communication. It utilizes materials common to the classroom setting; however, materials and lessons can easily be adapted for use in different environments such as the home or clinic-based setting.

Not only are the goals clearly organized and easy to execute, the curriculum comes with weekly practice activities that reinforce lessons and facilitate generalization across people, locations, and objects. It is easy and intuitive for educators, therapists, and parents!