Our program is inspired by the British Columbia Early Learning Framework and provides a play-based, child-centred learning environment where children develop confidence, independence, social skills, communication, creativity, and early literacy foundations. Through exploration, discovery, and meaningful relationships, we support each child’s unique learning journey while fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Instructional activities are organized into three ways of learning:
Our curriculum is also inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Group Program. Through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships, children develop confidence, creativity, communication skills, and school readiness
Reggio Emilia Philosophy
In a Reggio-inspired classroom, children are encouraged to:
Reggio Emilia Philosophy
In a Reggio-inspired classroom, children are encouraged to:
At Symbiosis KIDS Center, our Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Group Program is designed to support young children with autism and related developmental differences through a play-based, relationship-focused, and evidence-based approach.
The program combines the principles of developmental learning strategies in a natural and engaging preschool-style environment. Our goal is to help children build meaningful communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, independence, and learning skills while feeling safe, connected, and motivated.
What is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)?
The Early Start Denver Model is an internationally recognized early intervention approach developed for young children, typically between 12 months and 5 years of age, who demonstrate autism-related social communication differences or developmental delays.
ESDM focuses on learning through:
Children learn best when they are emotionally engaged and having fun. ESDM therapists use play, imitation, movement, songs, sensory experiences, and interactive routines to encourage learning in a joyful and meaningful way.
Our Group-Based ESDM Approach
The Symbiosis KIDS Center ESDM Group Program provides children with opportunities to learn alongside peers in a supportive and structured setting. Small group experiences help children practice social communication and participation skills in real-life interactions.
Group activities may include:
Our educators carefully adapt activities based on each child’s developmental level, communication style, sensory profile, and interests.
Key Areas of Development
At Symbiosis KIDS Center, our Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) Group Program is designed to support young children with autism and related developmental differences through a play-based, relationship-focused, and evidence-based approach.
The program combines the principles of developmental learning strategies in a natural and engaging preschool-style environment. Our goal is to help children build meaningful communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, independence, and learning skills while feeling safe, connected, and motivated.
What is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)?
The Early Start Denver Model is an internationally recognized early intervention approach developed for young children, typically between 12 months and 5 years of age, who demonstrate autism-related social communication differences or developmental delays.
ESDM focuses on learning through:
Children learn best when they are emotionally engaged and having fun. ESDM therapists use play, imitation, movement, songs, sensory experiences, and interactive routines to encourage learning in a joyful and meaningful way.
Our Group-Based ESDM Approach
The Symbiosis KIDS Center ESDM Group Program provides children with opportunities to learn alongside peers in a supportive and structured setting. Small group experiences help children practice social communication and participation skills in real-life interactions.
Group activities may include:
Our educators carefully adapt activities based on each child’s developmental level, communication style, sensory profile, and interests.
Key Areas of Development
Features of our Curriculum
Family-Centered Philosophy
Parents and caregivers may receive:
● Regular progress updates
● Home strategy suggestions
● Collaborative goal planning
● Guidance for supporting communication and play at home
● Opportunities for parent consultation and coaching
We believe that children make the greatest progress when families and professionals work together in a supportive partnership.
Inclusive and Neurodiversity
-Affirming Environment
● Warm and welcoming
● Structured yet flexible
● Sensory-considerate
● Play-based and engaging
● Safe and emotionally supportive
Visual supports, predictable routines, sensory regulation strategies, and individualized supports are incorporated throughout the program to help children feel successful and secure.
Individualized Educational
support
Through a holistic and collaborative model, we provide individualized interventions for areas such as reading, writing, math, executive functioning, attention, study skills, and social-emotional learning. Using multisensory teaching methods, play-based learning, and ongoing progress monitoring, we ensure that each child receives the support they need in a meaningful and engaging way.
