The 1st Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey Preschool Program encourages each of our children to grow and develop according to his/her individual needs. Developing interpersonal relationships is the foundation to learning. Within a small group, which becomes a family, each child receives the attention and warmth that ensures social, emotional and academic growth.
Our loving and highly qualified teachers in childhood development and therapeutic techniques lead daily classroom activities that enhance the development of the whole child.
Because all children learn through play and movement, our preschool program provides an environment that gives each child the opportunity to develop brain (cognitive) function by engaging in a variety of multi-sensory experiences. Our preschool program follows the Creative Curriculum which promotes learning experiences designed for each age-group and flexibly tailored to each child’s needs with high-quality, research-based resources.
Each child is brought along through the developmental levels of facilitated play, guided play, parallel play, reciprocal play, interactive play, and role-playing.
School Principal
Keith Rygiel, Associate Director / Principal
Dr. Rygiel has more than 20 years of experience in special education at 1st Cerebral Palsy of NJ. He began his career as a member of our physical therapy department before furthering his education and transitioning into an administrative role. He has the experience, knowledge and skills necessary to be an effective school leader. Please contact him anytime – he would be happy to answer all your questions on anything from child placement to state regulations to parents’ rights. He is also available for personal tours of our facility.
Teachers
An interdisciplinary approach is critical to the success of our school and our students. Teachers work hand-in-hand with therapists to give each student a consistent and intensive program that fosters success in all areas.
Technology We Use
Our classrooms are equipped with desktop computers with touch screen capabilities, iPads and interactive SmartBoards. For those students who need alternative access, we have a variety of switches that can be used to interact with compatible software. Our computer programs help young students develop pre-reading skills, rhyming, numbers and counting, spatial awareness, colors and patterns, musical styles, languages, and thinking skills. Our building is wired for Wi-Fi capabilities throughout.