A PRESCHOOL program aimed at children with autism will start in Moonee Ponds next week.

The Little Learners Autism Program will provide children more than 20 hours of specialised therapy each week.

The program is a joint venture between Autism Partnership and Centre for Inclusive Schooling of Children With Autism.

Autism Partnership psychologist Karen McKinnon said children would receive one-on-one and small group care.

The program will be run at the All 4 Kids childcare centre so they would also be able to interact with other children.

"They can go into the typical childcare rooms with one of our staff and do inclusion as well," Ms McKinnon said.

"Our goal is to provide a program that is comprehensive and to do it in a childcare setting."

The program has six staff looking after five children enrolled so far and has three more places to fill.

Ms McKinnon said they had an open-door policy for parents, who are invited to watch the therapy.

Details: 9375 2469.

Excerpt from:
New preschool program for children with autism in Moonee Ponds