Since 1986 St. Francis Home has operated a Therapeutic Pre-School for children who demonstrate developmental delays or behavioral problems at home or in social settings. Capacity in the program is 25 children, and all children, ages 3 - 5, are recommended for the program by the Department of Children and Families.

Children are typically placed at St. Francis Home for one or two years. Classes form in early September and run every school day through the following August. The needs of each child are assessed, and the clinician assigned to their case works with the parents, DCF caseworker and other service providers to develop an individual treatment plan. Children who reach their fifth birthday are typically "promoted" to enter kindergarten although for some children additional pre-school experience may be indicated.

The typical day in the Pre-School begins with breakfast at St. Francis Home. Children receive instruction in language arts and age-appropriate vocabulary and reading skills. In addition, there are times for interactive and therapeutic recreation, individual and group therapy. After a hearty lunch children have time to play and then rest - nap time - before going home. St. Francis Home provides door-to-door transportation for the children who attend our program.

St. Francis Home is launching a new "Reading Readiness" program, with a Reading Specialist to develop and implement individualized learning programs for the children in the Pre-School. Our goal is to help each child be ready for positive experiences in kindergarten, academically, emotionally and socially.