Library & News Room | Arizona Institute for Autism

ABA School Readiness in Arizona | AIA Preparatory Academy (Ages 2–6)

Written by Rula Diab, Clinical Director, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA | Aug 21, 2025 2:48:53 AM

At the Arizona Institute for Autism (AIA), children ages 2–6 are welcomed into the AIA Preparatory Academy, a unique program that combines accredited curriculum with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Our goal is to create a structured, nurturing, and supportive learning environment where every child can develop the skills they need for long-term success in school and life.

Our Unique Approach to Early Childhood Development

Traditional education systems may not provide the individualized support some children need to thrive. AIA Preparatory Academy uses evidence-based behavioral strategies within an academic setting to strengthen social, emotional, communication, and foundational academic skills. This approach is especially beneficial for children with autism or developmental differences, as it builds independence while preparing them for future classroom transitions.

Who Teaches at AIA Preparatory Academy?

Our team of highly trained professionals ensures that children receive the best balance of academic learning and individualized care:

  • Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs): Provide one-on-one and small group support to keep children engaged.
  • Master’s-Level Clinical Instructors: Lead instruction, oversee case planning, and ensure data-driven decisions guide progress.
  • Collaborative Team Support: Every classroom maintains low ratios so that children benefit from consistent attention and personalized teaching.

What Makes Our Program Stand Out?

Unlike traditional preschools, AIA Preparatory Academy embeds ABA strategies throughout the day. Key program features include:

  • Accredited early childhood curriculum tailored to developmental needs
  • Play-based learning balanced with structured routines
  • Group instruction covering language, communication, social skills, early academics, and self-help independence
  • Structured circle time and learning centers for peer interaction
  • Ongoing assessments for tiered placement and readiness for transition

Transition-Ready Learning

Children are placed in one of two tiers based on their readiness:

  1. Intensive 1:1 Learning for children new to structured environments.
  2. Small Group Learning where children begin following group instructions and routines, preparing them to enter mainstream kindergarten or early elementary settings.

Each child’s customized plan is tailored to their developmental goals while encouraging progress in group settings. Whether a child is just starting to attend intensive 1:1 learning or ready to follow group instructions, we meet them where they are and help them grow.

Supporting the Whole Child

AIA Preparatory Academy is ideal for children who may benefit from:

  • A structured classroom with consistent ABA support
  • Exposure to group learning and social opportunities
  • Early skill-building in communication, play, life skills and independence
  • Preparation for long-term academic success

Enroll Today in AIA Preparatory Academy program

If your child is between the ages of 2 and 6 and could benefit from a program that integrates ABA therapy with accredited education, we invite you to enroll at AIA Preparatory Academy. Together, we can create the foundation for confident, capable learners.

Comparison: Traditional preschool vs AIA Preparatory Academy

Feature Traditional Preschool AIA Preparatory Academy
Curriculum General early childhood curriculum Accredited curriculum with ABA integration
Individualized Support Limited, often 1:10+ ratios Low ratios with 1:1 and small group instruction
Behavioral Strategies Not consistently embedded ABA principles woven into every activity
Social Skills Development Play and peer interaction Peer interaction with guided skill-building
Progress Monitoring Periodic teacher assessments Continuous data-driven progress evaluation
Transition Readiness General kindergarten prep Tiered learning paths for smooth transitions