learning problems

Neurodivergent Learners: A Parent-Centered Approach

May 20, 2025 by Marci

parent-centered approach to neurodivergent learners

At our Arizona school, parents tells us daily that traditional educational models are falling short in addressing the unique needs of their neurodivergent learners and children on the autism spectrum.

Without inclusive, supportive, and individualized learning environments, young children get left behind in mainstream school settings. That’s why we offer a parent-centered approach that goes beyond traditional education.

TIP: We tell parents to follow their gut and if they don’t feel empowered, or in control, in their current situation, their child is in the wrong school.

Better Strategies for Neurodivergent Learners

There are four primary ways to provide a right-sized education for children who are neurodivergent learners. This is accomplished through small class sizes, the integration of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapies, highly trained educators, and active parental involvement.

First: Smaller Class Sizes

Research consistently highlights the benefits of smaller class sizes, particularly for students with special educational needs. Smaller classes enable powerful strategies like:

Personalized Instruction: Teachers can right-size lessons to individual learning styles and needs, enhancing academic outcomes.
Enhanced Social Interaction: A more intimate classroom setting allows for focused social engagement, crucial for children with autism who often struggle in larger groups.
Improved Emotional Support: Teachers can build stronger relationships with each student, providing the emotional support necessary for holistic development.

Second: Integration of ABA Therapies

ABA therapy is a well-established learning method that uses behavior modification techniques to encourage positive behaviors and minimize challenging ones. Studies have shown that ABA is effective in improving emotional and social skills in children with autism spectrum disorder, or ASD.

Certified ABA therapists at Rockwood Preparatory Academy, work closely to incorporate these strategies into daily learning and reinforcing positive behaviors. For parents who choose to keep their child in a traditional school setting, we also offer ABA therapies at ABA Connections.

Third: Choose Teachers with Specialized Training

Teachers with specialized ABA therapy training use evidence-based interventions to improve classroom learning, address behavioral challenges, and create more inclusive environments for all students.

This training equips them with the skills to personalize education plans, collaborate effectively with other professionals and families, and foster positive social-emotional development through:

Enhanced Classroom Learning – ABA training allows teachers to implement strategies like discrete trial teaching, naturalistic teaching, and positive reinforcement which have been proven effective in promoting learning and skill acquisition.
Improved Focus and Attention – ABA techniques can help students develop better attention spans and focus, leading to improved academic performance.
Proactive Behavior Management – Teachers can implement strategies to prevent and manage challenging behaviors, creating a more positive and productive classroom environment.
Teaching Self-Regulation Skills – ABA training equips teachers to teach students essential self-regulation skills, such as emotional regulation, impulse control, and conflict resolution.
Individualized Support – This is especially helpful for students with diverse learning needs and is achieved by creating a more inclusive and equitable learning experience.
Promoting Social-Emotional Development – ABA principles can be used to teach social skills, communication, and emotional understanding, fostering positive social interactions and relationships.
Improving Communication Skills – ABA can help students develop and improve their communication skills, including verbal and non-verbal communication.
Enhancing Social Skills – ABA interventions can help students learn and practice social skills, such as taking turns, sharing, and interacting appropriately with others.
Increasing Independence – By teaching essential skills and providing individualized support, ABA can help students become more independent in various areas of their lives.

Parental Involvement: The Secret to Success

We believe that parents are essential partners in their child’s education. Active parental involvement leads to better educational outcomes and much-needed advocacy, especially for neurodivergent learners.

TIP: If you feel that your child’s current educational setting isn’t meeting their needs, first know your rights, then seek out support groups, and consider alternative options like Rockwood Prep to provide the tailored support your child requires to thrive.

Take the Next Step

We’re committed to creating an environment where neurodivergent learners can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. The Rockwood Prep approach is rooted in respect, understanding, and collaboration with families.

Now it’s up to you… empower your child with an education that recognizes and nurtures their potential. Sign up for a tour today or contact us here to learn more about our programs and how we can support your family’s educational journey.

Power Play: Why Playtime Is Essential for Learning-Divergent Kids

May 6, 2025 by Marci

Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, a learning disability, or simply learns differently, one of the most powerful tools you can give them isn’t found in a textbook or on a screen… it’s PLAY.

At Rockwood Prep, we see firsthand how meaningful, screen-free play transforms the way our students think, process, and grow. Here’s why playtime is so vital for neurodivergent children, and why it’s more important than ever to protect it.

Play Builds the Brain

Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) confirms that play is not just fun, it’s fundamental to brain development. During unstructured play, children build critical skills like:

Executivefunction (planning, organizing, and flexible thinking)
Self-regulation (managing emotions and impulses)
Working memory
Social-emotional connection and empathy

By comparison, these are the same areas where many learning-divergent children struggle. Through regular, imaginative play, children have a chance to strengthen these abilities naturally without pressure, expectations, tests, or deadlines.

FACT: A 2018 AAP clinical report tells us that play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength.

For Neurodivergent Learners, Play Can Be a Gateway to Learning

Children with autism, ADHD, or learning differences often learn best through movement, hands-on exploration, and visual experiences all of which are core elements of play.

Four benefits of regularly scheduled playtime include:

Improved attention spans after outdoor or sensory play
Better communication skills through imaginative group play
Increased confidence in problem-solving during creative games
Lower anxiety when kids are given time for free, unstructured play

Even something as simple as a 20-minute break for playtime can dramatically improve a child’s ability to focus, listen, and learn.

Screen Time Is Not Play Time

While we can accept that screens are a big part of modern life especially for neurodivergent children, who may gravitate to devices for comfort or stimulation, but screen time and playtime are not the same, and one cannot replace the other.

Too much screen time has been linked to decreased social skills, shorter attention spans, lower academic performance, and increased sleep problems and irritability

TIP: Active, social play helps balance the nervous system and creates opportunities for real-world problem-solving and connection.

According to the National Library of Medicine (NIH), children aged 8–12 spend an average of 4–6 hours a day on screens, while teens average 7+ hours.

How to Encourage More Play at Home

Listed below are some practical, screen-free playtime ideas that support neurodivergent learners:

Sensory bins with rice, beans, or kinetic sand
Dress-up and pretend play to build imagination
Building with Legos or blocks to support spatial learning
Outdoor play like swinging, jumping, or water play
Board games that teach turn-taking, planning, and flexibility
Art and crafts to enhance creativity and fine motor skills

Remember: play doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. Even 30 minutes a day of child-led, unplugged play makes a big difference.

At our Arizona-based private school for children with autism, ADHD, and learning differences, we include play into our academic model. From movement breaks to sensory stations to structured play therapy, we ensure that every child has opportunities to learn in the way their brain was built to learn.

Ready to see how a play-based, personalized approach can transform your child’s education?

The Three Levels of Dyslexia

July 3, 2024 by Marci

As a parent, it’s important to know that there are three different levels of dyslexia. This knowledge and other information will help you effectively advocate for your child in school.

First, let’s review the basic definition of dyslexia. This common learning disability affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. It can make reading and writing difficult for children, but the good news is that with the right support and interventions, children with dyslexia can succeed in school.

Three Levels of Dyslexia

Mild dyslexia may not be noticeable until a child starts school and struggles with reading and writing. Signs of mild dyslexia in preschool and elementary-aged children may include:

difficulty pronouncing words
trouble rhyming
difficulty learning the alphabet
include slow or inaccurate reading
poor spelling
difficulty with phonemic awareness.

In middle and high school-aged children, signs may include difficulty with grammar, comprehension, and expressing thoughts in writing.

Interesting fact: For children with dyslexia to reach their highest reading potential, the disorder must be remediated before age seven or eight using intensive, explicit reading interventions.

Moderate dyslexia is more noticeable and may require more intensive interventions and support. Signs of moderate dyslexia may include:

difficulty with reading fluency
trouble decoding words
poor spelling
struggles with reading comprehension
problems with written language

Severe dyslexia is the most challenging level and may require specialized instruction and accommodations. Signs of severe dyslexia may include:

very slow or inaccurate reading
poor spelling
significant difficulties with comprehension
problems with written expression
difficulty with handwriting
problems with written language

How Parents Can Advocate for Their Child

As a parent, it’s important to advocate for your dyslexic child in school. This may involve requesting a formal evaluation for dyslexia, working with teachers and specialists to develop an individualized education plan (IEP), and ensuring that your child receives appropriate accommodations and support.

Some accommodations for dyslexic students may include extra time on tests, audiobooks, speech-to-text software, and reading interventions.

It’s also important to educate yourself and become more aware about dyslexia and how it affects your child. Joining a support group or seeking out resources from dyslexia organizations can help you connect with other parents and learn more about dyslexia.

Remember that each child with dyslexia is unique, and what works for one child may not necessarily work for another.

By understanding the three different levels of dyslexia and advocating for your child in school, you can be the catalyst for your child to receive the support and interventions they need to succeed academically and unlock their full potential. Dyslexia is not a barrier to success – get out there and find the right support and accommodations. In you live in Arizona, we may be able to help. See rockwoodprep.com to learn more.

The Power of a Reading Routine

May 13, 2024 by Marci

Struggling readers face many challenges that make reading feel overwhelming and daunting. These challenges may include difficulties with decoding words, poor comprehension skills, or a lack of motivation to pick up a book.

These obstacles to reading are why teachers, parents, and children often feel frustrated, embarrassed, and discouraged.

That’s why we strongly suggest that parents add a regular reading routine, at home, to help address these challenges and provide struggling readers with the support they need to improve their reading skills and build confidence.

Establishing a consistent routine that incorporates daily reading time, can create a positive and encouraging environment that promotes a love of reading.

WHAT READING EXPERTS SAY

Reading experts tell us that struggling readers need early and frequent intervention. This is all supported by research that shows that targeted support and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for struggling readers.

Richard L. Allington, author of What Really Matters When Working with Struggling Readers, wrote, “There is good news and bad news on working with struggling readers. The good news is that we now have an essential research base demonstrating that virtually every child could be reading grade level by the end of first grade. The bad news is that almost no schools in the United States have anything in place that much looks like what the research says young children need to become engaged readers.” Some strategies that good teachers employ to help struggling readers include:

Reading and rereading familiar texts
Reading aloud with guidance
Providing students with a variety of books that they can read, understand, and enjoy
Using direct or explicit instruction
Focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension
Using inventive writing to motivate students
Using “sound stretching” to focus on phonemes

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

Your struggling reader will flourish with structure and an established time for reading at home, especially if this can be a shared experience with you.

Use these 11 ideas to help establish a beloved reading routine at home:

Start early: Reading aloud sessions that start in infancy lay a foundation for language acquisition, vocabulary growth, and creating a special bond between child and parent.
Create a designated reading nook: Find a corner, closet, or section of a room and deck it out with pillows, blankets, and books. So that the nook is effective, the area should feel serene and be far from other distractions.
Model reading: It doesn’t make sense to expect children to enjoy reading if they don’t see us enjoying reading. Model joyful reading by ditching screen time for more read time. The enthusiastically sharing your favorite, age-appropriate parts of the book you are reading in the car or at dinner.
Ask questions: Take time to ask your child what they are reading and what they like about their book. Reading comprehension is nothing more than understanding what’s being read, so ask questions and listen to the answers.
Audio reading: You can support your struggling reader with audiobooks. Audio books are very helpful for students with dyslexia. However, audiobooks should never replace reading a book.
Be consistent: Celebrity life coach, Tony Robbins teaches that, “Repetition is the mother of skill.” This statement couldn’t be truer for struggling readers. Make it happen parents! Your child must read every single morning or night, even if it’s for five minutes.
Celebrate progress: Don’t forget to praise your child for their efforts and improvements in reading, no matter how small. Many children thrive with a reward system, like special treats, fun activities, or even earning a sticker that’s tracked on a poster board chart.
Encourage exploration of different books: Oftentimes children get stuck in thinking that there is only one genre of book that they like. Introduce your student to a variety of book formats and genres but get their buy-in to try something new that interests them and caters to their preferred preferences.
Take advantage of everyday reading opportunities: As you take your littles to school, play date, or their next appointment read billboards and signs together as you travel along the way. You can also teach your children to read food labels and package instructions at home. Each engagement reinforces reading skills.
Send love notes: Every child enjoys receiving letters in the mail, or little notes and cards hidden strategically throughout your home.
Advocate for your student: All children deserve the opportunity to be academically successful—no matter what academic challenges they face. Make certain that they are receiving every opportunity to learn and excel at school.

So, are we in favor of a regular, non-negotiable reading routine? Absolutely!

We know that having strong decoding and reading skills helps students to build knowledge, skills, confidence, and independence. No matter what is happening (or not happening) at your school to help your struggling reader, you can make a difference by creating a systematic, consistent reading routine at home.

How We Model Behavior in Children

March 11, 2024 by Marci

When it comes to being a copycat, young children are excellent students. They are watching parents, other children, and caregivers to see how we talk, react, move, and interact with others.

You probably don’t need research to tell you people learn by watching others. To reinforce this social learning theory there was a famous Bobo doll experiment demonstrated how kids imitate adult behavior.

Researchers discovered that children treated a doll the same way the adults did.

Children who watched an adult become aggressive with the doll became aggressive in their interactions too, while children who watched adults treat the doll kindly imitated the kindness.

Watch out for too much screen time. Research shown that young children watch an average of 4-6 hours a day of screen time. Surprisingly, children as young as 14 months can repeat actions that they observe by watching a video for 20 seconds!

4 Reasons Why Children Model Behavior

Children don’t just copy others’ behaviors because they don’t have anything better to do. They model others’ behaviors if:

they see a person being rewarded for their behavior. If that happens, they are more likely to model that behavior. The opposite can be true. If a child sees someone being punished for their behavior, then they will likely not imitate that same behavior.
they look up to someone who is in an authoritative position like a parent or teacher. Or they will model behavior of a celebrity or someone that they really admire.
Those they closely observe and model those are like them – those who are the same age and sex, and those who share the same interests.
they lack confidence or are unfamiliar with a situation, then they are likely to observe others to understand and mimic what they do.

Modeling Positive Behaviors Can Be Tricky

There are times that you might unknowingly model unhealthy behaviors for the young ones around you. Here are some examples of unhealthy behaviors:

Parents tell their kids to treat everyone with respect. Then they make fun of others or say critical comments about other people behind their backs.
A mother tells the cashier at a movie theater that her 12-year-old is only 11 so she can get a discount. The child learns it’s okay to be untruthful to get what you want.
A dad spends his evenings watching sports on television but tells son he doesn’t read often enough.
Parents tell their kids to share and be generous with what they have, yet they never make donations or get involved in any type of volunteer work.
A divorced couple argues all the time about money, custody issues, and visitation, but they expect their children never to quarrel.
A father tells his kids that they should eat healthily, but he sneaks candy after they go to bed.
A mother tells her daughter to be kind to others, but she yells at the store clerk when the store refuses to take back an item she tries to return.

Take a Walk on the Positive Side

Watching other people cooperate, share, take turns and demonstrate generosity can teach children to exemplify those behaviors too.

Michigan State University Extension has some tips on how to ensure your child has opportunities to witness and experience modeling in a positive way.

Be intentional about your child’s surroundings. Do your best to surround your children with constructive models and situations where positive behaviors are reinforced. If there are places, people or activities that model negative or worrisome behavior, work to find more positive situations for your child.

Notice the positive. When it comes to child behavior, you will often get more of the behaviors you are noticing. Point out positive behaviors in your child and in others, provide reinforcement and talk about them with your child. Catch your child being good!

Limit or eliminate exposure to negative influences. Violent or aggressive television shows, movies, games, or activities are teaching your child. Even interactions with other children and adults can prove to be a negative modeling experience for your child. When possible, limit or eliminate these experiences and work to provide more positive models for your child. When in doubt, think of your child doing exactly what they are observing and ask yourself if you would be proud of that behavior. If the answer is “no,” you may be helping your child learn a lesson you don’t want them to know.

Talk about it. When a situation cannot be avoided or a child witnesses negative modeling behavior, think of it as a teachable moment. You can talk to your child about what constitutes acceptable and helpful behavior, what it looks like and why the negative behaviors are not acceptable. Children not only learn from watching, but listening too.

Do as you say. You are your child’s first and most important teacher. They are watching and learning from you each and every day, whether or not you intend to teach them. Show them kindness and love, model compassion and helpfulness and teach them positive ways of interacting with people and the world around them. SOURCE: Michigan State University Research

Be sure to follow the rules that you set for your child. Children have difficulty understanding how a rule can be broken “sometimes” by an adult without the adult receiving punishment. So, when we try to discipline a child for breaking a rule we have set, we are likely to get some push back.

Show children, don’t just tell them. Often children don’t understand or know how to do what we are telling them to do. Also, no one likes to be lectured. So, the next time something needs to be done, take a moment to show the them what you would like them to do.

TIP: It is important as the adults that we try our best not to reflect own anxiety and depression on children. It is too easy for our children to pick up and model anxiety, and depression. See help for you and your child if you struggle managing depression and anxiety.

Take time now to remember that we can create a life worth emulating to our young people. Start by taking a moment every day to think about what we specifically want our kids to learn and try to model.

Why a Private School May Be the Answer

March 11, 2024 by Marci

Private Schools for Learning Disabilities

As a parent of a child with learning disabilities, it can be a difficult decision to choose the right educational setting for your child.

While many public schools are equipped to provide services for children with learning disabilities, a private school that specializes in supporting these students may be the best option for your child.

Private schools for children with learning disabilities offer:

a smaller class size
individualized instruction
social behavioral technicians
respite care and activities
specialized support services tailored to meet the unique needs of each student

This type of personalized approach to learning can lead to greater academic success and improved self-confidence for your child.

One of the biggest advantages of a private school for children with learning disabilities is the expertise and experience of the staff.

Teachers and administrators at these schools are often trained in working with students with learning disabilities and have a deep understanding of the challenges these students face. They can provide the guidance and support necessary for your child to thrive academically and socially.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH LEANING DISABILITIES

Many private schools, like Rockwood Prep, who cater to students who have different learning modalities due to dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, and other spectrum disorders offer additional services that are critical to the emotional and intellectual well-being of students.

Some of these services include:

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)
Life Skill Training
DTT (Discrete Trial Training)
Habilitation
Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy
Respiratory Therapy
Respite Care
Speech Therapy / Feeding Therapy
Transportation
Work Transition Programs

Additionally, private schools for children with learning disabilities often have access to resources and technology that may not be available in a public school setting. This can further enhance your child’s educational experience and help them reach their full potential.

IS A PRIVATE SCHOOL RIGHT FOR YOUR STUDENT?

Children and young adults diagnosed with learning disabilities, require help with more than traditional academic difficulties to be happy and successful, they also need strategies to learn how to manage:

Sensory Issues
Low Processing Speed
Nonverbal Learning Disorders
Social Communication Disorders
Developmental Immaturity
Low Working Memory
Anxiety and Other Mood Disorders

MAKING A PRIVATE SCHOOL AFFORDABLE

While the cost of a private school education can be a barrier for many families, there are resources available to help offset the expense. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid options are commonly available for students with learning disabilities.

Organizations such as the Learning Disabilities Association of America and the National Center for Learning Disabilities offer resources and information on financial assistance for parents of children with learning disabilities.

Private education schools like Rockwood Prep, located in Arizona, assist students and their parents find financial help. Over 95% of our students utilize the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) to fund their tuition.

ESA application can be obtained by visiting the ESA Department of Education website to review eligibility requirements and complete an application.

With specialized support services, experienced staff, and access to resources, private schools can help your child succeed academically and build confidence in their abilities. By exploring financial aid options and scholarships, you may be able to make this valuable educational opportunity a reality for your child.