DD with ASD - launch program?

[JSerene]

The launch program is for high functioning autism spectrum/asperger's kids. Kids from all ages are in this one room and work on their academics there. It has a gross motor room attached and also a quiet room. Academics are alternated with something the child chooses from their personal "choice chart" as motivation to follow the teacher led activity. Over time, an attempt is made to mainstream the child in the regular classroom with their own guide. If it doesn't work, they stay in the launch room as long as needed.

The program sounds great to me; it's set up to meet the needs of ASD kids and sounds exactly like what my dd would respond to....but...we were planning to homeschool and I feel very strongly about that. I don't think 5 is the right age to sit kids still and make them learn academics. On the other hand, maybe this is what she needs since she is special needs.

Any experience? Any advice to share? I'm really on the fence. Launch or homeschool? If she goes to launch for kindergarten, we would home school after that.

[karenstir7]

If you try it and it doesn't work then you could always pull her out and homeschool her.

How many kids are in the classroom? What are the ages of these kids? What is the teacher child ratio? Have you met anyone else involved? Are you able to go and observe before you make a decision? How would potential situations be handled concerning your child? What is the teachers experience and background with these kids?

Those are the first of many questions I would be asking. Only you know what's right for your daughter, but go in with many questions...