ABA-Based Tutoring

Research is demonstrating that students, especially those with disabilities, have fallen behind academically due to the school closures and virtually learning as a result of COVID-19.  DSAMT is very concerned about the long-term consequences of the social, physical and academic deficiencies experienced by those with Down syndrome.

Starting October 2, 2020, DSAMT will begin offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) - Based Tutoring sessions.  Sessions will take place at DSAMT and be 50 minutes per child, focused on communication, academic and social skills.  At this point, sessions are 1:1 but could become small group sessions, should it be appropriate and safe for the participating children.

Sessions will be conducted by Board Certified Behavioral Analyst, Julie Mayer.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a discipline used to promote the understanding and improvement of socially significant behavior by utilizing methods based on scientific principles of behavior, such as positive reinforcement (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 1987).  Ms. Mayer has been implementing behavior plans for children since 1995 and has significant success with children with Down syndrome and Autism.

To be eligible to participate, the individual must have Down syndrome and be of school age.  Sessions will last 50 minutes and be held at DSAMT (1310 Central Court, Hermitage, TN 37076).  There will be a non-refundable $50 supply fee to attend for 3 months.

Please note that this type of session would typically cost a family more than $100 per hour, as they are getting very high quality instruction from a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with a proven track record of success. 

These are highly valuable sessions, and attendance will be expected.  If you are not able to attend the session, DSAMT must be notified at least 24 hours prior, so that DSAMT isn't out the expense for that session.  Missing more than 2 sessions can result in dismissal for the semester. 

Caregivers will need to confirm that the child has been fever free for 24 hours prior to session, has not been recently exposed to anyone with COVID-19 and has not had any symptoms for 48 hours to protect both our children and staff.

Should you have any questions, please contact Alecia Talbott, executive director, at 615-454-3129 or [email protected].  Space is very limited and expected to fill very quickly.  A wait-list will be maintained, in case of cancellations/absences.