The Peer Model Program, located at Hanthorn Early Education, provides a free opportunity for children to be integrated into Early Childhood Special Education classrooms to support and interact with our students with special
needs.

Peer Model students provide positive peer interactions, demonstrate play skills, and model appropriate language and behavior for children with special needs while in the classroom setting.

The Peer Model Program consists of AM and PM 3-hour sessions. Session placement is determined by district boundaries.

AM Session: 8:50 - 11:50 AM
PM Session: 1:35 - 4:35 PM

Peer models are expected to demonstrate age-appropriate skills across all developmental areas:

• Social Skills
  • Shares and takes turns, most of the time
  • Enjoys playing with other children
• Speech/Language
  • Speaks clearly using more complex sentences
  • Follows two- to three-step directions
• Gross/Fine Motor & Self Help
  • Walks up and down stairs without assistance
  • Walks forwards and backwards
  • Uses a fork or spoon
  • Dresses and undresses without much help
• Behavior
  • Expresses upset emotions verbally, not physically
  • Follows directions from adults
• Cognitive
  • Is beginning to recognize some letters and their name in print
  • Understands use of common objects
  • Names some shapes and colors

All peer models start with a 4-week trial period for enrollment. If it is determined during this time that your child is not able to demonstrate the age-appropriate skills across these developmental areas, it may result in a loss of placement in the Peer Model Classroom.