Early Intervention. Model & Demonstration Site. Replication.

Early Foundations is a model demonstration program for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) which provides comprehensive intervention using evidence-based strategies, primarily from the field of applied behavior analysis.
This unique project began in October 2007 at it’s original site, to address the importance of intensive intervention as soon as a child receives a diagnosis or shows at risk for having ASD and to provide these services in a developmentally appropriate setting that includes access to typical peers.

Children who are participating in this program receive a combination of services that are designed to meet the individual needs of the child. A unique aspect of this model is that it is located in a community early learning environment. As part of serving the youngest children with ASD, Early Foundations is partnered with Shawnee Public Schools and the Pup Pack, which offers to the community an inclusive daycare program for the children of SPS teachers and employees. Because of this unique partnership, children with ASD are able to participate in preschool activities and games with their peers.
Early Foundations launched it’s Shawnee site at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in the fall of 2019

Learn more about Early Foundations: https://www.autismcenterok.org/early-foundations/To speak with someone with Shawnee Public Schools regarding participation in our Early Foundations program, contact:

Shawnee Public Schools Administrative Central Office
(405) 273-0653
326 N. Union Ave.
Shawnee, OK  74801
https://www.shawnee.k12.ok.us/
The Early Foundations program in Shawnee is the work of a community cooperative made up of the following partners: the Avedis Foundation, Citizen Potawatomi Nation, the Oklahoma Autism Center, Shawnee Public Schools, Shawnee St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, and Sooner Start.



Ten Early Warning Signs for Autism

  • Does not react to caregiver reaching to pick him or her
  • Rarely imitates expressions
  • Delayed or infrequent babbling
  • Does not respond to his or her name
  • Does not gesture to communicate
  • Poor eye contact
  • Seeks your attention infrequently
  • Unusual body movements
  • Does not reach up when parents try to pick him or her up
  • Delays in motor development