Frequently Asked Questions
While ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) may work for some children, it is not the best fit for everyone. At Second Nature School, we take a different approach—one that prioritizes the individuality and well-being of each child. ABA focuses on modifying behavior through structured interventions, but it often overlooks the importance of understanding the child’s unique needs, interests, and emotional experiences. We believe that children thrive when they are respected, understood, and supported in ways that honor their neurodivergence. Our child-led, neuro-affirming approach ensures that every child receives the personalized support they need to flourish, free from the pressures of rigid behavior-focused methods.
Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it’s the first step toward understanding and supporting your child’s needs. At Second Nature, we offer a nurturing environment where we work closely with families to understand their child’s unique strengths and challenges. We will guide you through creating a plan that supports your child’s development, whether through therapy, individualized learning, or community engagement.
A child-led approach is beneficial for children who need a flexible, supportive environment that allows them to learn at their own pace. This approach encourages autonomy, self-expression, and a focus on the child’s interests and needs. If your child thrives in a space that celebrates their individuality and supports their unique way of learning, a child-led approach may be the best fit.
A neuro-affirming approach is one that recognizes and supports the diverse ways in which children think, learn, and experience the world. It values each child's unique neurodivergent traits and creates an environment that nurtures their strengths. This approach fosters acceptance, emotional well-being, and independence, helping children feel valued and supported as they grow.
Second Nature School differs from ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) programs by focusing on a child-led, neuro-affirming approach that respects and celebrates each child’s individuality. While ABA often focuses on behaviour modification through structured interventions, we prioritize understanding the child’s emotional, social, and developmental needs and building a strong therapeutic relationship. Our program is rooted in creating a nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow at their own pace, without pressure to conform to predetermined behaviors. We emphasize respect, autonomy, and inclusion, allowing children to thrive in a way that feels natural and empowering, rather than focusing solely on compliance or behavioural control.
Yes, at Second Nature, we tailor our program to meet the sensory and communication needs of each child. Whether your child experiences sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, or other unique needs, our team works closely with you to create a personalized plan that supports their development. We integrate strategies to enhance sensory regulation, promote effective communication, and foster independence.
A child-led approach supports skill-building by empowering children to take an active role in their learning. Rather than following a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum, we observe each child’s interests and strengths, using these to guide their development. This approach fosters a sense of autonomy, encouraging children to take initiative and build confidence in their abilities. By allowing children to explore and learn in a way that aligns with their natural curiosities, we promote independence and a lifelong love of learning.
At Second Nature School, we create a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels safe, seen, and valued. We focus on building strong, trusting relationships with each child, taking the time to understand their unique needs, strengths, and challenges. By getting to know them deeply, we are able to provide personalized support that helps them feel emotionally and physically secure. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to creating a space where children can explore, grow, and express themselves freely. We work closely with families to ensure that every child feels supported, loved, and safe in their school community.
At Second Nature School, we offer a variety of therapeutic services to support the individual needs of each child:
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Occupational Therapy (in partnership with On the Ball Pediatric) to develop essential skills for daily living, including fine motor abilities, sensory processing, and social integration.
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Speech Therapy to improve communication skills, focusing on speech clarity, language comprehension, social communication, and feeding/swallowing challenges.
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Individual Counseling to provide emotional and psychological support, helping children manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
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Parent Coaching to guide families in understanding their child’s needs and strengthening parenting strategies to support growth and well-being.
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Social Skills Training to help children build meaningful relationships, improve peer interactions, and develop confidence in social settings.
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Behavioral Support to assist with positive behavior development and strategies for managing challenges in a supportive, non-ABA environment.
These therapies are integrated into our child-led, nature-based approach, ensuring a personalized and holistic experience for each child, helping them grow and thrive in all areas of life.
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Second Nature School may be the right fit for your family if you are seeking a supportive, child-centered environment that values individuality and promotes a neuro-affirming approach. We embrace diverse learning styles and are committed to providing personalized support to help children thrive. If you are looking for a school that prioritizes emotional well-being, social connection, and the development of life skills in a nature-based setting, Second Nature could be the perfect match. We work closely with families to ensure that every child’s unique needs are met, fostering a sense of community, understanding, and growth.
At Second Nature, we embrace neurodivergence by recognizing and celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent children bring to the world. Our approach fosters an inclusive environment where every child is valued for who they are, and their individuality is celebrated. We create a supportive space that focuses on understanding each child’s needs and providing personalized strategies to help them thrive. Through a neuro-affirming approach, we ensure that neurodivergent children feel accepted, respected, and empowered to grow at their own pace, free from the pressure to conform to traditional expectations.
Yes, Second Nature welcomes children who may not fit into the traditional public school system. Our program is designed to support a wide range of learning styles and needs, including those of children who may need a more personalized, flexible approach to education. We focus on building a positive, inclusive environment where all children can thrive.
At Second Nature, we offer a range of family support services, including parent coaching, consultations, and ongoing communication. We understand that navigating your child’s needs can be challenging, so we are here to provide guidance, resources, and emotional support every step of the way. Our goal is to create a strong partnership between school and family to ensure the best outcomes for your child.