Pine Cone Prep School: A classroom built for the way your child learns.

A nurturing, half-day preschool program for young children with autism—carefully designed to strengthen routines, build confidence, and support the essential skills that help kids succeed in school and everyday life.

At Pine Cone Prep, your child doesn’t have to choose between therapy and early learning. Here, they’ll grow in both.
Student backpacks at Pine Cone Prep, our School Readiness Program

The Pine Cone Prep Difference

Pine Cone Prep is a half-day, play-based program that mirrors the structure of preschool—while offering the extra support many children need to truly thrive.

In our warm, therapy-focused setting, kids build confidence, connect with peers, and develop the foundational skills that set them up for success.

It’s school with support, not instead of it.

For many families, preschool feels like the natural next step. But if your child needs a bit more support to get there, Pine Cone Prep offers the same structure, joy, and opportunities for connection—with extra care and intention woven into every moment.

We learn through play, because that’s what childhood is.

Our days are full of music, movement, creativity, laughter, and friendship. It looks and feels like a typical preschool—because that’s exactly what children deserve.
Children engaging in therapeutic school together

You’re part of the team.

Through open communication and shared goals, we work hand-in-hand with you to ensure your child is supported, growing, and celebrated every step of the way.

Therapy isn’t something we pause for—it’s part of everything we do.

Whether it’s circle time, playtime, transitions, or snack, we embed your child’s goals into everyday routines—because that’s where meaningful learning truly begins.
“Families often feel like preschool is the next big milestone—but for some kids, it’s not about pushing forward, it’s about finding the right fit. Pine Cone Prep gives them everything preschool offers—routine, play, friendships—but with the support and care they truly need to thrive.”
— Liza Mazzocco-Bodner, BCBA
Senior Director of Clinical Quality

A Day at Pine Cone Prep

Every part of our day is intentional—structured, playful, and rooted in purpose. From cheerful morning greetings to calm moments in our reading corner, each activity is carefully designed to support social growth, communication, motor skills, and school readiness—all with the support of a compassionate therapy team by your child’s side.
 

Pine Cone Prep: School Readiness Program

9:00 am - 9:30 am

Circle Time
During Circle Time, students will participate in the following routines:

  • Hello Song
  • Attendance
  • Day of the Week
  • Month Song
  • Weather Song
  • Letter of the Day
9:30 am - 10:00 am
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Sensory Time
Engage with tactile material (Sensory bins, sensory wall)
10:00 am - 10:30 am
Group Gross Motor Activity
Each week, clients will engage in a group gross motor activity.
Ex. soccer, chase, or Simon Says
10:30 am - 11:00 am
Music and Movement
Students will engage in music and movement activities that promote social interaction and motor development. They will participate in group dancing and practice imitation skills through rhythm-based games and songs.
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Snack Time
Every client will engage in eating meals together.
11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Center Time
Students will participate in hands-on center activities that focus on numbers, letters, and shapes. These tasks will also support early cognitive skills such as matching, sorting, and categorizing, using tools like file folder games and manipulatives.
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Play Time: Imaginative Play
Children will participate in imaginative play activities such as dressing up and role-playing grocery shopping. These experiences support social-emotional development, language skills, and cognitive growth by encouraging creativity, cooperation, and symbolic thinking.
12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
Library Time
Each child will select a dot, find a spot to sit, and enjoy reading a book independently or with a partner.
Two children engaging in therapeutic play as part of Pine Cone Prep School

What is Pine Cone Prep?

A school readiness program designed for children with autism, where ABA, speech, and occupational therapy come together in a preschool-style setting.

At Pine Cone Prep, your child gains confidence, builds communication skills, and practices classroom routines through play-based learning, small groups, and individualized support. It’s therapy woven into the school day—not added on top.

  • ABA, speech, and OT integrated into daily routines
  • Led by a team who understands autism and early childhood
  • Small class sizes with low therapist-to-child ratios
  • Goals focused on social skills, independence, and IEP readiness

Who is Pine Cone Prep for?

Pine Cone Prep is designed for children ages 2–6 with an autism diagnosis who are eager to learn—but need more support than a typical preschool can offer.

Pine Cone Prep is a great fit for children who:

  • Have an autism diagnosis
  • Are transitioning out of Early Intervention
  • Need extra help with communication, transitions, or peer play
  • Struggle in large or overstimulating classrooms
  • Are working toward kindergarten or IEP goals
  • Benefit from a consistent, supportive, small-group environment
Student backpacks at Pine Cone Prep, our School Readiness Program

What makes our school program different?

Pine Cone Prep gives your child the same joy, growth, and community as preschool—just with more care, more support, and a team who truly gets them.
 
Pine Cone Therapies in Texas logo

Traditional Programs

Environment
Small, calming classrooms designed for the sensory needs of neurodivergent children.

Tools like visual schedules, sensory toys, positive reinforcement, and therapeutic equipment are used throughout the day.
Classroom with up to 25 children at a time.

Typical setup may contribute to sensory overload, including bright lights and colors, loud noises, and a crowded space.
Support
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Your child’s own RBT with them all day in a 1:1 therapist to client ratio.

Our clinical staff are experienced with autism, sensory sensitivities, and motor and speech development needs.
1 teacher + 1 assistant for many students.

May be able to provide the support needed for neurodivergent children depending on each teacher’s knowledge and experience.
Team Expertise
Therapists trained in autism, sensory & speech needs
May vary by teacher and school
Circle Time
Therapist-supported, sensory-friendly group time
Group-led, fast-paced
Learning Approach
Goals personalized to your child’s needs
Standard curriculum, limited flexibility
Communication Skills
Dedicated support for speech, communication & social
General instruction on letters, raising hands, etc.
Free Play
Sensory gym + guided peer play with therapist support
Often overstimulating, limited sensory supports

Interested in Pine Cone Prep School?

Reach out today to schedule a tour, ask questions, or learn more about how we can support your child’s growth.

Small group of children playing together with support from RBT at Blossom Prep

Testimonials

Why we do what we do.
Success looks different for every child...But we bet we have a story that matches your child's needs. Like James, who started with us as non-verbal and lacking the ability to initiate and maintain social interactions. Today, he can speak complete sentences, clearly state his needs, and navigate social interactions with his friends!

Contact us to get started

  • 1
    Submit an inquiry form
    Completing this secure form helps us understand how we can serve you.
  • 2
    We'll reach out to you!
    One of our dedicated team members will connect with you to discuss services, your insurance benefits, and your family’s needs.
  • 3
    Paperwork & insurance
    We'll review and confirm your insurance benefits, and we'll work with you to gather additional paperwork required.
  • 4
    Treatment personalization
    We'll schedule an assessment date for your child with one of our clinicians. This assessment will serve as the basis for your child’s personalized treatment plan. After, we'll meet to discuss recommendations and your child’s treatment plan and start date.
  • 5
    Start making progress!
    We will greet and welcome your child to our warm and supportive environment where our staff will provide 1-on-1 care to meet our treatment goals.