Alexa’s PLAYC offers a dynamic and inclusive childcare program designed to support both typically developing children and autistic children.
At the heart of our program is a play-based, child-led approach, where children learn through engaging, hands-on play that fosters problem-solving, teamwork, confidence, self-advocacy, and creativity. By seamlessly integrating children with autism alongside their neurotypical peer, we create a vibrant, collaborative environment where all children benefit from mutual learning and social interaction.
Parker, who has autism, is thriving. Meet Parker.
Our full-day program for typically developing children provides them with exceptional learning opportunities,
while our half-day treatment program for autistic children offers tailored support to help them thrive.
The blend of children in the same classrooms encourages a natural, inclusive atmosphere, promoting both understanding and friendship.
To ensure a holistic approach to each child’s development, classrooms are staffed by a diverse team of preschool educators,
behavior technicians, and board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs), working together fluidly to provide individualized care and attention.
This collaborative model ensures that every child, regardless of their developmental background, receives the support they need to flourish
in a nurturing and supportive environment. Regular consultations with speech and occupational therapists further enhance the program,
addressing a range of developmental needs and enriching the overall learning experience.
Preschool Program for Typically Developing Children
Age Range: 18 months to Kindergarten enrollment
Key Features:
- Funded by: Tuition
- Subsidies Accepted: YMCA Childcare Resource Service, Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN), Riverside County of Education (RCOE)
- Structure: Full-day program
- San Diego Hours: 6:45 am – 5:30 pm
- Murrieta Hours: 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Limited part-time enrollment options are available in Murrieta only
Classroom Makeup:
- Toddler Classrooms: 8-9 typically developing children and 4 children receiving early intervention
- Preschool Classrooms: 11-16 typically developing children and 5-6 children with ASD
Key Skills for Success:
- Meets major developmental milestones
- Exhibits good communication skills
- Minimal behavior challenges
- Engages appropriately in play
How to Enroll: Fill out the interest list below:
Exit from Program: At the time the child enrolls in Kindergarten
Autism Treatment Toddler Program
Age Range: Toddlers (ages 18 months to 3 years)
Key Features:
- Funded by: Regional Center
- Structure: Half-day daily intensive program (8:30 am-12:00 pm or 2:00 pm-5:30 pm), with home visits twice a month and bi-monthly clinic meetings (clinic meetings in Murrieta only)
Classroom Makeup:
- 8-9 typically developing children and 4 children receiving early intervention
Key Skills for Success:
- Nonverbal skills of at least 15-18 months
- Minimal behavior challenges (e.g., aggression, self-injurious behaviors, emotional outbursts)
- Ability to engage in independent play for short periods (3-5 minutes)
- Participation in parallel play with other children
How to Enroll: Contact your Regional Center service coordinator to discuss enrollment
Exit from Program: Typically, the day before the child’s third birthday
Autism Treatment Preschool Program
Age Range: Preschoolers (over 3 years old)
Key Features:
- Funded by: Health Insurance
- Structure: Half-day daily intensive program (8:30 am-12:00 pm or 2:00 pm-5:30 pm), with monthly caregiver meetings
Classroom Makeup:
- 11-16 typically developing children and 5-6 children with ASD
Key Skills for Success:
- Nonverbal cognitive functioning of at least 2½-3 years
- Consistent use of spontaneous phrases for multiple functions (e.g., requesting, protesting, commenting)
- Previous involvement in treatment (e.g., speech therapy, behavior therapy)
- Minimal behavior challenges (e.g., aggression, self-injurious behaviors, emotional outbursts)
- Ability to engage in independent play for 5-10 minutes
- Interest in engaging other adults or children in play
How to Enroll: Fill out the interest list below:
Insurance Plans Accepted: Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, Optum, IEHP
- The insurance plans listed on this website are for information only and do not guarantee coverage. This list may not include all plans. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance company to confirm benefits, coverage, and costs before scheduling services.
- Please note that Medi-Cal coverage is not accepted at the San Diego location and that Alexa’s PLAYC cannot accept Tricare at either location.
Exit from Program: Typically, before transitioning to Kindergarten