Infants and Toddlers Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten Kindergarten to 3rd grade

Middle and High School College Transition Program Before and after-school Extended Care

Summer Camps and Enrichment Inclusion Arts & Technology

Summer Camps and Enrichment UCP's Summer Enrichment Programs are available for children with and without disabilities ages birth through fifth grade. Free VPK is offered at all six campuses as well for children who meet eligibility requirements and are entering kindergarten in Fall 2012. Additional enrichment programs are available including Shakespeare with Heart in conjunction with the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre. Enrollment for summer is open to current families until the end of February. Familes currently enrolled and new families can now register for UCP's summer programs. UCP Summer Connections Summer Connections helps kids of all ages and abilities make memories that last a lifetime while building on skills learned through the school year. Ages: 2 – 5 years old at the following campuses: downtown Orlando, Kissimmee, Lake Mary, Pine Hills, Winter Garden 2 years to fourth grade at East Orlando/Bailes Campus Dates: Choose from three different three-week sessions between June 11 and August 10* at campuses in Orange and Osceola Countiesand between June 4 and August 3*  at UCP's Lake Mary Campus Rates based on each three-week sessions: Pine Hills: $315 per three-week session ($105 weekly) Downtown Orlando, Winter Garden, Kissimmee and Lake Mary: $360 per three-week session( $120 weekly) East Orlando/Bailes Campus: $390 per three-week session ($130 weekly). FREE Summer VPK For children with and without disabilities, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) develops the academic readiness skills that prepare children for a successful year of kindergarten, while having fun! Ages: Born between 9/2/2006 and 9/1/2007 and has not participated in a previous VPK program* Dates: June 12 – August 7* (Orange and Osceola Campuses: Downtown Orlando, Winter Garden, Kissimmee and Lake Mary) June 5 – August 1* (Seminole/Lake Mary Campus) Rates: Free for eligible children; other eligibility requirements apply;    UCP Summer Enrichment For students with disabilities who may need additional assistance with daily living skills and includes drama, music, arts and crafts, computers, sports and more. Grades: kindergarten – fifth grade Dates: June 11 – August 10 Rates: $150 per week; downtown Orlando* Shakespeare With Heart Led by professional Shakespearean directors, this fully-inclusive drama program is for students of all abilities culminating with a Shakespearean show. Grades: sixth – 12th grade Dates: July 9 – 20, 9 a.m. – noon, weekdays Rates: $180 per session at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater Click here to see a video about Shakespeare with Heart Click here to register for Shakespeare with Heart   Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapy Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapy available during camp or on an outpatient basis. Medicaid, commercial insurance and private/prompt pay options available. Private/prompt rate is $45 per 30 minute session.  *Funded in part by Harper Family Charitable Foundation, Inc. Programs excluding Shakespeare with Heart are 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Before/after-school programs available for an additional fee. Program fees, dates and times may vary at individual campuses. Infant and toddler childcare programs also available.     How to Register New Students Click here and download the Initial Inquiry Form and return it in one of the following ways to UCP's Centralized Admissions Department: Scan and Email to referrals@ucpcfl.org Fax to: (407) 480-4805 Mail to: Admissions Department, Att: Maria Caban, 1200 West Colonial Drive, Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32804 For questions, please call Admissions at (407) 852-3300 ext. 1   Existing Students Download the contract for the campus you are interested in having your child attend below. Complete the form and contact the Campus Business Manager at your selected campus to schedule an appointment. Click here for a complete list of contact information for UCP's Campus Business Managers.   Orange County: Downtown Orlando Summer Connections and VPK Contract Click here to download Downtown Orlando Summer Enrichment (Kindergarten – fifth grade for children with disabilities) Click here to download Pine Hills Summer Connections and VPK Contract Click here to download Winter Garden Summer Connections and VPK Contract Click here to download Osceola County: Kissimmee Summer Connections and VPK Contract Click here to download Seminole County Lake Mary Summer Connections and VPK Contract  Click here to download   For additional campuses or information, please call UCP's Admissions Department at (407) 852-3300, ext 1 or email referrals@ucpcfl.org.     Infants & Toddlers Infants Picture your little angel in a warm, comforting environment where our teachers love babies and understand how to help develop their self-esteem and sense of security.  At UCP, you will find that and more. We recognize how babies take everything in with each of their senses.  That is why we have one staff member to only four babies. It is our goal to offer your growing baby group and individual playtime that engages all their senses. Whether its buggy rides to the nature trail, swinging on the playground or sitting quietly on the lap of a teacher who knows how important comfort is to your child, UCP offers opportunities for learning and growing in even the simplest activities. Young infants are encouraged to coo and vocalize, teething on appropriate toys, roll over, sit with support progressing towards sitting alone, tracking objects and responding to sounds, following a human face, respond to adult-child interaction by vocalizing, smiling and turning toward caregivers, grasping and releasing objects, kicking or swatting at a mobile to activate sounds or lights, tipping their bottle as the level of milk drops and exploring books.  Older infants are encouraged to crawl and pull-up on child size tables and chairs, manipulate objects (put beads in a box), move with music, engaging in back and forth play with adults, begin to imitate words and word sounds, decrease their dependence on pacifiers and bottles and learn to enjoy healthy snacks. » CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MORE INFANT INFORMATION NOW Toddlers Toddlers are busy exploring the world around them, just wanting to get up and go. We recognize your child’s natural instinct to discover how the great big world works. That is why UCP’s toddler programs are lead by a group of dynamic, energetic and qualified teachers who offer plenty of indoor and outdoor opportunities to explore. Your child will pretend to be a dinosaur, create a masterpiece in art, ride a tricycle on the playground and go on adventures in nature.  Even with all their new-found independence, parents can rest assured knowing that a caring, loving hand is there to guide them every step of the way. Young toddlers need room to move and explore.  They are encouraged to develop more precise eye-hand coordination by working with toys that require turning knobs, flipping switches, and pushing buttons, turning pages in a book, imitating the hand motions of finger-plays and songs and beginning to name primary colors.  Older toddlers are encouraged to recognize the names of familiar objects and people, begin using language to communicate, actively explore their environment, participate in activities of daily living by washing and drying their hands, getting a book for the teacher to read and putting toys away. » CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MORE TODDLER INFORMATION NOW     Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten In their early years, children explore the world around them by using all their senses (touching, tasting, listening, smelling, and looking). In using real materials such as blocks and trying out their ideas, children learn about sizes, shapes, and colors, and they notice relationships between things. In time, they learn to use one object to stand for another. This is the beginning of symbolic thinking. For example, they might pretend a stick is an airplane or a block is a hamburger. These early symbols – the stick and the block – are similar in shape to the objects they represent. Gradually children become more and more able to use abstract symbols like words to describe their thoughts and feelings. They learn to "read" pictures which are symbols of real people, places and things. This exciting development in symbolic thinking takes place during the pre-school years as children play. Play provides the foundation for academic or "school" learning. It is the preparation children need before they learn highly abstract symbols such as letters (which are symbols for sounds) and numbers (which are symbols for number concepts). Play enables us to achieve the key goals of our early childhood curriculum. Play is the work of young children. The most important goal of our Pre-School and PreK program is to help children become enthusiastic learners. This means encouraging children to be active and creative explorers who are not afraid to try out their ideas and to think their own thoughts. Our goal is to help children become independent, self-confident, inquisitive learners. We are teaching them how to learn, not just in preschool, but also all through their lives. We are allowing them to learn at their own pace and in the ways that are best for them. We are giving them good habits and attitudes, particularly a positive sense of themselves, which will make a difference throughout their lives. The activities we plan for children, the way we organize the environment, select toys and materials, plan the daily schedule, and talk with children, are all designed to accomplish the goals of our curriculum and give your child a successful start in school. » CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MORE PRE-SCHOOL & PRE-K INFORMATION NOW     Kindergarten to 3rd grade UCP of Central Florida's Elementary Charter Schools were developed so children of all abilities can learn together. Our philosophy is that each child has unique strengths, and all children should be given equal opportunities to serve as leaders. Our schools places a strong emphasis on developing effective communication, active cooperation, thoughtful problem solving, individual and group initiative, pride in uniqueness, development of talent, and embracing differences. The curriculum was developed from theories on brain research, multiple intelligences and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). We provide comprehensive education and use an integrative, hands-on approach to learning. Therefore, children develop skills in all academic, social and emotional areas throughout their day. Two elements that are central and unique to our program are the integration of the arts and technology. By integrating these two resources into daily and weekly lessons, we are able to offer students opportunities to explore and expand upon new skills and abilities. UCP Elementary Charter Schools use a co-teacher model in the majority of its elementary school classrooms. This model incorporates a general education and Exceptional Education teacher teaches together in partnership. » CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MORE KINDERGARTEN TO 3RD GRADE INFORMATION NOW     Middle and High School        For more information call (407) 852-3300   College Transition Program For more information call (407) 852-3300     Before and After-school Extended Care Because we know that your child's day doesn't always begin and end in a school day.  At UCP, we understand your child’s day doesn’t always begin and end with the school day. That is why we offer before and after-school enrichment programs that provide a safe, fun and enriching environment incorporating social time, arts and crafts, outdoor play and just plain fun.  Homework time is provided for students in kindergarten and above. Each UCP campus has options for before and after-school enrichment programs as well as days when Charter School is not in session (camp days).  UCP offers: Before School (7/7:30am – 8:30am) After School (2:30pm – 5:30pm/6pm – depending on the campus) Full Day “Camp Days” – when school is closed – 7/7:30am – 5:30pm/6pm » CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MORE BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL EXTENDED CARE INFORMATION NOW      Inclusion Inclusion means that children of all abilities learn and grow together. Every student can learn, just not on the same day, or the same way. – George Evans Over the past twenty-five years, there has been significant progress for people with disabilities. Institutionalization has been largely eliminated and all children have the right to attend school. However, as a society, we have not fully embraced the concept that people with disabilities should be side by side with others in school, in jobs and in social settings. UCP of Central Florida is creating a new kind of community; one where everyone can learn and play together. One where a person’s disability isn’t necessarily a relevant characteristic and everyone appreciates and values all kinds of diversity. We believe that segregation in childhood ensures segregation in adulthood and creates permanent barriers. We acknowledge that all individuals, those with and without disabilities, have gifts and talents that benefit everyone. Within our community, there are limited academic options for children with and without disabilities to truly learn together. So, few children benefit from the full potential of our real communities. Over the last decade, UCP has opened its doors to children without disabilities and embraced this education model and the results have been wonderful. Further, with the opening of UCP's new East Orange/Bailes Campus, there is now a place that fulfills the needs of our students as well as becoming an international example for others to learn how inclusion can be successfully implemented.  There is evidence based research that supports children with and without disabilities achieve the same or better academic outcomes when part of an inclusive classroom. Studies have shown that children without disabilities, when placed in a classroom with their peers with disabilities, score higher on problem solving skills and empathy than those students who are not exposed to such a diverse environments.     The children without disabilities today are the employers and business managers of tomorrow. With the foundation we are laying today, won’t it be wonderful that inclusion will not even be noteworthy because it’s happening everywhere anyway.     Arts & Technology We inspire our students with patience, understanding, and inclusion. Arts Integration: At UCP of Central Florida, the visual and performing arts are integrated into our daily lesson plans. They will not be treated as discrete subject areas, but rather used as a medium for delivering instruction. Ways in which the arts may be utilized include: A variety of visual and performing art experiences will be used to deliver learning opportunities and to demonstrate skills and knowledge. Local arts organizations will provide both consultation in developing curriculum and resources. They will assist with this by offering visiting artists, volunteers, program support, etc. Throughout the school year, students will hold assemblies and take field trips to age appropriate performances, museums, displays etc. in support of their lessons and activities. Technology: The use of technology is important in that it helps people communicate and learn through various mediums. In an effort to optimize instruction and learning,UCP integrates various forms of technology throughout the school and enrichment programs. Depending on which campus you select for your child, some of the technology elements might included: Individual netbooks for students in kindergarten through second grade at UCP’s East Orange/Bailes Campus Computers, all-in-one printers and digital cameras Plasma TV’s outfitted with touch panel overlays (similar to a Smart Board) E-Instruction mobi teacher pad (i.e. wireless tablet), software and remote controls for interactive use by our professional staff and children Wi-Fi networking through the facility Ceiling mounted data projector/document/security cameras with secured on- and off-site video streaming capability Audio systems with speakers Safari Montgage server content Virtual reality software Need other technology elements that are in the other campuses

 

   

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School Year Programs

UCP of Central Florida offers support, education and therapy helping children ages birth to 21 achieve their optimal potential. Physical, speech and occupation therapy is also offered during the school day and/or outpatient therapy and rehabilitative services. UCP’s school and therapy programs are geared toward children with and without disabilities. UCP’s education and therapy teams collaborate closely with physicians and other professionals to provide each child with a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach where families are an essential part of the team.

As a tuition-free public charter school, UCP offers school options for children with and without disabilities from birth to fourth grade and also offers a middle, high school and college transition program for students with disabilities. Programs vary depending on the location. In addition to school programs, UCP's Physical Therapy focuses on preserving, developing and restoring physical function. Speech Therapy develops verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as well remediation of oral-motor and feeding challenges. Occupational Therapy aims to improve fine motor, self-help, sensory motor and visual perceptual skills. All three disciplines utilize diverse approaches, techniques, devices, physical agents and modalities to help each child reach their individual goals.

Services are provided at UCP’s six campuses as part of their in-house educational program, as well as on-site outpatient therapy, summer enrichment and services at local childcare facilities. Many education programs are free for eligible children. Medicaid, commercial insurances and private pay are acceptable for therapy.

Education
Therapy
Support

UCP believes that a basic principle of sound relations provides a clear and open channel for the expression of grievances by clients/parents/guardians. You should attempt to resolve all concerns at the lowest possible level (with the teacher, therapist, or the school administrator).
If a concern has not been resolved satisfactorily, the client/parent/guardian should express their complaint to the Sr. Director of Operations. If, within 72 hours, no action has been taken or the action taken is not satisfactory, the complaint should be submitted, in writing, to the CEO. The CEO will review the complaint and attempt to resolve the issue within 10 days. If a satisfactory solution has not been found the client/parent/guardian may make an appointment to meet with the CEO and the Chairman of the Board of Directors who will arbitrate the matter and make the final decision.

 

About Therapy Physical Therapy Speech Therapy

Occupational Therapy Payment Providers

About Therapy UCP of Central Florida focuses on helping children ages birth to 21 achieve their optimal functionality according to their abilities. Many of the children who come to UCP begin therapy unable to walk, talk, button their clothes or even feed themselves. After a lot of hard work, and with the guidance of their therapists, many children are able to master these tasks and more. Our team of physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and speech language associates provide personalized activities that optimize each child's independence according to their individual abilities. Services are provided at UCP’s six campuses as part of our in-house educational program, as well as on-site before and after school therapy, outpatient therapy, and summer therapy. UCP also provides therapy services at local child care facilities and other community centers. Designed to help each child reach their full potential, UCP’s therapy program is geared toward children with all kinds of disabilities and delays including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Down’s syndrome, autism, speech and language delays, and developmental delays among many others. UCP therapy providers closely collaborate with our education team, physicians and other professionals providing each child and with a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach where families are an essential part of the team. General Therapy Services Available at UCP include: Developmental Screenings Hearing Screenings Evaluations/Re-evaluations Direct OT/PT/ST Treatments Wheelchair Clinics (Fitting and Customization) Serial Casting and Post Casting Maintenance/Intervention Upper/Lower Extremity Splinting Augmentative/Alternative Communication Devices’ Assessments OT/PT/ST Home Assessments Parent Education (i.e., Hanen Training, Individualized Home Programs) Appointments are available Monday through Friday at all six UCP locations including downtown Orlando, East Orlando near UCF, Kissimmee, Lake Mary, Pine Hills and Winter Garden.     Physical Therapy UCP’s Physical Therapy program focuses on preserving, developing, and restoring physical function. Our physical therapy providers incorporate the use of diverse approaches, techniques, devices, physical agents and modalities to help each child reach their individual goals. The following is a list of services provided under our physical therapy program: Screenings and Evaluations/Re-evaluations Therapeutic Handling /Positioning Lower Extremity Serial Casting Lower Extremity Splinting- Fabrication/ Adaptation Lower Extremity Assistive Device Training Ambulation/Gait Training Balance /Equilibrium/Coordination Ex. Program Strength/Endurance /Flexibility Ex. Program Kinesiotaping Motor Planning Motor Coordination Neurodevelopmental Treatment Seating /Wheelchair Clinic Postural Training Range of Motion Maintenance / Restoration Equipment Recommendation Carnio-Sacral Myofascial Release Learning Use of LE Prosthetics Home Assessment     Speech Therapy UCP’s speech therapy program focuses on developing verbal and non- verbal communication skills and on remediation of oral-motor and feeding challenges. Our  providers incorporate a variety of treatment techniques, approaches, and devices to facilitate the attainment of each child’s goals. The following is a list of services provided under our speech therapy program: Screenings and  Evaluations/Re-evaluations Articulation Therapy Voice Therapy Language Disorder/Language Dominance Therapy Oral-Motor Therapy Fluency Therapy Feeding /Swallowing Therapy Auditory Processing Therapy Cognitive Therapy Apraxia of Speech Therapy Assistive Technology/Augmentative Communication Therapy Dysphasia Therapy Cleft Lip/Palate Therapy Cochlear Implants Therapy Kinesiotaping Aural Rehab Therapy Home Assessment     Occupational Therapy UCP’s occupational program focuses on developing fine motor, self-help, sensory motor, and visual perceptual skills. Our providers incorporate the use of diverse treatment approaches, techniques, and devices to reach each child’s goals. The following is a list of services provided under our occupational program: Screenings and Evaluations/Re-evaluations Fine Motor Skills Therapy Therapeutic Listening Social Skills Training Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s) Training Upper Extremity Splinting Fabrication/ Adaptation Assistive Technology: Upper Extremity Assistive Device Training Sensory Integration/Processing Program Community Integration: Functioning in Community Settings Neurodevelopmental Treatment Kinesiotaping Cranio-Sacral Myofascial Release Psychosocial: Working on the Development of Self-Concept and Self-Expression Pre-Writing and Writing Skills Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Therapy Cognitive Attention Span/Problem Solving Learning the Use of UE Prosthetics Proper Tool & Toy Use Developmental Screening Services In addition to services for children with special needs UCP offers developmental screenings for typical children from birth to 6 years old. The screenings are provided with the ultimate goal to assess the children in basic performance areas and identify tools for social and academic optimization according to their age.       Methods of Payment UCP works closely with families to assist in securing funding for therapy services. Here are some payment options available at UCP of Central Florida. Medicaid Commercial Insurances Early Steps Private Pay Public Schools in Orange, Osceola and Seminole as part of UCP’s Charter School Agreement Click here for additional information on how to enroll a child in UCP’s Therapy Program.     Therapy Providers UCP has an accomplished and highly skilled group of state licensed physical and occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and speech language associates committed to providing an excellent level of care to all of our children and families.

Support

A shoulder to lean on… A friend to confide in… We're here for you at every stage.

When parents first learn that their child has a developmental delay or disability, most are unsure of what to do or where to turn. They worry that their child won't be able to walk, talk, or experience some of life’s simplest activities. At UCP of Central Florida, we are able to calm their fears and provide answers to many of their questions.

Advocacy, Information and Referrals

UCP’s team members offer families support in being an advocate for their children. Navigating the many paths on which to travel with a special needs  child can be overwhelming, and our team is dedicated to helping parents find their way.

Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling

Whether it's talking with mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, or sister and brother, we offer families compassion and understanding. From individual sessions to group meetings for couples or families, our licensed metal health counselor talks with clients in various settings, helping them ease the mental pressures in a positive manner and feel comfortable with their situation.

Counseling services are offered by appointment only and are free through a grant provided by Orange County Citizens' Commission for Children. To schedule an appointment, contact Ellie Hauser at (407) 852-3300 or ehauser@ucpcfl.org.

Supportive Counseling Program

Our Supportive Counseling Program focuses on the growth and well-being of everyone affected by a disability including the child, their siblings, friends, and family. By educating everyone involved and equipping them with the proper tools, we are working to maximize the child's level of success.

Family Support and Training Meetings

When it comes to raising a child, parents don’t always know what to do or how to do it effectively. Throughout the year, UCP offers free, educational support meetings and trainings to eliminate some of these frustrations. Topics include, but are not limited to, behavior training, potty training, encouraging language, and choosing age appropriate toys for your child. Please check our calendar of events for upcoming meetings and trainings.

Family Fun Nights and Festivals

Families often find there are a limited number of places where they have the opportunity to meet and interact with others whose experiences are similar to theirs. Several times throughout the year, our campuses host family fun nights and festivals for its students and families. These events are a great way to meet and mingle with other families at UCP and in our community. Family Fun Nights are open to everyone and often include light food, games and activities for the children. (i.e. shows, reading, music, etc.). Please check our calendar of events for upcoming family fun nights and festivals.

For more information on UCP's Support Programs, call 407-852-3300.

Resources

Fact Sheets:

Autism: » Click here to download PDF
Cerebral Palsy: » Click here to download PDF
Developmental Delay: » Click here to download PDF
Down Syndrome: » Click here to download PDF
Spina Bifida: » Click here to download PDF

Disabilities: Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Hearing Loss, Visual Impairments, Speech Disorders:

UCP National
(800) 872-5827
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is a leading service provider and advocate for children and adults with disabilities.

My Child Without Limits
MyChildWithoutLimits.org is an authoritative early intervention resource for families of young children ages 0-5 with developmental delays or disabilities, and professionals looking for a single, trusted, aggregate source of information that relates to their needs and interests.

Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Center for Autism & Related Disabilities
(407)823-6011
CARD serves both children and adults of all levels of intellectual functioning who have autism, pervasive developmental disorders, autistic-like disabilities, dual sensory impairments, or sensory impairments with other disabling conditions. Services include technical assistance and consultation, professional training programs and public education activities.

Autism Society of Greater Orlando
(407) 855-0235
ASGO provides individuals and families affected by autism a network of opportunities to become fully accepted by the community through family support, education, advocacy and public awareness.

National Autism Association
(877) 622-2884
The National Autism Association educates and empowers families affected by autism and other neurological disorders, while advocating on behalf of those who cannot fight for their own rights.

National Down Syndrome Society
(800)-221-4602
The National Down Syndrome Society benefits people with Down syndrome and their families through national leadership in education, research and advocacy

Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida
(407) 478-5621
http://www.dsacf.org/
The Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida is a voice for individuals with Down syndrome in Central Florida, and their families. We offer hope, encouragement and acceptance through advocacy, education and awareness so that each may realize their potential as members of our community

American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine
(414)-918-3014                                                                                 http://www.aacpdm.org/                                                                                                  
The AACPDM is the global leader in the multidisciplinary scientific education of health professionals and researchers dedicated to the well-being of people with cerebral palsy and childhood-onset disabilities

Developmental Delay Resources (DDR)
(800)-497-0944
http://www.devdelay.org/
DDR is dedicated to meeting the needs of children with developmental delays in sensory, motor, language, social, and emotion  professionals who support children with special needs.

Spina Bifida Association
(800)-621-3141
http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org
The Spina Bifida Association (SBA) serves adults and children who live with the challenges of Spina Bifida. SBA has a presence in more than 125 communities nationwide and touches thousands of people each year.

Florida Special Olympics
http://www.specialolympicsflorida.org/
Special Olympics Florida provides year-round sports training and competition children and adults with intellectual disabilities, at no cost to the athlete or their caregiver, as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem and the life skills necessary to be productive, respected and contributing members of their communities.

First Signs
(978) 346-4380
http://www.firstsigns.org/index.html
First Signs, Inc. is a national non-profit organization dedicated to
educating parents and professionals about the early warning signs of
autism and related disorders.

Florida Abuse Hotline
800-962-2873
To report, child, adult or elder abuse or exploitation  

Government Services:     

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
(877) 696-6775
http://www.hhs.gov/
HHS is the U.S. government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves.

U.S. Social Security Administration
(800)-772-1213
http://www.ssa.gov/
The Social Security Administration website provides information on Social Security's services and explains eligibility and coverage.

Center for Medicaid Services
http://www.cms.gov/home/medicaid.asp
CMS' website provides information on Medicaid and explains enrollment, eligibility and coverage.

Department of Children and Families
Food stamps, Medicaid, temporary financial assistance, developmental disabilities services
www.dcf.state.fl.us/districts/d7
407-317-7000 Orlando 
407-330-6900 Sanford
407-245-1709 Kissimmee 
321-690-3710 Cocoa

Legal Aid
Orange County – 407-841-8310
Seminole County – 407-834-1660

Florida Kid Care
www.floridakidcare.org
888-540-5437
Low cost health insurance for children of Florida based on income

Local Community-based Services: Medical, Living, & Miscellaneous:

Bright Feats of Central Florida
(407) 461-4847
www.orlando.brightfeats.com
Bright Feats provides information about local community services offers support to families and helps local businesses convey what they have to offer to the special needs community.

Autism License Plate
http://autismlicenseplate.com
Purchase your autism license plate today and help support services and awareness of autism in Florida.

Children Home Society
www.chsfl.org
321-397-3000
Counseling, emergency shelter, crisis nursery, parenting programs

Division of Vocational Rehab
407-846-5260
Range of services for disabled adults 16+  

Shepherds Hope Inc       
www.shepherdshope.org
(407) 909-0603
Offers free health care services to individuals who are currently employed with no health insurance or government assistance. 

Healing the Children
www.youcanheal.org
407-877-9311
Pediatric medical/surgical care for children in uninsured families

Catholic Charities of Central Florida
1819 N. Semoran Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32807
Phone: 407-658-1818
Fax: 407-282-2891
Toll Free: 888-658-2828
www.cflcc.org or www.catholiccharitiesusa.org
Catholic Charities USA provides strong leadership and support to enhance the work of local agencies in their efforts to reduce poverty, support families, and empower communities.

CBC of Seminole County
117 East Lake Mary Boulevard
Sanford, FL 32773
Phone: 407-333-8256
Fax: 407-333-8269
www.cbcseminole.org
Description to follow.

Devereux Florida
5850 T. G. Lee Blvd., Suite 400
Orlando, Florida 32822 
(800) 338-3738 – 
(407) 362-9210
www.devereux.org
Devereux is a leading nonprofit behavioral health organization that supports many of the most underserved and vulnerable members of our communities.

Easter Seals Florida & Easter Seals Camp Challenge
2010 Mizell Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32792
407-629-7881
http://fl.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=FLDR_homepage
Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities.
http://fl.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=FLDR_CampChallenge
Easter Seals Camp Challenge's mission is to provide safe, fun
and fair recreational activities for children and adults with cognitive
and physical disabilities in an outdoor environment.

Epilepsy Association of Central Florida
Orlando: 109 North Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811
407-422-1416 
1-866-864-1416
www.epilepsy-cf.org
Dedicated to serving persons with epilepsy, the Epilepsy Association of Central Florida (EACF) is a 100% local not-for-profit community based organization helping those affected by the nation's number one neurological disorder, epilepsy. This site provides you with valuable information on epilepsy, our services, and current events.

Nathaniel’s Hope & Buddy Breaks
Phone: 407-857-8224
www.nathanielshope.org
Nathaniel’s Hope is dedicated to sharing hope with kids with special needs and their families.
http://www.nathanielshope.org/events-and-programs/buddy-break/
Buddy Break is a FREE kids/respite program designed to give caregivers of kids with special needs (VIP kids) a break from their ongoing care-giving responsibilities for three hours. Each VIP kid at Buddy Break is paired up with a Buddy friend for one-on-one attention as everyone has fun playing games, hearing and seeing great children’s stories, videos, music and more while giving the caregivers a much needed break! Siblings have fun too!

Children’s Medical Services
7000 Lake Ellenor Dr.
Orlando, FL 32809
(407) 858-5555
1-800-226-6530
Counties: Orange, Osceola, Seminole
www.cms-kids.com
Is a collection of programs for children with special needs. Each one of our programs and services are family-centered and designed to help children with a variety of conditions and needs.

Howard Phillips Center
6601 W. Michigan Street
Orlando, FL 32805
407-317-7430
http://www.orlandohealth.com/arnoldpalmerhospital/HowardPhillipsCenter/HowardPhilpsCenter.aspx?pid=2656
The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families provides dignity and healing for children, families and individuals who face overwhelming challenges like child abuse, sexual trauma, developmental disabilities, and lack of access to medical care

Preschool Diagnostic Intervention Services
434 North Tampa Avenue
Orlando, FL 32805
(407)317-3503
https://www.ocps.net/cs/ese/support/ei/Pages/default.aspx
Preschool Diagnostic Intervention Services (PDIS) assists families of children ages 3-5 in the identification of learning delays and disabilities through screening and evaluation, development of an Individualized Educational Plan, and referral to programs and services. Support to families and school staff is provided through training, professional development and consultation.

Special Olympics Florida
(352) 243-9536
http://www.specialolympicsflorida.org/
Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people eight years of age and older with intellectual disabilities. The organization who wish to participate, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

Beta Center
(407) 277-1942
http://www.betacenter.org/
BETA Center offers children and parents the knowledge and support needed for strong and healthy families; with a focus on teen moms and at-risk families. Parents learn about prenatal attachment, baby brain development, child development, infant mental health, school readiness and adolescence.

Florida Respite Coalition
http://www.floridarespite.org/Default.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1
The Florida Respite Coalition (FRC) is a statewide system of Lifespan Respite Care Networks that provides families and caregivers with a single point of entry within their communities to access support and information for respite care services.

Center for Independent Living
(407) 623-1070
http://www.cilorlando.org/
The Center for Independent Living in Central Florida, Inc. (CIL) helps people with disabilities achieve their self-determined goals for independent living. CIL's philosophy is based on peer role models: people with disabilities empowering people with disabilities and their families on the road to independence.

Quest, Inc.
407-218-4300
http://www.questinc.org/
Quest inspires and empowers Central Floridians with disabilities by offering choices and opportunities to learn, live, work and play. Through Quest's comprehensive family of services, children and adults imagine and achieve their full capabilities

United Way Information & Referral
(352) 331-2800
Need new Link
211 provides residents in Central Florida information and resources on health and human services issues such as food, housing assistance, clothing, youth programs, substance abuse treatment, volunteering, and hundreds of other resources. The service is free, confidential, multi-lingual, and available 24 hours a day.

Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resource System
(407) 317-3660
http://www.fdlrs.com/
The Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) provides diagnostic and instructional support services to district exceptional student education programs and families of students with exceptionalities statewide

Intervention Services
(407) 331-8002
http://interventionservices.com/
Intervention Services provides quality and professional treatment for individuals with mental health and behavior issues. Programs and services are designed to treat both individuals and families helping them achieve an improved quality of life.

Seminole County Family Assistance Services
http://rightservicefl.org/seminole/services/Family%20Assistance
Lists opportunities for Family Services and Assistance in Seminole County.

Hospitals:

Shriners Hospital for Children
800-255-1916
Tampa Florida
Specializing in orthopedics up to 18 yrs.

Florida Hospital Orlando
601 East Rollins St., Orlando, FL
407-303-2800
www.floridahospital.com

Orlando Regional Medical Center
24 Sturteveant St., Orlando, FL
321-841-5111
www.orlandohealth.com

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children
1414 Kuhl Ave., Orlando, FL
407-650-3800
www.orlandohealth.com

Dr. P Phillips Hospital
9400 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando, FL
407-351-8500
www.orlandohealth.com

Winter Park Memorial Hospital
N Lakemont Ave., Winter Park, FL
407-646-7000
www.winterparkhospital.com/

UCP of Central Florida neither supports or endoreses any of the organizations listed on this page. The listing is just intended to offer families options and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs: Education:

What is a state-funded charter school?

UCP is a state funded charter school allowing access of its program to children of all economic backgrounds.  As a tuition free public charter school, UCP is governed by a board of directors to ensure that the charter contract is upheld and that funds received will be directly used to provide an individualized program for our students. 

How many children are enrolled in UCP of Central Florida's schools?

In the 2011 -2012 school year, UCP’s six campuses enrolled approximately 800 children ages 6 weeks to 21.

What are UCP's Education Programs?

• Early intervention in the classroom and at home for children ages birth to 3.
• Infants, toddler, preschool and VPK inclusion programs for children ages 3 – 4.
• Kindergarten through 3rd grade inclusion elementary school programs for children ages 5 to 7.
• Middle and high school programs for children with special needs.
• College Transition Program for young adults with special needs who have received a special high school diploma and are ages 18 – 21.

Who might benefit from UCP's education programs and classroom settings?

• Children with special needs including: cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, visual or hearing impairments, developmental and learning disabilities, seizure disorders, children with spinal cord injuries, or speech disorders or delays.
• Children without disabilities whose parents or caregivers are interested in an inclusive learning environment that promotes acceptance of differences and individualized curriculum and instruction designed with the child’s learning styles in mind.

What are the funding sources for education programs and school at UCP?

• Early Steps for children birth to 3 with special needs
• 4C for children birth to preschool/VPK
• Charter school funding for children with special needs 3 years and older and nondisabled children kindergarten through 2nd grade.
• Charter school funding for middle and high school children with special needs 
• Private pay accepted

FAQs: Therapy:

What therapies are offered at UCP?

• Physical, speech/language and occupational therapy.
• A trans-disciplinary approach to intervention.
• Music therapy and behavioral therapies.

What therapy services are offered at UCP?

• Developmental Screenings
• Hearing Screenings
• Evaluations/Re-evaluations
• Wheelchair Clinics (Fitting and Customization)
• Serial Casting and post casting maintenance/rehabilitation
• Upper/Lower Extremity Splinting
• Augmentative/Alternative Communication Assessments
• Parent Education (i.e., Hanen training, individualized home programs)
• Appointments available throughout the day at UCP, in your home or in your private school.
• Dedicated to working closely with parents, physicians, teachers, & other professionals.
• Comprehensive plans established to meet child & family needs.

What payment does UCP accept for therapy?

• Medicaid, list insurances here
• Early Steps
• Private Pay
• Public schools in Orange, Osceola and Seminole as part of UCP’s charter agreement
• UCP works closely with our families to assist in obtaining funding for services. Please contact our office for specific payment questions.

Who are the children who benefit most from the therapy services that UCP provides?

• Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
• Dyspraxia / Motor Incoordination
• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism / Pervasive Development Disorder
• Developmental Delay
• Learning Disabilities
• Hypotonia / Hypertonicity
• Central Auditory Processing Disorder
• Down Syndrome
• Oppositional Defiant Disorder / Difficult Behaviors
• Cerebral Palsy
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Stroke / Hemiparesis
• Behavioral & Emotional Disorder
• Brain Injuries

FAQs: Support:

What support services does UCP provide?

Supportive counseling program and individual, couples, and family counseling services are all available at UCP of Central Florida.