A Therapeutic Day School in Chicago for Neurodiverse Learners Ages 6-14.
At Merlin Day Academy, we believe every child deserves a school where they are truly understood, supported, and empowered to succeed. We provide children ages 6–14 with neurodiverse learning needs a highly individualized educational and therapeutic experience rooted in strong relationships and family-centered care. Our approach helps students build confidence, develop essential academic and life skills, and discover their own ability to thrive—both in and beyond the classroom.
Our ultimate goal is to help students return successfully to their least restrictive environment, whether that is their home school or another community setting. Through close collaboration between educators, clinicians, and families, we create supportive, sustainable learning environments that prioritize self-efficacy, independence, and meaningful progress. At Merlin Day Academy, we focus not only on where your child is today, but on where they are capable of going.
Integrated academics, therapy, and individualized support in a nurturing environment.
Merlin Day Academy Programs
Merlin Day Academy offers two program options designed to meet the clinical and educational needs of each student through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach.
I) Private Insurance & Tuition Program
This program combines clinically driven services with an individualized educational program. Clinical services are billed through private insurance, while families pay tuition for the educational portion of the program. Students receive coordinated therapeutic and academic support throughout the day, with close collaboration between clinical and education teams to address developmental, behavioral, and learning goals.
II) ISBE-Funded Program (District Placement & IEP)
This program is funded through the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and is available to students placed by their home school district through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Educational and related therapeutic services are provided in alignment with the student’s IEP, ensuring access to comprehensive supports in a therapeutic school setting. Our teams collaborate closely with districts and families to support student progress across academic, social-emotional, and functional domains.
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Merlin Day Academy’s Approach to Learning and Curriculum
The Merlin Approach to Learning©
At Merlin Day Academy, learning begins with understanding the whole child. Our approach is intentionally personalized, meeting each student where they are while supporting their individual academic, social, and developmental goals. We integrate specialized instruction with therapeutic supports to help children build skills in self-regulation, social-emotional development, and meaningful peer interactions—skills that extend beyond the classroom and into everyday life.
What sets Merlin Day Academy apart is our commitment to a sensory-informed, relationship-driven model of care. Progress is supported through evidence-based practices, strong partnerships with families, and consistent collaboration across educational and clinical teams. By creating thoughtfully designed learning environments and prioritizing connection, we help children grow confidently across all areas of development.
Meet Our Staff
Merlin Day Academy Education Staff
Merlin Day Academy’s education team is composed of highly qualified and experienced educators dedicated to supporting the academic and developmental needs of each student. Our education staff includes certified Special Education Teachers, Learning Behavior Specialists (LBS1), Classroom Teachers, Instructional Assistants, and 1:1 Aides who are trained to work within a therapeutic educational setting.
Each member of our education team brings a strong foundation in evidence-based instruction and individualized learning strategies. Our educators work collaboratively with clinical staff to ensure academic programming is aligned with therapeutic goals, allowing students to receive consistent, comprehensive support throughout the school day. Through teamwork and a student-centered approach, our education staff fosters a structured, nurturing learning environment that promotes academic growth, independence, and confidence.
Merlin Day Academy Clinical Staff
Merlin Day Academy’s clinical team is made up of highly trained and experienced therapists serving children across the Chicago area. Our multidisciplinary clinical staff includes Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, and Therapeutic Assistants.
Each clinician brings specialized expertise and a strong commitment to client-centered care. Our therapists work collaboratively as part of an integrated team to ensure that every area of a child’s development is thoughtfully and effectively addressed. We believe that coordinated care across disciplines leads to meaningful progress, stronger relationships, and increased confidence for the children we serve.
