Therapeutic Day School & Intensive Therapy Day Program for Children Ages 6-14
At Merlin Day Academy, we provide integrated education and therapeutic services for children ages 6–14 with autism, developmental delays, and related needs.
Our approach is simple:
- Every child receives individualized support
- Education and therapy work together
- Progress is measured in real-life outcomes
We offer two specialized programs, each designed around your child’s level of need.
Therapeutic Day School (Grades K–8)
ISBE-Approved | IEP-Based Program
Our Therapeutic Day School is designed for students who need a structured, supportive academic environment with built-in therapeutic services.
Each student receives:
✔ Individualized instruction based on their IEP
✔ Small class sizes for personalized attention
✔ Integrated support from therapists and educators
✔ A structured environment that builds confidence and independence
How Learning Works
We meet students where they are—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Instruction includes:
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Differentiated teaching based on learning style
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Multisensory and structured lessons
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Flexible pacing to support real progress
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State-aligned curriculum (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies)
Beyond Academics: Whole-Child Development
Students build critical life skills, including:
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Emotional regulation
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Communication and social skills
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Problem-solving and independence
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Self-advocacy
Merlin Day Academy serves students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in the following disability categories:
- Intellectual Disability
- Learning Disability
- Speech/Language Delay
- Other Health Impairment
- Developmental Delay
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
Which Program Is Right for Your Child?
If your child has an IEP and needs a school placement, our Therapeutic Day School may be the right fit.
If your child needs more intensive, insurance-based therapy support, our Private Intensive Therapeutic Day Program might be a better option.
And if you’re not completely sure—that’s okay. Most families aren’t at first. We’ll talk through your child’s needs and help you figure out the best path forward.
The Merlin Approach to Learning©
What makes Merlin Day Academy different is how we bring everything together.
Our Merlin Approach to Learning© integrates academics, therapy, and social-emotional development throughout the entire school day, not as separate services, but as one cohesive experience.
A core part of this model is our daily Therapy Rotation, where students build:
- Emotional awareness
- Self-regulation skills
- Social understanding
- Positive peer interactions
We incorporate evidence-based frameworks such as:
- Zones of Regulation
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Play Therapy
- Intentional Relationship Model (IRM)
This approach is especially impactful for students with autism and social challenges—helping them better understand themselves and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Our Integrated Services
Rather than offering isolated services, Merlin Day Academy provides comprehensive support across every part of your child’s school day.
Specialized Academic Instruction
Students receive individualized instruction from certified special education teachers, tailored to their unique learning style and goals.
This includes:
- Individualized Education Program (IEP) development and implementation
- Literacy and reading support
- Writing and communication development
- Hands-on math instruction focused on real understanding and confidence
Our goal is to help each student close learning gaps while building confidence in the classroom.
Embedded Therapeutic Services
Therapy is built into the school day to support growth across all areas of development.
Services include:
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy (fine motor, sensory processing, daily living skills)
- Social Work and Counseling Services
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies to support learning and behavior
Because these services are integrated, students can apply what they learn in real-time within the classroom environment.
State-Approved, District-Placed Program
Merlin Day Academy is approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
Students can be placed at Merlin Day Academy by their home school district as part of their IEP.
This approval reflects our commitment to:
- High-quality, specialized education
- Evidence-based support
- Equitable access for students who need a more supportive setting
A School Designed for Growth, Confidence, and Independence
At Merlin Day Academy, we believe every child deserves an environment where they feel supported, understood, and capable of success.
Our integrated model helps students:
- Build academic skills
- Strengthen communication
- Develop emotional awareness
- Gain independence
- Experience success in school
