Preschool Program (Alberta Education)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PUF?
Program Unit Funding (PUF) is provided by Alberta Education for children
who have been diagnosed with a severe disability and who require additional
support and services beyond those that are in place in the Early Childhood
Services (ECS) program.
PUF is available to:
- Children in Early Childhood Services (preschool, daycare, and/or
kindergarten).
- Children 2.5 to 6 years of age (Please Note: Children who reach the
age of 6 before September 1 of the school year are not eligible for
PUF).
- Funding is provided for a maximum of 3 years.
What is the Centre for Autism Services Alberta and how is it involved
with PUF?
The Centre for Autism Services Alberta (formally Family Linkages
Foundation of Alberta) is a non-profit registered charity offering children
diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The Centre has been
providing services to children affected by ASD in the Greater Edmonton Area
since 1997.
The Centre for Autism Services Alberta is an approved PUF provider and
can provide a school placement, multidisciplinary team, and aide support for
the child in a community classroom. The main purpose of PUF is the inclusion
of the child in a local community school with typically developing peers.
Why is inclusion important?
Through inclusion opportunities, children with autism develop new and
genuine friendships with typically developing peers who model appropriate
behaviors. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) learn appropriate
social, communication, and life skills within a natural setting. In
addition, children attending an inclusive PUF program demonstrate a greater
success in community experiences.
What is provided?
Educational programming is provided for preschool and kindergarten aged
children in a child’s local community school. Our certified teacher for the
PUF program partners with the school of the parent’s choice to provide
individualized services for your child.
Experienced Educational Aides are trained to work with your child
one-on-one. You will also receive consultation from a Speech Language
Pathologist and Occupational Therapist. In-home and in-school consultation
will be provided by the PUF program teacher to ensure consistency and
collaboration between the home and school. In addition, an Individualized
Program Plan (IPP) will be developed for your child by a team of
professionals, parents, and the school teacher.
Depending on your child’s needs, other services may be accessed including
a Psychologist, Physical Therapist, and/or Music Therapist.
What are some additional benefits?
The Centre for Autism Services Alberta can provide additional benefits
for your child. These may include:
- Specialized Services: in-home and community based programming to
address areas of need such as communication and self-help skills.
- Groups: access to a variety of therapy based and leisure groups.
- Summer Camp: access to a specialized summer camp program with a
focus on community outings.
- Respite Services: in-home relief.
How do I apply for the Pre-school PLACE Program (PUF)?
For more information or to apply to the program:
Contact Person
Chantal Davis, PUF Program Coordinator,
chantaldavis@centreforautism.ab.ca
