University Center for the Development of Language and Literacy (UCLL)

University Center for the Development of Language and Literacy
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University Center for the Development of the Language and Literacy (UCLL)
Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if this program is right for my child?
If your child has one or more of the following, he or she may be a good candidate for PACT:

  • a decreased vocabulary or difficulty communicating wants and needs
  • difficulty following directions
  • difficulty playing with toys appropriately or demonstrating pretend play skills
  • difficulty sharing interests or activities with peers or adults
  • decreased eye contact
This is not an exhaustive list of characteristics that children in PACT may exhibit. Please contact UCLL if you have specific concerns about your child or to schedule a language and literacy evaluation. 

How many weeks does the program last?
Each PACT session is six weeks long, Monday through Thursday.

How many hours a day is the program?
The program runs 2.5 hours a day, 4 days a week.

Can I drop my child off?
You or another caregiver must stay in the building while your child is in PACT.

I see that UCLL is located on U-M’s campus. Is parking available?
Yes! UCLL provides a free valet service to PACT participants at the Victor Vaughan Building.

Does my child need to be toilet-trained?
No, your child does not need to be toilet-trained to participate in PACT. When the PACT staff notices that your child needs to be changed, a staff member will transition him or her to the bathroom so that you can change him or her. More detail about this process is presented to parents at the parent orientation on the first day.

My child has a food allergy/special diet. Will that be a problem during snack time?
Snack time is an important part of the day in PACT because it’s a great opportunity for children to learn appropriate social skills about food and eating. PACT uses fresh vegetables and other natural and organic foods whenever possible. During parent orientation, a PACT staff member will ask you to note any food allergies or foods that you prefer your child not have.

How many adults are in the classroom at a time?
Our adult-to-child ratio is nearly 1:1. PACT is staffed by two professional speech-language pathologists, a music therapist, teaching assistant, and volunteers. We find that the children learn better when an adult is able to give them the support that they need.

Can others (e.g., family members, babysitters) attend the parent sessions with me?
Anyone who is a possible caregiver to the child is welcome to attend the Parent Education Seminars. Please let the UCLL receptionist know in advance that someone else will be attending so that we can allow for enough space and handouts, if necessary.

Can my child’s teacher/therapist/aide observe my child in PACT?
Teachers, etc. are encouraged to observe your child at any time. All non-parent visitors must check in at the UCLL front desk to sign privacy forms BEFORE observing a session.

How is this program different from other preschool programs?
Unlike other programs, PACT focuses on developing social language and play skills in a structured environment. The class is led by certified speech-language pathologists who are experts on child language development. Your child will receive group and individual therapy everyday.

Interested in learning more about PACT?

Background
Program Description
Parent Resources
Professional Resources
Enroll your child in PACT
PACT Outcomes
PACT Research
PACT FAQ
Testimonials
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