Join us for an Open House & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on October 8, 3:30–6 PM!
Compassionate and individualized special education
What we do
We are a community partner that takes referrals from Child Development Services and school districts to provide early childhood special education services in a preschool setting.
A warm, safe space where children feel respected and cared for, inspiring them to explore, express themselves, and grow naturally.
Safe & Caring Environment
Children learn best when they feel calm and connected. By prioritizing joy, we ensure learning feels meaningful, and fun every day.
Finding Joy
We teach children meaningful ways to express their needs, feelings, and ideas so they feel understood and connected with others.
Connection
Children are gently supported in building flexibility and coping skills, helping them tolerate delays, changes, and everyday challenges.
Understanding
We help children build the skills needed to participate in routines, follow expectations, and work collaboratively with trusted adults and peers.
Community
Now open and accepting students!
Our Mission
Skills for Life, LLC (SFL) provides compassionate, evidence-based early education for children with developmental disabilities. Our program focuses on building the communication, social, and adaptive skills children need to feel confident, connected, and ready for kindergarten and beyond. Through individualized teaching and supportive care, we help each child prepare for a successful transition to their community school.
PARTNER WITH US
Skills for Life partners with Child Development Services (CDS) and public schools to support children with autism and developmental disabilities as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond. See our FAQs to learn More.
Looking for Resources?
Families seeking services should begin by contacting Child Development Services or their local public school district. These teams can help guide the referral process and determine available supports.
Autism Society of Maine asmonline.org
National Institute of Mental Health on Autism
Autism Speaks 100-day toolkit
Maine Parent Federation: www.mpf.org
A few of our most frequently asked questions
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Skills for Life supports young children with autism and developmental disabilities who need a highly individualized early childhood program. Our program is designed for children who benefit from structured teaching, compassionate support, and a high level of adult support throughout the day.
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Skills for Life is designed for preschool-aged children, with a focus on children preparing for kindergarten and successful transitions into their community school setting.
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Children are referred to Skills for Life through Child Development Services (CDS) or their local public school district. families interested in learning more about our program should reach out to us or contact CDS or their school district to discuss whether a referral may be appropriate.
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Kindergarten transition planning is a central part of our program. We work on the skills children need to participate in school routines, communicate with others, tolerate everyday challenges, cooperate with trusted adults, and build independence. We also collaborate with families, CDS, and school teams to support a thoughtful transition.