What We Do

Classes at Project Help are structured according to an activity-based model. This means that classes have a schedule of activities including times for free play, learning / interest center usage, structured activities, group story and song time, snack, and outdoor play.

The curriculum is based on the age-appropriate skills that are needed for children in all of the developmental areas or domains: cognitive, social / emotional, language / communication, gross and fine motor / physical functioning, and adaptive behaviors.

Each child participates according to his / her needs and ability. All children will be assisted when help is required. Children who are typically developing will be encouraged to use their skills and to develop to their maximum potential.

Project Help is a free of charge service for families of children with delays in Rutherford County. Funding is provided through the Department of Education, the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties, MTSU, and private donations. Individual contributions are accepted through the Middle Tennessee State University Foundation - Project Help account.

For families who have children with no delays there are several different tuition plans and rates.

The hours of operation are 7:30-4:30 five days a week for the typical preschool at Baird Lane. The morning session for children with special needs begins at 8:30 and ends at 11:00. The afternoon session begins at 1:00 and ends at 3:30.

For typically developing children, families bring a lunch for the staff to microwave and / or prepare. These children take a nap for approximately an hour. They then are ready to be involved in the afternoon session with a different set of friends. The children who are typically developing attending the Yellow Room have a nutritious snack prior to leaving at 11:00. There are plans to expand the hours of the Yellow Room program.