
Black Bear Academy
Grades and ages
Grades PreK-5
Student-teacher ratio
3:1
Tuition
Contact School for Program Tuition and Clinical Insurance Billing Information
School photos
About Black Bear Academy
Black Bear Academy is an esteemed therapeutic day school and clinical pediatric practice located in Chicago's Lakeview/North Center neighborhood. Founded in 2003, Black Bear Academy provides intensive therapeutic education and early intervention for children ages 18 months through 10 years with speech-language delays, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, and sensory motor challenges. With low 3:1 classroom ratios, the academy bridges the gap between clinical therapy and academic schooling by integrating speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and academic instruction into a cohesive daily schedule. Black Bear Academy prepares young learners for long-term academic success through structured early childhood, therapeutic kindergarten, and lower elementary classrooms.
Student fit
Who this school serves
Grades and ages
- Toddler / Early Intervention
- Preschool
- Kindergarten
- Grades 1-3
- Preschool (Ages 2-5)
- Elementary (K-5)
Learning needs supported
- autism spectrum disorders
- developmental delays
- language-based learning disabilities
Specialties
- Developmental Delays
- Speech & Language Impairments
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Sensory Processing Disorders
- Fine and Gross Motor Deficits
Learning and support
Curriculum and therapeutic services
Services and supports
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Occupational Therapy & Sensory Integration
- Physical Therapy
- Behavioral Therapy & Consultation
- Feeding Therapy
- Social Skills Groups
Programs
Programs at Black Bear Academy
Other programs and supports
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Occupational Therapy & Sensory Integration
- Physical Therapy
- Behavioral Therapy & Consultation
- Feeding Therapy
- Social Skills Groups
School facts
Practical details for families
Accreditation and licensing
- State Registered Early Childhood & Therapeutic Center
Tuition and funding
Tuition: Contact School for Program Tuition and Clinical Insurance Billing Information
- Private Pay
- Health Insurance Reimbursement for Clinical Therapies (Speech, OT, Behavioral)
More school photos

Visit us
Location and directions
Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Black Bear Academy
What makes Black Bear Academy unique in early childhood education?
Black Bear Academy combines clinical pediatric therapy with early childhood education under one roof. Therapists and teachers co-treat in the classroom, ensuring speech, motor, and regulation goals are practiced naturally throughout daily academic routines.
What ages and grade levels are offered at Black Bear Academy?
The academy serves children ages 18 months through 10 years, offering toddler transition, preschool, kindergarten, and lower elementary grade programs alongside outpatient pediatric therapies.
Can families use insurance for services at Black Bear Academy?
Yes. Black Bear Academy works with families to bill commercial health insurance plans for eligible clinical services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
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