Learning House

Alexander Graham Bell Montessori School in Wheeling combines Montessori classrooms with a full-inclusion program for children with language, hearing and speech needs. Children learn alongside hearing peers while teachers use individual and small-group instruction to build language, literacy and academic skills. The school uses Cued Speech to supplement spoken English, especially when listening becomes difficult or children encounter new ideas. Certified teachers of the deaf, a speech-language pathologist and a special education teacher work with Montessori classroom staff. They provide on-site educational and therapeutic support according to a child's IEP or IFSP. Illinois has approved the school to serve children who are deaf or hard of hearing and children with speech and language delays through age 15. Programs run from infant and toddler classrooms through preschool, kindergarten, elementary and middle school. The 2026–27 enrollment window covers ages six weeks to 15 years. Families can also ask about summer programs, before- and after-school enrichment, and state-funded infant/toddler or Pre-K for All places for eligible children. The school is at 9300 Capitol Drive; contact the school to arrange a visit or ask about enrollment.

ABC Academy is a private school in Chicago serving prekindergarten and kindergarten students. Contact the school directly to confirm its current programs, availability, and student support services.

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.