The CMS Approach™

The CMS Approach™ is a student-centered methodology aimed at enhancing the educational experience of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related disabilities.

The focus of our approach is on providing educators with the tools and strategies they need to deliver effective instruction and foster positive behavior, independence, and meaningful learning outcomes.

Through The CMS Approach™, our goal is to advance special education practices to:

  • Enhance students' acquisition of new skills
  • Reduce instances of challenging behaviors

We achieve this by integrating the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with an understanding of the unique learning needs of students with ASD and related disabilities.

By implementing this approach in classrooms, we can help improve access to education and enhance the overall quality of life for special needs students.

How We Support Educators

The CMS Approach™ is rooted in the belief that supporting teachers is fundamental to student success. This methodology is not just about identifying issues but about empowering educators with practical and effective strategies. 

We place a significant emphasis on developing and delivering behavioral management strategies that are both proactive and responsive. 

We support educators through The CMS Approach™ by thoroughly assessing classroom needs, considering teacher engagement and organization, as well as the student’s ability to learn effectively within a given environment. 

Some techniques we employ include:

  • Physical environment adjustments 
  • Fading stimulus prompts
  • Reinforcement systems
  • Visual supports
  • Differentiated instructional methods 

By equipping educators with these tools and strategies, we aim to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Domains of Practice

The CMS Approach™ focuses on six domains of practice. We provide workshops, training programs, and demo classes to help educators implement each of these domains in a live classroom. 

Pre-Planning

Within Domain I of The CMS Approach™, pre-planning is the foundational stage that involves strategic preparation by the educator even before students enter the classroom. It helps form the elemental base upon which the entire system of study is structured.

The CMS Approach™ emphasizes the importance of creating a structured learning environment that encourages your student’s growth. The success of your classroom starts with a thorough pre-planning stage.

Learn More About Domain I

Physical Environment Engineering

In Domain II of The CMS Approach™, we explore the crucial aspect of Physical Environment Engineering. This focuses on the strategic organization and structuring of the classroom space to optimize learning outcomes for students with ASD and related disabilities. 

This domain includes two key components:

  • Physical structure classroom mapping
  • Visual support structures

Physical Environment Engineering helps in effectively preparing classrooms and conveying a clear message to students through environmental cues.

For educators aiming to enhance the learning environment and foster positive behavior in their classrooms, this domain offers valuable insights into the role of Physical Environment Engineering.

Learn More About Domain II

Differentiated Individualized Student Schedules

In Domain III of The CMS Approach™, we delve into the concept of Differentiated Individualized Student Schedules. These schedules play a fundamental role in providing structure within the learning environment and help students with ASD and related disabilities manage their daily activities.

Individualized student schedules offer a visual representation of a student's daily activities. It helps them understand what they need to do, where they need to be, and in what sequence. 

Students with ASD and related disabilities often thrive when they have a predictable routine and understand what and why things are happening. Individualized visual schedules are a great way to convey this information to students. 

Learn More About Domain III

Independent Skill Advancement Areas

Independent Skill Advancement Areas is the Domain IV in The CMS Approach™. These areas are specific zones in the classroom where students are encouraged to develop their independent skills. 

Independent skill advancement areas in the classroom are designed to help students with learning differences become more independent.

They provide a structured environment with tools and support to help students learn new skills and complete tasks on their own.

Teachers play a key role by designing personalized tasks, measuring progress, and reducing support as students become more confident. 

Learn More About Domain IV

Cooperative Peer Interaction Area

The Cooperative Peer Interaction Area constitutes Domain V of The CMS Approach™. It is a designated space within the classroom where cooperative learning activities take place. As a teacher, you are the guide who helps make these collaborative learning experiences happen.

This domain emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for students to learn from each other by working together in pairs or small groups. It promotes activities where students work cooperatively towards a common goal. This includes discussions, shared tasks, games, role-playing, and information exchange activities.

Cooperative learning is not just helpful for some students—it benefits everyone, no matter their background or academic level. By using these activities in your classroom, you can make learning fun and exciting for students with ASD and related disabilities.

Learn More About Domain V

Behavior Management

Domain VI of The CMS Approach™ focuses on the management of the behavior of students in your classroom. Behavior Management focuses on guiding and directing student behavior to promote positive conduct and minimize disruptive or undesirable actions. 

With behavior management, teachers use different methods like setting clear rules, giving rewards for desired behavior, and consequences for undesirable behavior. They also teach students better ways to act, create routines, and offer support based on what each student needs. 

The aim is to encourage desirable behavior, help students socialize better, and make sure everyone can learn and feel good.

Learn More About Domain IV

Join The CMS Community

We invite you and your school district to become part of a community that values expertise, empathy, and empowerment. Together, we can create a learning environment where every student can shine.

By embracing The CMS Approach™, you are not only enhancing your own teaching experience but also shaping a brighter future for students with ASD and related disabilities. Let's take this journey together, building an educational landscape where everyone belongs and thrives. 

Partner with CMS
A Premier Behavior Collaborative, wrap-around behavioral supports for your district's needs

24851 S Ellsworth Rd. Ste. 100-151
Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Phone:
1-833-4-BEHAVIOR
(1-833-4-23428467)

Working Hours

Monday - Friday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

A Premier Behavior Collaborative, wrap-around behavioral supports for your district's needs
PARTNER WITH CMS
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