Local training in Ukraine

On August 29, 2025, a local training session was held at the Odessa Academy of Continuing Education of the Odessa Regional Council as part of international project No. 2023-1 CZ01-KA220-SCH-000156079 “Preparing children for school using a preschool program based on applied behavioral analysis” within the framework of the EU Erasmus+ program. The project expands the opportunities for educators to assess and meet the developmental needs of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

The aim of the training was to deepen educators’ knowledge of the use of applied behavioral analysis (ABA) principles in preparing preschool children for school, and to develop practical skills for implementing individual development programs aimed at forming key competencies in future first-graders with ASD.

Participants studied an innovative and effective teaching and learning kit based on ABA principles and adapted for easy implementation by educators who do not have formal training in ABA.

Throughout the day, preschool educators familiarized themselves with the Ready4School project’s teaching kit. The training took place in the format of interactive classes, which included mini-lectures, group discussions, case studies, role-playing games, practical exercises, and modeling of educational situations. Teachers immersed themselves in modern methods of reinforcement, individualization of learning, and the creation of development paths for children with different educational needs.

Participants gained not only new knowledge but also practical tools that will help future first graders confidently start school. The event was an important step in the professional development of teachers, contributed to the spread of inclusive and competency-based education practices in preschool institutions, and helped educators improve their methodological arsenal in working with future first graders. The training was a step towards quality and inclusive preschool education!