Sensory Room & Autism Support at PHM
PHM Academy in Sanford, FL is one of the few child care centers in Seminole County with a dedicated sensory room and RBT-trained staff. Built for children with autism, SPD, and developmental differences.
We Did Not Add Autism Support as an Afterthought
Most child care centers say they are "inclusive." PHM Academy was built for it. Our founder, Annie Mkoma, created PHM with the specific intention of serving children that other programs overlook — children with autism, sensory processing challenges, and developmental differences.
That means RBT-trained staff in every classroom, a dedicated sensory room you can tour before you enroll, and classroom environments that are designed — not retrofitted — to reduce overstimulation.
Your child does not need to "fit in" here. They already belong.
How We Support Your Child Daily
RBT-Trained Staff
Our teachers hold Registered Behavior Technician training, bringing evidence-based behavioral strategies into everyday classroom routines — not just therapy sessions.
Sensory Room On-Site
A dedicated, purpose-built sensory space with soft lighting, tactile tools, weighted options, and calming materials — available to any child who needs a reset or regulation break.
Structured, Predictable Days
Visual schedules, consistent routines, and clear transitions help children with autism feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn.
Low-Stimulation Classroom Options
Our classrooms are designed to minimize unnecessary sensory overload — subdued color palettes, reduced clutter, and intentional noise management.
Inclusive, Not Segregated
Children with autism and sensory differences learn alongside their neurotypical peers in the same classroom — building social skills naturally within a supported environment.
Parent Communication
Daily updates, open-door policies, and a dedicated staff member as your point of contact. We believe parents are essential partners in every child's progress.
See the Space
The best way to understand PHM is to walk through our doors — but these photos give you a sense of what we have built.
Heard from PHM Parents
"I toured 6 daycares in Seminole County. PHM was the only one that actually knew what RBT training meant and had a real sensory room — not just a corner with a beanbag. My son has been thriving here for 8 months."
Maria T.
Mom of 4-year-old with autism
"Our daughter came to us with significant trauma history and sensory sensitivities. PHM staff were patient, communicative, and genuinely warm from day one. The ELC covered most of the cost — we had no idea it was even an option."
DeShawn & Keisha R.
Foster parents in Sanford
"My son used to have daily meltdowns at his previous center. Within two weeks at PHM he was calm at drop-off. The structured routine and sensory room made all the difference. The staff actually get it."
Tomás E.
Dad of sensory-sensitive 4-year-old
Autism Support FAQs
Does my child need a formal autism diagnosis to receive support?
No. We support all children with sensory processing differences, developmental delays, and behavioral needs — regardless of whether they have an official diagnosis. If you have concerns about your child, we will work with you from wherever you are.
What does "RBT-trained" mean in practice?
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training means our staff understand Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles. In practice, this means consistent positive reinforcement, clear instructions, de-escalation strategies, and individualized behavioral plans when needed.
Is the sensory room always available?
Yes. The sensory room is available throughout the day and is supervised. Children can be directed there proactively by a teacher during transitions, or as a calm-down tool if they become dysregulated.
What is the teacher-to-child ratio in your autism-supportive classes?
We maintain a 1:10 teacher-to-child ratio in our Micro School, and we have additional aides available when needed for children requiring one-on-one support.
Do you work with outside therapists (OT, speech, ABA)?
Absolutely. We actively coordinate with families' existing therapy teams and welcome outside providers who want to work with children in our environment during the day.
My child has meltdowns. Can PHM handle that?
Yes. Our staff are specifically trained in safe de-escalation and sensory regulation techniques. We do not use exclusionary discipline. We will communicate with you honestly and work collaboratively to support your child.