The Early Language Intervention (ELI) pre-school in Oranmore has this week welcomed the appointment of Dr Kristen Maglieri, who will head the expert team of teachers and speech and language practitioners.

The Early Language Intervention (ELI) pre-school specialises in speech and language intervention through the use of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).

Commenting on the recent controversy surrounding the use of ABA in the education of children with autism, Dr Kristen Maglieri said, "Behaviour Analysis is a natural science; it is an approach to understanding behaviour and applied behaviour analysis concerns itself with the development of socially important behaviour including language and communication. Through the application of this science, I have seen a remarkable progression of children with autism and other disabilities, which is why I was interested in working with ELI schools. The marriage of ABA and speech and language intervention is sensible and responsible.

Dr Kristen Maglieri has been appointed the Director of Clinical Services for western operations. Dr Maglieri has 15 years experience working with children with language and behavioural difficulties. She spent five years at the world-renowned Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, Maryland, worked as a behavioural consultant for the Nevada Centre for Severe Behaviour Problems, as a behaviour specialist for the City of Reno, and a clinical supervisor for BEST Consulting, an autism service provider.

For further information on Early Language Intervention (ELI) pre-schools, contact 091-877875.