PCDI: Brighter Futures
Who We Are
At Princeton Child Development Institute (PCDI), our mission is clear: to bring out the best in every individual we serve. For over five decades, we’ve provided exceptional, science-based education to individuals with autism, empowering them to achieve independence, dignity, and lifelong success. Every milestone is made possible by evidence-based intervention, personalized instruction, and a commitment to individuals and their families that never wavers.
Since opening in 1970, PCDI students have achieved remarkable outcomes. Of those who enrolled before age 5, 43% transitioned from PCDI, with 74% successfully entering general education settings. The rest transitioned to less-restrictive special education environments—all of them prepared with the skills, confidence, and determination to succeed.
Meet Dylan
Diagnosed with autism at 15 months, Dylan’s early life was filled with challenges. His parents, Jim and Ngoc, noticed early signs—limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty engaging with others—and sought the best possible support. At just 18 months, Dylan began his journey at PCDI in our early intervention program.
For Dylan, progress came in small but meaningful steps: saying his first words, tying his shoes, learning to ride a bike. What might come naturally to other children required careful, individualized teaching at PCDI. Everything that came naturally to others, PCDI taught Dylan from the very beginning, Ngoc recalls. With each new skill mastered, the future that once seemed uncertain grew brighter.
“The fact that I’m in college, and doing well is a testament to how PCDI was the most important stepping stone.” – Dylan
Dylan’s preschool years at PCDI were filled with learning experiences that nurtured both his academic skills and his social development. He fondly remembers trips to playgrounds where he learned to play and interact with peers, as well as using computers at PCDI—an early spark that ignited his passion for technology.
By the time Dylan graduated from PCDI in 2009, he was ready to transition to public school kindergarten without direct support—a monumental achievement made possible by his hard work, his family’s dedication, and the solid foundation built at PCDI. PCDI continued to support Dylan and his family, guiding them through challenges with his IEP and ensuring he had the tools to succeed.
“PCDI was always there – we always knew we could reach out.” – Jim and Ngoc
Today, Dylan is thriving in college, pursuing a degree in Information Technology with a focus on cybersecurity. Beyond his achievements in school, Dylan is most proud of his self-advocacy skills—securing the support he needs to ensure his success. Intelligent, articulate, and self-aware, Dylan’s autism diagnosis is often overlooked, making self-advocacy essential.
Why Your Support Matters
Dylan’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of PCDI’s work. But none of this is possible without the support of people like you. Your gift is more than a donation—it’s an investment in the future of individuals with autism and helps provide the individualized care, education, and opportunities to turn challenges into triumphs.
Give Today
When asked what he wants others to understand about autism, Dylan reflects, “Everyone’s experience with autism is unique. It’s important to sympathize not just with parents, but with the individuals themselves.”
Dylan’s story is one of possibility and hope—and your support ensures that more individuals like him can achieve their dreams. By giving to PCDI, you’re creating opportunities for lifelong learning, independence, and happiness.
Join us in making a difference. Give today, so students like Dylan can thrive tomorrow and beyond. Together, we can build a future where every individual with autism has the chance to live a full, meaningful life.