SDP Vendor • California
Language lessons and enrichment for SDP families in California
Strommen is a registered Self-Determination Program vendor. We provide private language lessons, music instruction, and enrichment services—billed directly through your FMS at no out-of-pocket cost to you.
What we teach
Every lesson is private, one-on-one, and tailored to your child's interests, needs, and pace.
Languages
50+ languages including Spanish, Mandarin, ASL, French, Korean, Arabic, and more
Music
Piano, guitar, trumpet, drums, voice, and other instruments with patient instructors
Academic Tutoring
Reading, writing, math, and subject-area support customized to the learner
Communication Skills
Social language, conversation practice, and pragmatic communication support
Dialect Coaching
Accent reduction, speech clarity, and pronunciation for confidence
How SDP works with Strommen
Five straightforward steps from choosing your vendor to starting lessons.
You pick your vendor
Tell your Independent Facilitator (IF) that you want to use Strommen for language lessons, music, or enrichment services.
We register with your FMS
We work with your Financial Management Service—ACE FMS, Public Partnerships (PPL), GT Independence, or whichever provider you use.
We build a lesson plan
Your child's person-centered plan drives the curriculum. We design lessons around their goals, interests, and learning style.
Lessons begin
Private one-on-one instruction on your schedule. In-person in the Los Angeles area or online from anywhere in California.
Billing through your FMS
We bill your FMS directly. No out-of-pocket cost to you—it's covered by your SDP budget allocation.
Our instructors are experienced working with neurodivergent learners, including students on the autism spectrum. We prioritize patience, structure, and genuine connection. Every lesson is adapted in real time to the student's comfort level and engagement, because learning happens best when a student feels safe and understood.
Why language lessons belong in your SDP plan
Language learning is one of the most effective ways to build the skills that SDP is designed to support. It strengthens communication—not just in the target language, but in a learner's native language too. Students develop active listening, turn-taking, and the confidence to express themselves in new social situations.
"When a student learns to say 'thank you' in three languages, they're not just memorizing words. They're practicing eye contact, timing, and social reciprocity."
Beyond communication, language study drives cognitive development: working memory, pattern recognition, and executive function all improve with regular practice. For families with cultural or heritage ties to another language, lessons also provide cultural connection—a chance for your child to participate in family traditions, understand their grandparents, or engage with their community on deeper terms.
Music instruction offers many of the same benefits. Learning an instrument builds focus, motor coordination, emotional regulation, and a sense of accomplishment that carries into every other part of life.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Self-Determination Program?
The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a California program that gives individuals with developmental disabilities and their families more control over the services and supports they receive. Instead of the regional center choosing vendors, participants manage their own budget and select their own providers.
Who qualifies for SDP?
SDP is available to individuals who receive services through a California regional center. Participants must be selected into the program by their regional center, work with an Independent Facilitator, and use a Financial Management Service to manage their budget.
Can SDP funds pay for language lessons?
Yes. Language lessons, music instruction, and enrichment services can be included in a person-centered plan when they support the individual's goals—such as improving communication, social skills, cognitive development, or community participation. Your Independent Facilitator can help document how these services fit your plan.
What FMS providers do you work with?
We work with all major Financial Management Services in California, including ACE FMS, Public Partnerships (PPL), and GT Independence. If your FMS isn't listed, contact us—we're happy to register with additional providers.
Do I need a referral from my regional center?
Not a referral in the traditional sense. You need SDP enrollment through your regional center, an approved spending plan, and an Independent Facilitator. Once you've selected Strommen as your vendor, we handle the registration and onboarding with your FMS.
Where are you located?
Strommen is based in Los Angeles, California. We offer in-person lessons throughout the greater LA area and online lessons to families anywhere in California. Many of our SDP families choose online lessons for the flexibility and convenience.
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your family and we'll walk you through the process.