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Author: Brad Zelinger

Stride Autism Centers Named a 2024 Top Workplace

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

We are excited to share that Stride Autism Centers has been recognized as a 2024 Top Workplace, with special recognition for Employee Wellbeing and Professional Development! This honor is especially meaningful because it’s based entirely on the feedback of our team members, who expressed that “joyful” is one of the words that best describes our culture.

At Stride, we believe that a positive and nurturing environment for our staff translates directly into the personalized care we provide to your children. According to our Chief Clinical Systems Officer, Dr. Ashley Whittington-Barnish, PhD, LCP, BCBA-D, NCSP, “Our goal is to create a work environment that cultivates joy for our staff, so they can cultivate joy for the children in their care. When our team members feel supported, valued, and inspired, they bring their best selves to work each day—and that makes all the difference for the kids.”

Creating a workplace that is caring, nurturing, inspiring, and welcoming is one of Stride’s core values. We invest in mentorship, professional growth, and wellbeing programs because we know that our success depends on our team’s happiness, mental health, and engagement.

A BCBA team member who has worked at other ABA clinics before joining Stride, shares how different the experience is: “At Stride, you feel truly seen, heard, and valued. The high staff-to-child ratio, consistent schedule, and skill building opportunities is unlike anywhere else I’ve worked. That sense of being valued helps us give our best to the kids every day.”

Stride’s commitment to our people means that we can continue to attract and retain the best talent in the field of ABA therapy—professionals who are not only experts in their field but are also passionate about making a lasting difference in the lives of young children with autism.

We are deeply grateful to the families who trust us with their children’s care. Your continued belief in our mission keeps us striving to do better every day. This recognition as a Top Workplace confirms that we are on the right path, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you.

A colorful graphic icon featuring three alphabet blocks used at Stride Autism Centers for early childhood learning.

Onward…!

Was your preschool child diagnosed with autism? Here’s 5 things you should do next

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Your child’s autism diagnosis can be destabilizing even if you suspected it. You may feel alone, unsure of how to support them, and fearful of what their future will look like. These emotions are completely normal and natural, but thankfully, they aren’t long lasting. 

Once you understand how to support your child and learn about the different interventions available to them, you can help your child thrive. With the help of your support team, you can help uncover your child’s unique abilities and strengths, and foster healthy growth and development that will build a firm foundation for their life. 

At Stride Autism Centers, we aim to give parents the resources they need to help design a plan of action for their preschool child with autism. We’ll discuss what to do if you’ve just received a diagnosis and give you actionable tips for beginning the journey with your child. 

1. Educate Yourself

Receiving your child’s autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay if you haven’t had time to learn everything yet. Take it step by step, and know that there are many resources available to help you understand your child’s needs. Autism affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States, so you are not alone in this journey. Learning about autism can empower you to support your child, one day at a time.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that is most commonly diagnosed in childhood. Diagnosis may happen between 18-24 months of age, but you may have noticed signs and symptoms of autism in your child sooner. Autism affects the way a child communicates, responds to social situations, learns, and behaves. 

In addition to hard copy books and publications, you can gather information about your child’s diagnosis from reputable websites like The American Autism Association, and the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychology. Through your research, you’ll learn that a focus on early childhood intervention can help children become more successful in life, and can help uncover their strengths as well as areas to improve.

2. Build a Support Team

Raising a child takes a village, and a diagnosis of autism will require a support team you can rely on for aid in helping you ensure your child has the best opportunity to thrive. Begin building your network by ensuring your child’s primary caregivers, educators, family members, and pediatricians are all aware of your child’s diagnosis. These individuals can become valuable members of your child’s support team. It’s also important to make these caregivers and providers aware of your child’s diagnosis so that they can offer any available accommodations to your child to make your child’s life easier and more comfortable.

The involvement of close friends and loved ones can help you get relief when you need a break, or if you’ve had a particularly challenging day. If you don’t feel you have reliable people close by, consider joining a local support group for parents of children with autism. There, you’ll be able to connect with other parents who are dealing with similar challenges as your own. 

If you aren’t able to find a local support group, consider an online support group that offers real-time meetings. These will help you feel connected and may work better for people with very limited schedules. 

3. Explore Early Intervention Services

Early intervention is key, and your child’s preschool diagnosis is a valuable asset to their growth and development. Involving your child in an early intervention therapy program, like Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy (“ABA therapy”) can help set them up for a successful future. There are numerous types of therapies available to help your child. 

  • ABA Therapy. The gold standard of interventional treatment, ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement for encouraging positive behaviors through play, one-on-one therapy sessions, and other child-focused engagement techniques. ABA therapy centers help prepare your child for life by encouraging independence and more effective communication methods.
  • Speech therapy. For children who have a limited vocabulary, speech therapy can help your child develop the motor plans to produce sounds and words. If your child is non-verbal, communication therapy can help your child learn alternative methods, like the Picture Exchange Communication system (PECS), hand-gestures, or the use of specialized communication devices. 
  • Occupational therapy. One goal of occupational therapy is to encourage your child to complete tasks independently. Accomplishing tasks is encouraged by breaking them down into smaller tasks and having your child master the smaller tasks so that they can gain more independence and work on life skills. 

It’s never too soon to contact early intervention specialists focused on ABA in your area. Getting started as soon as your child receives a diagnosis gives them the most exposure time to these therapies and the best opportunity to work on new skills prior to beginning kindergarten. 

4. Create a Routine That Works for Your Child

Structure and routine are important for children with autism. Children with autism thrive on predictability and often benefit from repeated behaviors and tasks to understand and master new skills. Although it is impossible to create a routine that will never change, you can create stability in your home and in your routine in a few simple ways. 

  • Provide structure within activities of daily living. For instance, in the morning, tasks can include eating breakfast, brushing teeth, and getting dressed. In the evening, tasks may include bathing, having story time, and going to bed.
  • Use visual cues. Visual cue cards that delineate tasks with pictures may be easier for some children to use and understand, as they depict a digestible visual story. 
  • Use positive reinforcement. When your child accomplishes something from the routine, give them praise and reward them for doing so. This method of “behavior management” encourages your child to repeat the behavior. 
  • Restructure your child’s environment. For instance, if your child is responsible for getting themselves dressed, it may be necessary to lay their clothes out for them instead of having them take them from their closet or dresser themselves. 
  • Stay flexible. Your child won’t be able to maintain their task list or routine perfectly. As a result, remaining flexible with your child can help them feel safe to make mistakes and take breaks from their routine as needed. 

Keeping your daily routine can be a challenge, and there will be some days when the schedule is less predictable than other days. If you know that a schedule change will occur, talk to your child about it before it happens. You can also use techniques that your child is learning in their therapy sessions at home. Discuss coping techniques with your child’s therapist(s) and incorporate them at home to help reinforce them. 

5. Stay Positive and Celebrate Progress

Maintaining a positive attitude is key to ensuring your journey with your child is joyful and supportive. When challenges arise, remind yourself that you’re doing your best and that it’s okay to have tough moments. When you lose your cool or feel defeated, don’t spend time feeling guilty. Every parent of a child with autism deals with these struggles. 

One way to support your child and bring joy to each day is to celebrate each milestone, no matter how small. When your child unlocks a new skill or completes a new task, there is cause for celebration. Celebrating these small moments reinforces the process of establishing additional skills and can bring about more progress over time. 

When you feel particularly discouraged, reach out to your support group to find hope through their stories. Remember that the days often seem long, but the years are always short. A rough day won’t last more than 24 hours, and it is usually followed with a day that is more pleasant. When negative feelings arise, find an excuse to get out of the house and have fun with your child. 

Jump Right In

Your child’s autism diagnosis may be unexpected, and may be overwhelming. Keep in mind that this early diagnosis is a best-case scenario, and allows you to seek intervention on behalf of your child at an age when they are most adaptable. 

As soon as you receive the diagnosis, take these steps:

  1. Educate yourself.
  2. Build a support system. 
  3. Explore early intervention services.
  4. Create a routine that works for your child.
  5. Stay positive. 

There will be many milestones for you to enjoy with your child, and this is only the beginning. At Stride Autism Centers, we want to partner with you to offer guidance, support, and therapy options that are tailored to preschool-aged children. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with you and your child.

 

Sources:

Autism | World Health Organization.int 

Educate Yourself on Autism this World Autism Month | My Autism.org 

Autism Resource Center | AACAP.org

Why Starting ABA Therapy Early is Important for Your Child

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States. As research continues into this neurodivergent condition, ABA therapy remains the frontline course of intervention for securing successful outcomes for children with autism. Early intervention with ABA therapy leads to positive outcomes for these children that are visible into adulthood. 

ASD affects how a person behaves, communicates, engages socially, learns, and lives independently. For a person with ASD, early intervention can help them work on skills that will allow them to enjoy a fuller, more independent life as they get older. While many children are not diagnosed with autism until they are older, autism is often diagnosed between the ages of 18-24 months of age. 

Once a child is diagnosed, intervention with ABA therapy can help support their growth and development, preparing them for school and ensuring they are given the best opportunity possible for successful living. The team at Stride Autism Centers understands the inherent value of getting kids with autism enrolled in ABA therapy as soon as possible. We’ll discuss the importance and benefits of ABA therapy and tell you how you can get started.

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, or “ABA therapy,” a form of interventional behavioral therapy that helps individuals with autism build new skills, gain independence, feel confident in social situations, and regulate emotional and behavioral challenges. Through techniques like positive reinforcement, discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, pivotal response training, and others, children are allowed to “practice” for real life in a safe setting. 

ABA therapy is highly individualized, with each child receiving a plan that is unique to them. Each child’s plan for therapy will include an assessment of their strengths and unique abilities, goal setting, expectations for family involvement, and techniques that will be used for reaching goals. 

In the United States and many countries globally, ABA therapy is considered the primary method of intervention for children and individuals with autism and insurance coverage for the care is mandated in all 50 states. Its usage is heavily researched and shows that it helps children and individuals with autism develop essential skills for life. As such, the sooner a child is exposed to ABA therapy, the more consistent these positive outcomes will remain. 

Why Early Intervention Matters

It may not seem like sending your child to early ABA therapy at such a young age is necessary. After all, many children are diagnosed as toddlers. However, research shows us that the earlier a child is diagnosed and begins to use ABA therapy, the stronger the likelihood of positive outcomes later in life. 

Brain Development

When children are very young, they have a higher level of brain plasticity than they do when they get older. Being able to learn new skills and retain them is more likely in a young child, because their brain is more adaptable. Mastery over skills is more common because the brain itself is still developing.

Reaching Full Potential

Early intervention with ABA therapy helps a child reach their full potential over the long-term. When a child has more time to work on new skills, learn communication methods, and understand social situations better, they will have a greater chance for learning future skills that build on these foundations. 

ABA therapy helps a child work on all aspects of their day to day life, including social structure, communication, independence, behavior, and emotional regulation. Young children can begin work on these skills early which can help prepare them for childhood and adolescence, as well as adulthood.

The Benefits of Starting ABA Therapy Early

Because autism exists on a spectrum, each child with autism will have varying levels of needs. Each child with autism will have unique abilities and goals that can be addressed with varying ABA therapy techniques. Early starts in ABA therapy benefit children with autism in many different areas of their lives. 

Improved Communication Skills

Some children who enter ABA therapy may have limited verbal skills or be non-verbal. ABA therapy focuses on addressing communications issues by offering children with autism space to make words as they are able, and introducing alternative methods of communication, as applicable, like body language, picture exchanges, and the use of electronic communication devices. 

Enhanced Social Skills

Engaging socially can be difficult for children with autism. ABA therapy, especially in center-based programs, introduces children to social situations through playtime with other children and through one-on-one therapy sessions to help them understand social cues, relationship building, and interaction with their peers. 

This method of early intervention works well for children with autism because it allows them to choose different responses to social situations without experiencing negative consequences they might experience in a less supportive real-world setting. Providing a safe and positive space for children to learn social interaction can help them feel more secure and gives them the ability to learn on their own terms. 

Better Behavior Management

Positive reinforcement is a foundational aspect of ABA therapy and one of the primary methods of behavior modification. Through the use of positive reinforcement, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) will help your child through behavioral challenges by encouraging positive behaviors. Through this process, your child learns to use the positive behaviors for which they are rewarded, and unfavorable behaviors are naturally diminished. 

Greater Independence

Parents are often concerned that their children with autism may never be able to complete tasks independently. With early intervention in ABA therapy, children learn to complete tasks by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. For instance, going to the restroom independently can be broken down into tasks like recognizing the urge to go to the bathroom, walking to the bathroom, using the toilet, washing hands, drying hands, etc. 

As a child masters each individual task, they build toward the ultimate goal of mastering the task in its entirety. Learning how to break down large tasks into smaller tasks helps set a foundation that fosters more independence as a child grows. 

These benefits help children with autism thrive at their age, but they also set the course for positive, long-term outcomes.

The Impact of ABA on Long-Term Outcomes

All parents worry over developmental milestones, and as a parent of a child with autism, you’re probably very aware of your child’s growth and development. Early intervention with ABA therapy helps children with autism reach developmental milestones that they may struggle with, or may have missed altogether. 

Early intervention with ABA therapy sets the course for future learning and development in a child’s life, encouraging school readiness, the ability to engage in social situations, and live a more independent life.  

Each child’s journey is unique and early intervention provides the best foundation for future success.

How to Get Started With ABA Therapy

When you are ready to begin your child’s journey into ABA Therapy, the first step will be finding a qualified provider. You can look for providers in your area and schedule interviews and tours to learn more about available facilities. You can also ask friends and neighbors if they have recommendations for ABA therapy providers in your area. 

If your child has not been diagnosed with autism, contact a qualified provider to begin the evaluation process. Your child’s pediatrician may be the first point of contact, but many ABA therapy providers will also be able to perform a full diagnostic evaluation for you. 

When choosing an ABA therapy provider, talk to them about family involvement in the therapy process. It will be important for your family to be able to bring the ABA technique used in your child’s autism center back home to further reinforce them.

Early Intervention is the Key to Success

For children with autism, there is a significant value to beginning early intervention with ABA therapy. Research tells us that children who receive therapy early have more positive outcomes later in life. Early intervention is one of the best ways you can offer support to your child. ABA therapy can make a significant difference that allows your child to thrive. 

At Stride Autism Centers, we focus on helping your child succeed in a way that is fun, engaging, and always safe for them. We encourage family involvement and would love to meet with you to discuss how we can provide ABA for your child. Visit us at any of our locations today, or reach out online to schedule an in-center tour. 

As parents, we want the best for our kids. As a parent of a child with autism, you want to know you’re doing everything you can to set your child up for success. Your child can have a bright future and amazing outcomes from their early involvement and exposure to ABA therapy. 

 

Sources:

Patient Outcomes After Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum Disorder – PMC 

Early Intervention for Autism | NICHD – Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

How Early Can Autism Be Diagnosed?

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Obtaining an autism diagnosis can be difficult. You may suspect your child has autism before their pediatrician expresses concern. Being your young child’s advocate can be a challenge, especially if you are repeatedly told by experts to ignore your concerns. 

Although it can be difficult to diagnose some children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at a very early age (under two years) it is possible. You know your child best, and your concerns deserve to be heard and considered. At Stride Autism Centers, our goal is to partner with you on your child’s journey from diagnosis to therapy and beyond. 

Together, we’ll talk about the early signs of ASD. We’ll also explore why early diagnosis of autism is important and can significantly improve outcomes for your child. Having a foundational understanding of what autism is is essential for helping you better understand its potential impact on your child. 

What Is Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how an individual behaves, communicates, and learns. Autism presents challenges in social skills, independent living, and understanding new concepts. 

The term “spectrum” is included with this disorder because there is a wide variance in the presentation of autism-related symptoms. One person with ASD may be able to communicate verbally, for instance, while some people with autism may remain non-verbal throughout their lives. 

Common Characteristics of Autism

There are numerous characteristics associated with ASD. Some of the most noteworthy include:

  • Problems communicating and interacting with other people.
  • Repetitive behaviors and speech.
  • Limited interests.
  • Inability to maintain a desirable level of independence at home, work, and school.

These difficulties may begin at a very early age, with many parents noticing symptoms in their toddlers. Early detection is important, and a parent’s concerns should never be dismissed without a thorough analysis of their child’s behaviors and development. 

When Can Autism Be Diagnosed?

Research suggests that children may show symptoms of autism as early as 12-18 months of age. As their parent, you know your child’s behaviors best. If you notice patterns or changes in behavior sooner, it’s worth bringing it to your child’s pediatrician. However, it is important to note that developmental milestones can vary dramatically in the first two years of life. It can be difficult to receive a proper diagnosis for a very young child unless they exhibit extremely prominent symptoms. 

Formal diagnosis can occur between 18-24 months of age. Some children may be diagnosed earlier if a particular developmental delay is noted, or if certain milestones are not reached. 

Developmental Milestones To Note

Although missing a developmental milestone does not guarantee an ASD diagnosis, there are some milestones that may lead to a future diagnosis. Keep in mind that milestones vary. If your child doesn’t hit a milestone at exactly the expected age, it does not necessarily mean they will be diagnosed with ASD.

  • Nine month milestones. By nine months of age, children should be able to express emotions like happiness and sadness with smiles and pouts. They should also be able to respond to their names.
  • 12 months of age. By one year of age, children should be able to engage in games like peek-a-boo and patticake. Most children will also be able to use simple words to express themselves or ask for things they need, like water or snacks. 
  • 18 months of age. At 18 months of age children should respond by looking at an object or a person when it is pointed to.
  • 24 months of age. At two years old a child begins to develop empathy, and will notice if another person is happy, hurt, or sad.

If your child has not yet reached these milestones and has exceeded the age for them, it’s a good idea to mention it to their pediatrician. You can also begin to look for early signs your child may have ASD.

Early Signs of Autism

Many parents are concerned that their child will miss a developmental milestone. While missing a milestone can be a sign of autism, there are usually more prominent autism-related symptoms that lead to diagnosing autism in a young child.

Looking For Signs

In babies and toddlers it can be challenging to look for signs of autism. There are, however, some key signs that may indicate a child has autism.

  • Lack of eye contact. Most babies will begin to make eye contact with loved ones or care providers at around three months of age. 
  • Delayed speech. Speech delays do not always indicate autism, but if your child has trouble communicating with words and/or hand gestures by age two, there could be cause for concern.
  • Repetitive actions. Rocking, headbanging, flapping hands, spinning, snapping fingers or repeating words can all be signs of autism. 

These delays and behaviors can occur in children who do not have autism, but if you notice them, it is a good idea to mention it to your child’s pediatrician.

How Autism is Diagnosed in Young Children

Getting an early diagnosis can be extremely beneficial for your child. Typically, a diagnosis of autism starts at your child’s pediatrician. Your child’s pediatrician will screen them for autism at 18-24 months of age. If your child meets certain criteria, their pediatrician may refer you to a developmental pediatrician or to a specialist for a thorough diagnostic evaluation. 

Autism Diagnostic Process

At Stride Autism Centers, we make the diagnostic process easy and comfortable. First, we ask that incoming parents and children fill out a short online screening form. From there, you can expect the diagnostic process at Stride to involve three separate appointments. 

  1. Psychologist and Caregiver interview. At your first appointment, you’ll meet with our psychologist to discuss your child’s developmental milestones, medical history, and voice your concerns. 
  2. Formal Assessment. At your next visit, your child will undergo a formal assessment that includes observation and use of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS®-2). 
  3. Feedback and Recommendations. After our team of developmental psychologists has reviewed the findings of your child’s screening, we’ll meet with you to discuss the results and determine next steps. We will also recommend a treatment plan for helping your child thrive. 

Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) help implement treatment plans to lay a foundation of success for your child. Getting an early diagnosis gives our BCBAs more time to work with your child and help establish positive behaviors that will last for a lifetime. 

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

The early detection of ASD is foundational to an individual’s success. The sooner that resources and techniques like ABA therapy are introduced, the more time your child has to work on new skills, learn effective communication skills, and establish their independence. 

Studies that follow individuals with autism from preschool age through adulthood have shown that early intervention with therapies like ABA help reduce autism symptoms and broadens intellectual ability years after the therapy has been completed. 

What Should Parents Do if They Suspect Autism

If you suspect your child may be showing signs of autism, act now. Bring up your concerns to your child’s pediatrician. It may be helpful to keep a log of developmental milestones that are missed or behaviors and signs you notice. 

If you do not feel you are being heard, consider contacting another professional. Resources are available to help support you and your child, and ensuring early detection is important if your child does indeed have autism. It’s also vital to your ability to help your child thrive to locate and utilize support networks of other families who have children with autism. This can help you avoid feelings of isolation and can help you build a network of support that will benefit both you and your child as they grow.

Early Detection: Important for Long Term Care

Autism may not always be diagnosable in very young children, but it often can be. The earlier you are able to get a child with autism diagnosed, the better chance they have of reducing autism symptoms and enjoying better communication and more independence. Stride Autism Centers is here to support families every step of the way. We can help you get the diagnosis your child needs and offer the ABA therapy and support that will help them thrive. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We can help whether or not your child has been formally diagnosed. We aim to help you understand all that your child is capable of doing and becoming, and it all starts with a visit to one of our conveniently located centers. Let us help you and your child understand their amazing abilities and learn the skills they need to lead a full and enjoyable life. 

 

Sources:

Autism Spectrum Disorder – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) 

When do children usually show symptoms of autism? | NICHD 

Lack of Eye Contact in Autism|Very Well Health 

Psychiatry.org – Understanding Stimming: Repetitive Behaviors with a Purpose 

Early intervention improves long-term outcomes for children with autism | UW News

5 Signs Your Child Might Benefit from ABA Therapy

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a form of behavioral therapy that focuses on positive reinforcement to encourage certain helpful behaviors while diminishing negative behaviors. It also uses other methods, like discrete trial training and natural environment teaching, to help children with autism understand social cues, learn new methods of communication, and develop more independence. 

ABA therapy is considered the foremost intervention method for children with autism. Research suggests that early intervention (at a young age) with ABA therapy provides more positive outcomes for a child through adolescence and into adulthood. If your child has been diagnosed with autism, you may wonder when they will be ready to begin ABA therapy, or if they will actually benefit from it. 

At Stride Autism Centers, our goal is to partner with families to help provide the best chances of positive outcomes for their children, to prepare them for preschool. We’ll explain what ABA therapy is and how it works. We’ll also discuss signs your child may benefit from enrollment in an ABA therapy program. 

Understanding ABA Therapy

ABA therapy encompasses many different techniques to help children with autism better understand the world around them. Therapy plans are highly individualized, with each child being evaluated by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to determine their own unique strengths and areas that are most challenging. 

Through play, one-on-one sessions, and the use of ABA specified tools (like breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable ones) children with autism are able to improve communication, social, behavioral, and daily living skills. 

Even if your child has an autism diagnosis, you may wonder if ABA therapy is right for them. Here, we’ll cover some of the common challenges that ABA therapy helps children with autism overcome.

5 Key Signs Your Child Might Benefit from ABA Therapy

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a range of behavioral, social, and communicative challenges. Because autism is a spectrum of differences in how a child’s brain works, your child’s challenges may be completely unique. Here are some of the issues that ABA therapy most frequently addresses. 

Delayed Communication Skills

Children with autism may struggle with communication. By age two, some children with autism may be non-verbal, or have minimal speech. Children with autism may also struggle to express their needs in a way that their caregivers can understand, and may also find it hard to respond to their name or to call for their attention. ABA therapy helps build functional communication skills – from beginning to request access to things children want and need to becoming conversational – and many children who begin ABA nonverbal are able to make meaningful progress with their ability to express themselves.

Challenges With Social Interaction

Sometimes children with autism struggle to connect with their peers. They may miss important social cues, appear to lack empathy, or find groups of people overwhelming. ABA therapy helps children thrive socially by providing them a safe place to learn and make decisions without the negative consequences they might risk in a real-life setting. 

Additionally, at a center-based program like Stride Autism Centers, other children of similar age and skill are present. Therefore, there are numerous opportunities for social interaction and development of social skills with peers.

Repetitive Behaviors 

Children with autism often repeat behaviors like hand-flapping, rocking, or echoing words and phrases. Engaging in these behaviors may support emotional regulation for individuals with autism. However, certain repetitive behaviors may be excessively disruptive, potentially harmful and can prevent children from participating in the community and school. 

When repetitive behaviors have these important drawbacks, ABA Therapy can be used to help reduce their frequency and encourage more appropriate settings for when they take place.

Difficulty With Transitions and Routines

For a child with autism, change is very difficult. Simply changing the way a morning routine is normally approached can result in an emotional meltdown. If your child struggles with transitions and has extreme reactions to changes in routine that seem small, ABA therapy can help them adapt more easily. 

Aggressive or Self-Injurious Behavior

Not all children with autism will display aggressive or injurious behavior, but some will. Hitting, biting, or actions like scratching, pulling, or pushing can be reduced and managed through the use of ABA therapy. 

If your child displays any of these issues, they can benefit from early exposure to ABA therapy. The sooner your child is able to engage in ABA therapy, the more they’ll be able to utilize the skills they learn in their lives. The benefits of ABA therapy last into adulthood.

Autism Therapy Benefits

For a child with autism, the benefits of interventional therapy not only helps them thrive in childhood, but also helps them prosper into adulthood. 

Improved Communication

Through the principles of ABA, children can develop functional communication skills. While many children in ABA therapy can develop verbal communication skills, alternative communication methods may also be developed. 

For example, the use of body language, picture exchanges, and electronic communication devices, can all help children with autism learn how to communicate more effectively, even if they remain non-verbal. Therapy is tailored to a child’s specific needs to ensure that new communication methods are helpful and effective for them. 

Better Social Skills

One of the key ways that ABA therapy benefits children with autism is how it helps them learn to build relationships, understand social cues, and engage with peers. Through playtime with other children like them, they learn to identify when someone is sad, or happy, and how to respond. Center-based programs are uniquely able to support the development of social skills because other children are present.

Reduced Problem Behaviors

Positive reinforcement is a foundational aspect of ABA therapy. Through the methods of praise and reward, positive behaviors are edified and rewarded. This helps reduce challenging behaviors like aggression, self injury, and tantrums. 

Greater Independence

Ultimately, your child will need to be able to master certain life skills in order to gain independence. ABA therapy helps children with autism gain independence and confidence with tasks like self-care, dressing, and daily activities by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. 

The skills your child learns and works on through ABA therapy are aimed to last through their childhood, and help prepare them for adulthood.

When to Seek ABA Therapy

Many children are diagnosed with autism between 18-24 months of age. Research suggests that “earlier is better” when considering when to enroll your child in ABA therapy. Most ABA therapy providers will see children beginning at age 2. 

If your child has not been diagnosed with autism, but you feel they show some of the signs and behaviors mentioned above, schedule a consultation with your child’s pediatrician or an autism specialist to have a complete diagnostic evaluation performed. It’s always better to know sooner about an autism diagnosis. 

If you have an older child who has autism but has not yet enrolled in ABA therapy, don’t wait. It’s never too late to explore therapy options and get intervention. There are many ways that ABA therapy can benefit your child, and even if you feel your child has “aged-out,” there are providers available to work with them. 

How to Get Started With ABA Therapy

Getting started with ABA therapy takes a little research, but it’s worth the time you’ll spend to find the provider that is right for your child and your family. Autism is a family concern, so look for ABA providers who actively engage family members and caregivers in their treatment approach. Using the techniques your child is exposed to at their therapy sessions at home can help ensure consistency and generalization of the skills across environments. 

When interviewing potential therapy providers, ask plenty of questions. You should feel at home with your therapy provider, and questions about their credentials, experience, and areas of expertise are all valid. Ask potential providers about expectations for family involvement, and whether or not you can attend one-on-one therapy sessions. 

Collaboration with other therapists (like speech pathologists and occupational therapists) is also key to your child’s success. A potential ABA provider should have an outline for how they’ll collaborate and work with your child’s team of professionals. 

It’s also important to consider the location of your therapy provider. Your child will likely spend a lot of time with their therapy provider, so finding a location that is convenient is key. Lastly, find out what time slots are available for the program your child needs. If it doesn’t fit with your schedule, you’ll likely need to find something else.

Reap the Benefits of ABA

Children with autism can benefit from ABA therapy by learning to communicate with others more effectively, adopting positive behaviors, learning emotional regulation, and becoming more independent. These skills extend from childhood into adulthood and help individuals with autism experience more positive outcomes in school and in life.

If you’re considering ABA therapy, contact Stride Autism Centers today. We offer expert guidance, complete evaluations, and personalized ABA therapy plans tailored to each child’s individual needs. We believe that early intervention can make a significant and important difference in a child’s life, and we look forward to helping your child learn to thrive. 

 

 

 

Sources:

Applied behavior analysis treatment of autism: the state of the art | PubMed 

About Autism Spectrum Disorder | CDC.gov 

Is Earlier Better? The Relationship between Age When Starting Early Intervention and Outcomes for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Selective Review | PMC

Sioux Falls Grand Opening

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Stride Autism Centers is thrilled to announce the opening of our newest clinic in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The center is state-of-the-art, with naturalistic activity areas, group instruction classrooms, reading nook, individual therapy rooms, extensive play and sensory equipment, and more.

This opening marks an important milestone for Stride, as it scales access to high-quality preschool ABA therapy services to its fourth state. Demand for ABA services is growing across the country and we decided early on to focus on preschool age children with autism in historically underserved markets.

Sioux Falls was specifically chosen due to the high need for Stride’s medically necessary services throughout the local community. We are thrilled, and honored, to join the Sioux Falls community and hosted an open house on Wednesday, October October 2nd to welcome families exploring ABA for their young children.

If you were not able to make it and are interested in touring our new center, visit our website and click on the “Get Started” button. 

Katie Spellmeyer, Clinic Director of Sioux Falls and South Dakota native, expressed her excitement about the care provided from the new facility: “I am so excited to have aStride Autism Center open in our area! The care and attention Stride provides to kids and their families truly goes above and beyond. Kids thrive at Stride because of the individualized program with loving one-on-one support from highly experienced behavioral experts.”

Katie added, “As part of Stride’s mission to deliver the best possible support, we prioritize involving parents, caregivers, and other specialized services in treatment decisions to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. I couldn’t be more excited that Sioux Falls kids can now access vital early intervention services!”

The Stride clinic is located at 5000 E 57th St Sioux Falls, SD 57108.

Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month: Empowering Lives at Stride Autism Centers

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to foster understanding and celebrate the diverse experiences of those on the autism spectrum. This year, Stride Autism Centers is proud to have been featured in a recent news segment by KCAU-TV in Sioux City, which emphasizes the critical shift from mere awareness to acceptance and understanding.

The segment, part of a broader discussion about the changing perceptions of autism, highlighted the invaluable services provided by Stride Autism Centers and other local organizations committed to supporting autistic individuals and their families.

Jordan Karlson, Clinic Director at Stride Autism Centers, shared insights into the profound impact of early intervention. “With early intervention, we’re able to bridge the gap and get them back to where they should be developmentally,” Karlson noted. This approach not only enhances developmental outcomes but also increases the potential for autistic children to thrive alongside their neurotypical peers in various settings.

Moreover, Haley Devries, a center coordinator at Stride, emphasized our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment: “Every child deserves an opportunity to have the same outcomes in life, neurotypical or not. That’s what we’re here to do—bridge that gap and give them all of the resources and tools so they can go on and live a joyous, empowered life.”

As autism diagnoses continue to rise—with the CDC now reporting that about 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are identified on the spectrum—the need for understanding and proper support has never been more critical. Stride Autism Centers remains dedicated to this cause, providing targeted interventions that aim to enhance the lives of children diagnosed with autism and assist their families in navigating the challenges and joys alike.

This Autism Acceptance Month, we celebrate the strides we have made together as a community and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every individual on the autism spectrum receives the support and recognition they deserve. We thank our families, staff, and the community for their ongoing support and look forward to continuing our work in creating a more inclusive world.

Watch the full segment [here] to learn more about our efforts and the broader impact of Autism Acceptance Month.

Stride Autism Centers Announces Expansion to Broaden Access to Premier Autism Therapy in Nebraska

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Stride Autism Centers (“Stride”), renowned for their evidence-based therapy for children with autism, is proud to announce its expansion across Nebraska. With three successful centers in Omaha and Lincoln, Stride is set to elevate its mission further with two new centers slated to open by March 2024.

The new centers will be located at 400 N 48th St, Suite C1 in Lincoln, and 13808 W Maple Rd, Suite 124 in Omaha, furthering Stride’s commitment to serving more families throughout the Midwest.

Specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, Stride’s clinical team offers the “gold standard” of treatment for children with autism, backed by a solid scientific foundation. Each Stride center dedicates its resources to preschool-aged children (ages 2-6), maintaining a 1:1 therapist-to-child ratio to provide support during the most critical years of early development.

Brad Zelinger, Stride’s Founder and CEO, shares his connection to the mission: “Stride’s mission to provide the best possible support to children with autism and their families is deeply personal to me. My sister has an autism-related disorder called Rett Syndrome. I founded Stride so individuals like her can get the effective therapy they need as early as possible to live more independent, joyous lives. As a Midwesterner myself, I’m particularly driven to extend Stride’s services to underserved communities throughout the Midwest.”

Dr. Ashley Whittington-Barnish, Ph.D., LCP, BCBA-D, NCSP, and Stride’s Chief Clinical Systems Officer, emphasizes the importance of early intervention, citing “Decades of research supporting the efficacy of early intervention for children with autism underpins our decision to specialize in the early treatment of young learners.”

Kristen Cooper Borkenhagen, BCBA, LMFT, and Stride’s Chief Clinical Operations Officer, reflects on the team’s dedication: “We’re grateful that our unwavering dedication to the highest quality care has enabled us to attract exceptional clinical leaders and therapists alike.”

About Stride Autism Centers

Stride Autism Centers is a mission-driven organization dedicated to providing evidence-based ABA therapy to children with autism. With multiple locations across Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, Stride’s full-day program is designed to foster communication, emotional regulation, school readiness, social skills, and transition skills.

For more information, give us a call at 312-554-5578 (Illinois) or 515-207-5251 (Iowa and Nebraska), or send us a message.

Interested in making a difference? Visit Stride Careers for current opportunities.

Sioux City Clinic Open House – Thursday, November 16 @ 4:30PM

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

When: Thursday, November 16, 2023
Time: 4:30 – 7:00 PM
Address: 4280 Sergeant Rd, Ste #230 Sioux City, IA 51106

[dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fe%2Fstride-autism-centers-sioux-city-clinic-open-house-tickets-730551337717%3Faff%3Doddtdtcreator|target:_blank” size=”big”]Reserve Your Spot[/dt_default_button]

Stride Autism Centers is excited to announce that we have opened our newest clinic in Sioux City, IA and we are celebrating with an open house for the Sioux City community!

Stride’s center-based ABA Therapy program for preschoolers (ages 2-6) helps prepare children with autism for kindergarten and beyond. The open house will provide information about ABA therapy, Stride’s program and let you walk through a day in the life of the children we serve with a tour of our clinic. We will have certified clinicians on site to guide you through our clinic and answer any questions you may have about ABA therapy and Stride Autism Centers. Children are welcome to join this fun and informational event!

  • Appetizers
  • Free on-site autism screenings for children under the age of 6
  • Informations sessions on Autism and ABA Therapy
  • Stride’s full-day program is covered by IA and NE Medicaid as well as most commercial insurances

Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month With Our Team at Stride

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

All April long, people across the country have been celebrating Autism Acceptance Month (formerly called Autism Awareness Month). As the month comes to a close, we thought it would be an ideal time to remind ourselves why this commemoration is important — and how we can improve it for the Autistic people in our lives.

Small changes can make a big difference

In honor, celebration, and acceptance of the clients and families we serve, Stride’s Clinical Team wants to provide some additional information as you may plan celebrations this month.

  • Acceptance vs. awareness — We now celebrate April as Autism Acceptance Month. Autistic individuals and advocates use this updated language because “awareness” puts the focus on non-autistic individuals and providing those individuals with information. “Acceptance,” on the other hand, focuses on tangible, actionable steps to promote inclusive and equitable environments. More information from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) can be found here.
  • Autistic vs. with autism — Many individuals and families prefer the term Autistic (rather than “with autism”). It’s important to center ideas showing that individuals know what is best for them. This focuses on treating Autistic individuals with autonomy and respect, which is central to the neurodiversity movement: “nothing about us without us.” In the spirit of that movement, we encourage you to review Autistic writer Alaina Leary’s ideas and actionable steps here.
  • Puzzle vs. other symbols — Symbols used to represent autism — especially during Autism Acceptance Month each April — often include puzzle pieces. This perpetuates the idea that Autistic individuals are “puzzling” and incomplete. If you want to use symbols, we encourage using those accepted by the Autistic community, including the infinity symbol in rainbow (to reflect the diversity of individuals) or gold (Au is the beginning of ‘Autism’ and the abbreviation for gold on the periodic table).
  • Blue vs. red — Historically, blue was used as the color for autism. This has been harmful to the Autistic community for a number of reasons. In fact, it was first chosen because autism is more commonly diagnosed in boys. Autistic people have a movement #REDinstead. Currently, the Autistic community encourages using red, rainbow, and gold.

Getting involved in Autism Acceptance Month

If you want to support autism-focused organizations, we recommend local organizations or those run by Autistic individuals. One such national organization is the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN).

Finally, we at Stride recognize and acknowledge that some folks may have used some of the language and symbols above with very good intentions. We encourage everyone to explore information on what is being said by the Autistic community and reframe practices to emphasize Autism Acceptance, both in April and beyond.

If you want more information or you want to explore our program for Autistic kids ages 2–6, get in touch.

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