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Category: Parents

Is My 2-Year-Old Showing Signs of Autism? A Parent’s Guide

Posted on by webfx

If you’ve been wondering whether your 2-year-old may be showing signs of autism, you’re not alone. Many parents notice small differences in communication, play, or social interaction during the toddler years — and paying attention to those early signs can help your child access support sooner. Stride Autism Centers® has compiled a guide to help you identify the first signs, validate your feelings, and organize your observations.

Why Early Autism Screening Matters at Age 2

The 18- to 24-month period is a time of growth in social and communication skills for children, making it a critical window for observation. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a universal autism screening during this time to identify developmental delays, including autism. Early detection and intervention can lead to the best possible long-term outcomes for young children.

Early Signs of Autism in 2-Year-Olds: A Parent’s Guide

While this is not a diagnostic tool, this guide outlines some of the most common early signs of autism and developmental differences in children around age 2.

Social and Emotional Signs

Here are some early signs that are associated with autism:

  • Don’t share smiles or other joyful expressions with you
  • Show little interest in play with or near other children
  • Have difficulty making or holding eye contact
  • Rarely responds to their name

Communication and Language Signs

If you notice these signs, your child may have some communication and language delays:

  • Doesn’t use two-word phrases by 24 months
  • Loses words or skills they once had
  • Doesn’t point at things to show interest
  • Repeats words or phrases (sometimes called echolalia)

Behavioral Signs

Look out for restricted or repetitive behaviors, including:

  • Lining up toys or objects and getting upset when the order is changed
  • Showing an intense interest in specific topics or objects
  • Following very specific routines and having difficulty with change
  • Engaging in repetitive movements, like hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning

Parents are often the first to notice when something feels different in their child’s development — and trusting those instincts matters. Every child develops differently, and showing one or even several of these signs does not automatically mean your child is autistic. But if you have concerns, it’s always worth discussing them with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist.

Finding the Right Support

If your child is showing autism signs and symptoms as a 2-year-old, the next step is to seek a professional evaluation. An early diagnosis can open the door to proven therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

At Stride, we offer an up to full-day ABA program for children aged 2-6 using a play-based, naturalistic ABA approach designed to build communication, social, and daily living skills in ways that feel meaningful and engaging for young children. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:

  • One-on-one therapy sessions with an experienced, dedicated therapist
  • Focus on building foundational communication, social, and daily living skills
  • A collaborative approach where parents are involved in their child’s progress

Research consistently shows that early intervention can improve communication, social interaction, and daily living skills for many children with autism. With the right support, many children make meaningful progress, build confidence, and continue developing important life skills over time.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Stride is here to partner with you and help your child thrive. Reach out to a Stride location near you to learn about next steps, including how to secure a diagnostic evaluation in your area, support services, and early intervention options. 

You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone

Autism Acceptance: Reflections from Our Families on Milestones that Matter

Posted on by Whitney Jones

During Autism Acceptance Month, there’s often a lot of focus on awareness—learning the signs, understanding a diagnosis, recognizing differences. That matters. It’s where many journeys begin.

But for the families we work with every day, acceptance goes deeper than awareness.

It shows up in everyday moments. In the way a child is supported, understood, and given the space to grow in ways that feel right for them, not defined by anyone else.

This month, we asked a few families to share moments they’re proud of. Not just the big milestones, but the ones that reflect real progress, the kind that changes how daily life feels. What they shared was a powerful reminder: acceptance is often found in moments that might seem small from the outside, but mean everything to a family.

For one family, it looked like connection.

Luis, whose son Noah attends our Chicago – South Loop center, shared how meaningful it was to see Noah begin engaging with other children. As an only child, those interactions didn’t come easily at first. But over time, with goals that built gradually, Noah started to warm up to his peers in a way that felt safe and manageable.

“They gave goals that progressively worked up to him warming up to his peers, in a way that wasn’t too extreme,” Luis shared.

That progress wasn’t just about playing alongside other kids. It shifted how Luis feels about what’s ahead, especially with school on the horizon.

“It was a positive experience… I feel more confident in the future steps Noah will have to take when it’s time for him to go to school.”

Another family reflected on the importance of communication and a growing sense of independence.

Dalia shared that her son Isaiah had been working toward two important goals: communicating more effectively and becoming potty-trained. Both mattered not just for daily routines, but for Isaiah’s independence and confidence.

Before, difficulty communicating often led to frustration and challenging behaviors. As his communication improved, those moments became less frequent. In their place came something new: more clarity, more confidence, and the ability to express what he needed.

“He is truly a completely different child from when he first started,” Dalia shared.

That kind of progress didn’t happen overnight. It came from consistency and from a strong partnership, including regular parent training, open communication, and alignment between what was happening in sessions and at home.

“This made a significant difference because it allowed us to stay aligned on goals and strategies both in sessions and at home.”

When Isaiah reached these milestones, the impact was immediate.

“For Isaiah, being able to communicate his needs… has helped him feel more confident and less frustrated,” Dalia shared. “For me, it brings great happiness and peace knowing that he can now express himself.”

Stories like these are a reminder that acceptance starts with seeing a child as they are today, while still holding belief in who they can become.

That’s built over time, through small steps, consistency, and trust between families and care teams working toward the same goals.

At Stride, we see every day that progress looks different for every child. Sometimes it’s a first word. Sometimes it’s joining a group. Sometimes it’s a moment of independence that changes how a family experiences daily life.

Autism Acceptance Month gives us a reason to pause and recognize those moments and each milestone. Not because they’re big or small, but because they matter.

Because acceptance isn’t just about making space. It’s about seeing each child for who they are today, and supporting their growth on their terms, in their own time.

What Autism Acceptance Really Means (and Why It Matters More Than Awareness)

Posted on by Whitney Jones

During Autism Awareness Month, the world gets a little louder. You’ll see more blue lights, more social media posts, and more resources than usual. Awareness is important because it’s where the conversation starts.

But for the families we work with every day, awareness is just the baseline. We hear it in conversations with parents all the time.

At Stride, we’ve seen that the real breakthroughs don’t happen when people simply recognize autism. They happen when we move toward something much deeper: acceptance, inclusion, and intentional action. It’s the difference between knowing a child is in the room and making sure that child feels like the room was built for them, too.

Awareness vs. Acceptance: Closing the Gap

Awareness is knowing the terminology and recognizing the signs. But acceptance means embracing a child exactly as they are today, then adjusting the environment around them so they can actually succeed.

  • Awareness says, “I see that you communicate and think differently.”
  • Acceptance says, “I’m going to learn your language and your world so we can truly connect.”

In short: Awareness says, “I see you.” Acceptance says, “You belong here.”

What Acceptance Looks Like on a Tuesday Morning

Acceptance lives in the small, quiet moments of daily life.

  • At Home: It’s a parent letting go of traditional “milestone” timelines and finding genuine joy in the progress their child is making. It’s about shifting expectations to meet the child’s reality, rather than the other way around.
  • In the Clinic: At Stride, acceptance is our starting line. We don’t try to fit children into a pre-made mold. Sometimes, that looks like meeting a child exactly where they are. If a child learns best through movement or specific interests, we follow their lead. 

For example, we recently worked with a child who would only engage by lining up toy cars – same color, same order, every time. Instead of redirecting, our team joined him there and that became the doorway to communication.

  • In the Community: It’s the neighbor who offers a smile instead of a stare, or the pediatrician who talks to the child, not just about them. Or kids who make room and offer an invitation to join in the game. These moments might seem small, but for a family, they feel like everything.

Why the Shift to Acceptance Changes Lives

When we move from simply knowing to truly accepting, it changes the trajectory for a child.

It creates a sense of safety and confidence. When a child feels understood rather than monitored, they’re more likely to branch out. Confidence grows when a child knows they are valued for their perspective, not judged for their challenges. They can be themselves.

It makes the journey feel less isolating for families. The path following a diagnosis can feel incredibly isolating. When a community practices true acceptance, it tells parents: You aren’t alone, and your child’s differences aren’t something we’re just tolerating—you all belong.

And importantly, it leads to real progress. We see the proof in our data, but more importantly, in our hallways. When care is compassionate and individualized, kids thrive. In fact, 98% of Stride parents report an improvement in their child’s ability to initiate communication. That’s not just a statistic; that’s the power of a child feeling empowered to speak up because they know they’ll be heard.

Modern ABA: Supporting the Whole Child

There’s a lot of old-school thinking out there about what therapy looks like. At Stride, our approach to ABA is rooted in honoring individuality. We focus on:

  • Building functional communication (giving a child a voice).
  • Supporting independence (giving a child agency).
  • Celebrating unique strengths (giving a child pride).

It’s never about changing who a child is. It’s about giving them the tools to navigate a complex world on their own terms.

From Acceptance to Action: How to Help

Creating an inclusive world is a team effort. Here’s how we can all move past “awareness” this month:

  • For Families: Trust your gut, advocate fiercely for your child’s unique needs, and celebrate every win—no matter how small it might seem to others.
  • For Educators & Providers: Listen to parents. They are the experts on their children. Aim for flexible, collaborative care that prioritizes the child’s dignity.
  • For the Rest of Us: Normalize differences. Be flexible. If you see a child struggling or playing differently, lead with kindness and curiosity instead of judgment.

The Power of Being Understood

We see the impact of acceptance every single day. It’s in the look of relief on a parent’s face when they realize our therapists really understand their child. It’s in the moment a child tries a new word because they finally feel safe enough to fail.

Awareness is the first step, but acceptance is the goal. When we move toward action, we don’t just “recognize” autism—we make the world bigger for the people who live with it.

How to Choose the Right ABA Program for Your Child: An Objective Parent’s Guide

Posted on by WebFX Support

When your child is newly diagnosed with autism, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is where to begin therapy. For many families, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is recommended as an evidence-based approach to help children build communication, social, and learning skills.

But as you start researching, you’ll quickly realize something: not all ABA programs are the same.

Some offer in-home therapy, while others provide center-based programs designed for early learners. Both can be effective but quality, philosophy, and experience vary widely. Choosing the right provider isn’t about finding the first one with availability; it’s about finding the one that’s right for your child and family.

This guide will help you know what to ask, what to look for, and what red flags to avoid so you can make an informed, confident decision.

1. Accreditation and Clinical Oversight

Accreditation is one of the strongest indicators that an ABA program meets rigorous standards of care and ethics. In the U.S., the Autism Commision on Quality (ACQ) is widely recognized as the highest standard of accreditation for autism service providers.

Earning ACQ accreditation means a provider has undergone a detailed external review, evaluating everything from treatment outcomes and supervision to staff training, safety, and family satisfaction. Only a small percentage of ABA providers hold this distinction.

Ask:

  • Is your center ACQ-accredited or working toward it?
  • Who oversees my child’s treatment plan: a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or another credentialed clinician?
  • How often will my child’s program be reviewed and updated?

Look for: organizations that clearly describe their accreditation process and oversight model and that are proud to meet measurable quality standards.

Red flag: vague answers, unfamiliarity with ACQ, or reluctance to share outcome data.

Dig in further: How to Choose the Right ABA Therapy Provider offers more on evaluating credentials.

2. Staff Training, Supervision, and Retention

Your child’s therapy team typically includes two key roles:

  • A Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): who designs and oversees your child’s individualized program.
  • A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): who works directly with your child each day to put that plan into action.

In a high-quality ABA program, these two roles are closely connected, not siloed. Every family should have a dedicated BCBA who is deeply involved in their child’s day-to-day progress, provides hands-on training to RBTs, and is accessible for regular communication.

Ask:

  • Will a BCBA be assigned specifically to my child?
  • How often will I meet or speak 1:1 with them?
  • How do they support and train the RBT working with my child?
  • Do they take time to understand our family values and which goals are most meaningful?
  • Are they flexible and willing to meet our family and child where we are?

Look for: programs where BCBAs observe sessions regularly, meet with parents often, and coach therapists directly. That collaboration keeps therapy individualized and effective.

Tip: Ask how new RBTs are trained, how feedback is given, and how supervision works week-to-week. A strong BCBA–RBT partnership ensures quality and prevents turnover, creating stability for your child.

Red flag: limited BCBA access, infrequent supervision, or uncertainty about who your main point of contact is.

3. Individualized, Data-Driven Care

Every child with autism is unique, and therapy should reflect that. Strong ABA programs build individualized plans based on assessments, then adjust those plans using daily data collection.

Ask:

  • How are my child’s goals created and updated?
  • How do you involve families in goal-setting?
  • How frequently do you review progress data?

Look for: a provider who welcomes your input and can show objective progress tracking.

Red flag: identical lesson plans for all children or vague progress reports.

4. Staff-to-Child Ratios

For early learners (ages 2–6), individualized attention is key. Many high-quality programs maintain 1:1 support for intensive instruction and introduce small-group sessions for social learning.

Ask:

  • What’s your typical staff-to-child ratio?
  • How are groups supervised during transitions or play?

Low ratios promote consistent learning, safety, and meaningful connections.

5. Environment and Learning Space

Children thrive in spaces that feel safe, cheerful, and structured. When possible, visit the center in person to see how it feels.

Ask:

  • What does a typical day look like here?
  • Do you have outdoor or sensory-friendly spaces?
  • How do you balance structured teaching with play?

Look for: organized, bright, and welcoming spaces where children and staff seem happy.

Explore how schedule length affects progress in Full-Day vs. Partial-Day ABA Therapy.

6. Collaboration with Schools and Other Providers

The best ABA programs treat therapy as part of a larger system of support. Your child’s team might include teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, or pediatricians.

Ask:

  • How do you coordinate with my child’s other providers?
  • Do you offer parent training or progress meetings?

Providers who take a whole-child approach ensure consistent strategies across home, school, and community settings.

7. Mission and Motivation

Behind every high-quality program is a clear “why.” Asking about an organization’s origins and philosophy can reveal a lot about its culture.

Ask:

  • What inspired the creation of this organization?
  • How do you define success for the children you serve?

Look for sincerity, empathy, and alignment with your family’s values.

8. Waitlists and Accessibility

Demand for ABA therapy is high, so availability varies. Transparency about timelines and intake processes is a good sign.

Ask:

  • How long is your waitlist?
  • How do you prioritize families?
  • Are resources available while we wait?

If you’re still awaiting a diagnosis or starting the process, see Why Seeking an Autism Evaluation Early Matters.

9. Additional Practical Considerations

Beyond credentials and ratios, a few other factors can make a major difference:

  • Therapy hours: Does the center offer full-day or half-day options that fit your child’s needs? (See Full-Day vs. Partial-Day ABA Therapy.)
  • Parent involvement: Are families encouraged to observe sessions, attend meetings, or receive training? (See How to Prepare for ABA Therapy.)
  • Age focus: Programs built for early learners (ages 2–6) often provide the most comprehensive, center-based models.
  • Atmosphere: Does the clinic feel calm, joyful, and child-centered?

10. Outcomes That Matter

Not all ABA programs measure outcomes in the same way or share them transparently. Yet outcomes are what matter most: real, measurable progress toward your child’s goals.

Ask:

  • How do you define and track progress?
  • Do you measure developmental gains against national benchmarks?
  • How often do you share outcome data with families?

Look for: providers who not only collect data but also evaluate it over time to ensure your child is truly learning and thriving. Transparent outcome reporting signals accountability and confidence in their clinical model.

For context, Stride’s results significantly outperform national averages:

  • Stride children achieve 100% greater gains under moderate-intensity ABA and 80% greater gains under high-intensity ABA compared with CASP (the national industry benchmark).
  • 98% of parents report meaningful improvement in their child’s ability to initiate communication, one of the most important early-childhood milestones.

Red flag: vague answers about outcomes, or a reluctance to share data. Meaningful progress should be visible and celebrated.

11. Specialization and Focus

Some providers offer every service under the sun, from in-home sessions to teen programs. Breadth isn’t always a sign of quality. In fact, specialization often drives better outcomes, especially for young children learning foundational skills.

Ask:

  • What age group or population do you specialize in?
  • How does your program design reflect that focus?
  • Do you tailor your environment and teaching methods for early learners?

Look for: a provider whose expertise clearly aligns with your child’s developmental stage. For example, if you know center-based ABA for preschoolers is the right fit, seek out a program built specifically for that model, where staff, curriculum, and environment are all optimized for early learning.

Red flag: programs that serve “all ages and needs” without clear specialization. The best providers know who they serve best and structure everything around that.

12. Create a Comparison Scorecard

As you visit or interview providers, track what you learn. A simple chart can help:

Seeing everything side by side can turn an emotional decision into an informed one and help you choose a program that truly aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an ABA provider is one of the most meaningful decisions your family will make. The right fit combines clinical excellence, compassionate care, and transparency where your child is known as an individual and progress is both measured and celebrated.

Visit several programs, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The best ABA centers make that trust easy to feel.

For more guidance on evaluating options and preparing for therapy, you may also enjoy:

Finally, spend time on Google reviews to see what actual customers (families) say about  their experience and if/how their child met their goals. The best source of information is always other families.

Navigating Medicaid and ABA Therapy in Nebraska — What Parents Need to Know

Posted on by WebFX Support
Finding the right support for your child with autism can feel overwhelming, especially as Nebraska’s Medicaid rules for ABA therapy continue to change. If you’re worried about how these updates might affect your family’s access to care, we are here to help. We’ve broken down the latest changes to Medicaid and ABA therapy in Nebraska, what this means for your child’s therapy, and how you can continue to access the support your kiddo deserves. We’ll also suggest alternative funding options and show you how Stride Autism Centers® can help your family thrive.

Understanding the New Nebraska Medicaid and ABA Therapy Rules

Recent changes to Nebraska’s Medicaid program have reshaped how families can access and afford Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism. These updates were designed to bring Nebraska’s reimbursement rates in line with neighboring states, but they also mean families and providers are facing new challenges. Understanding these changes is the first step in making informed decisions about your child’s care. Here’s a snapshot of what parents need to know when navigating Medicaid and ABA in Nebraska:
  • The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has lowered reimbursement rates for ABA therapy, effective August 1, 2025.
  • Reimbursement for direct therapy by behavior technicians is cut by 48%, the parent training payment drops by 51%, and care plan and protocol adjustments by Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) are reduced by 37%. Additionally, payments for treatment assessment development are reduced by 28%.
  • Cuts to the Nebraska Medicaid rates for ABA services have affected certain providers, making it harder for some clinics to operate at their previous capacity.
Funding reductions may affect the amount of support you receive for your child’s therapy. Lawmakers and advocacy groups are actively reviewing the impact of these changes on families and providers.

How These Changes Impact Services and Financial Support

The new Medicaid rules have immediate and noticeable effects on the availability and quality of ABA therapy in Nebraska. Families may need to adjust their expectations and explore new ways to secure the support their children need. The impact will likely be felt in the following ways:
  • Reduced therapy hours: Some children may receive fewer hours of therapy each week due to funding constraints.
  • Longer waitlists: With fewer resources, providers may have to limit new enrollments, leading to longer wait times for services.
  • Loss of services: In some cases, families may lose access to their preferred provider or have to travel farther for care.

Importance of ABA Therapy

Consistent, high-quality ABA therapy is a cornerstone of early intervention for children with autism. Consistent, high-quality ABA therapy is a cornerstone of early intervention for children with autism. Even as funding and access change, the benefits of ABA remain clear and essential for your child’s growth and development.

Stronger Social and Communication Skills

ABA therapy helps children with autism build stronger social and communication skills by teaching them how to express their needs, understand social cues, and interact effectively with peers and adults. Through structured social skills training, your kiddo can learn to navigate conversations, share, take turns, and respond appropriately in different situations. This support reduces feelings of isolation by helping children form meaningful connections and relationships and sets the stage for greater confidence and participation in everyday life.

Enhanced Emotional Regulation Skills

Kids learn valuable strategies for managing frustration, anxiety, and other strong emotions. By learning how to regulate their feelings, children with autism may experience fewer meltdowns and be better able to participate in daily activities at home, school, and in the community. This improved emotional regulation helps them feel more confident and comfortable as they navigate new situations and challenges.

Increased Independence

ABA therapy helps kiddos build important self-care, daily living, and problem-solving skills that empower them to become more independent. As they master these abilities, they gain confidence and autonomy. This makes it easier to participate in routines and challenges at home, in school, and within their community. Increased independence supports overall growth to help your child thrive in everyday life.

Enhanced School Readiness

Early ABA intervention helps prepare your child for the routines and expectations of kindergarten and beyond. Through therapy, they will learn important skills through joyful experiences. This includes following instructions, taking turns, and staying on task — all foundational abilities that make it easier for your little one to adjust to classroom environments and thrive in their early school years.

Family Empowerment

A mission-driven ABA program committed to achieving meaningful outcomes empowers your family with training support so you can reinforce positive behaviors at home. This easy, stress-free guidance makes you, as the parents or caregivers, active partners in your child’s progress for a more consistent and supportive environment. As a result, children with autism achieve developmental gains and numerous victories that bring you both joy.

A Customized Approach Tailored to Your Child’s Needs

ABA therapy is a customized approach based on your child’s unique strengths and focal areas. Each program is individualized, which allows therapy to fit the specific areas where your child needs the most support. Through ongoing assessment and regular adjustments, your child’s goals remain relevant and achievable, helping them make steady progress over time.

Alternative Financial Options for ABA Therapy

If the changes to Medicaid and ABA therapy in Nebraska have affected your family’s access to therapy, there are still ways to secure support. Exploring alternative funding options can help bridge the gap and keep your child’s progress on track.

Leverage Private Health Insurance

If you have private health insurance, explore whether your plan covers ABA for your child. Many insurance policies now include autism benefits, and understanding the details can help you make the most of your coverage. As you review your insurance policy to see if ABA therapy is covered, be sure to ask your insurer about pre-authorization requirements and the documentation needed for ABA coverage.

Find Grants and Nonprofit Support

You may be able to apply for financial assistance through national and local grants and nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting children with autism. These resources can help cover the costs of therapy and related services. Consider the following options as you explore additional support: Organizations to explore include Autism Care Today and United Healthcare Children’s Foundation. Application processes vary, so check each organization’s website for eligibility and deadlines.

Discuss Payment Plans With Providers

If insurance or grants don’t fully cover the cost of ABA therapy, your ABA center can open up flexible options that fit your budget. Some ABA centers offer flexible payment plans or sliding-scale fees for families paying out of pocket. Don’t hesitate to discuss your financial situation — many providers are happy to work with families to ensure continuity of care. Ask providers about their private pay rates, available discounts, and payment schedule options.

How Stride Autism Centers® Can Help

Stride Autism Centers® is committed to helping your family navigate Medicaid and ABA in Nebraska so you can continue accessing high-quality therapy. Children with autism who receive appropriate ABA therapy early in life often require fewer services as they get older, making it a cost-effective approach for insurance companies in the long run. Our team is aware of the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to support you by:
  • Helping you explore all available insurance options, including Medicaid, private insurance, and alternative funding sources.
  • Guiding you through the process of applying for grants or setting up payment plans.
  • Providing evidence-based ABA programs designed to meet your child’s unique needs, with a focus on social skills, independence, and school readiness.
Our goal is to empower your family and help your child thrive, no matter what changes come your way.

Discover How Stride Autism Centers® Can Help Your Child Thrive

Discover How Stride Autism Centers® Can Help Your Child Thrive- Get Started No matter how the State of Nebraska Medicaid and ABA services rules change, your child’s potential remains limitless. Stride Autism Centers® is here to help you navigate every step of the journey — from understanding your funding options to providing compassionate, evidence-based ABA therapy. There is no need to let uncertainty stand in the way of your child’s progress. Call our caring, experienced team at 515-207-5251 or connect with us online to see how we can help your family access the support you need so your kiddo thrives.

Potty Training Help for Kids with Autism: 7 Tips for Parents

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

It’s no secret, potty training any child is rarely easy. However, if you are a parent of a child with autism, you may find that you need additional patience and some research-backed strategies to help your child master this life skill. 

Even though potty training is challenging, you can alleviate the stress by setting realistic expectations, using some tried-and-true methods for establishing good bathroom habits, and providing a safe and positive space for your child to learn. 

The team at Stride Autism Centers® understands that parents want to get their kids potty trained as soon as possible. We’ll talk about some of the unique challenges children will face during potty training, how to tell if your child is ready, and give you some tips for keeping the experience positive and successful. 

Understanding Unique Challenges

Every child has trouble understanding the concept of using the potty. The toilet can be viewed as something new and scary. Recognizing the sensation of needing to go and requesting to go are very common issues children must overcome to be toilet trained. However, a child with autism will likely have additional challenges with the potty training process.

Sensory Sensitivities

Children with autism often have sensory issues that may make everyday experiences overwhelming and difficult to manage. They may not feel comfortable with the loud flush of the toilet, the cold surface of the toilet seat, or the sensation of pulling their clothing off and on to use the bathroom. 

Communication Difficulty

Children with autism may have difficulty with communication, have a limited vocabulary, challenges getting a communication partner’s attention, or have no functional communication. Communication delays make it harder for your child to tell you when they have the urge to go, or when they do not have to go. 

Resistance to Change

Routines are important for children with autism, but sometimes those routines may make it harder for children to change. Your child may resist the change from wearing a diaper or pull-up to underwear. They may also resist a new addition to the routine that involves going to the bathroom, especially if they don’t like it.

These challenges can make potty training take longer, but with a little extra patience you can ensure the experience doesn’t become unpleasant. If it does, your child could avoid potty training, which could make the concept even harder for them to accept. Here, we’ll share some tips about keeping potty training stress-free, and learning how to celebrate small victories along the way.

7 Tips for Potty Training a Child with Autism

It will take time, but your child can learn to use the potty like their peers. These tips help keep potty training manageable and maybe a little fun, so that neither you nor your child becomes overly frustrated during the process. 

Try to be patient with the process, your child, and yourself! Learning something new takes time and energy. Use these tips to help your child work on this new skill.

1. Begin the Potty Training Journey at Right Time

There’s no specific age to begin potty training, and your child’s readiness may be years before or after another’s. Make sure you wait until you see signs that your child is developmentally ready before you begin the potty training process. 

Stride BCBAs can help work with you on recognizing these signs and working towards readiness! Signs of readiness can include:

  • Staying dry for longer periods of time
  • Very wet diapers when they were recently dry
  • Hiding/finding a quiet place to have a bowel movement
  • Showing interest or curiosity in the bathroom
  • Being able to follow simple instructions or pictures

It’s important to note that staying dry overnight isn’t a requirement to begin potty training. Most children (both children with and without autism) will not have dry nights at the same time they are potty trained during the day. Often this comes months or even years later!

2. Establish a (New) Routine

Your child already has a routine they are used to that involves a diaper and frequent diaper changes. If not, try to change them in the same place (the bathroom if possible) and have them sit on the toilet or start by approaching it. 

Adjusting to a new routine will take time. Children with autism thrive on predictability, so ensuring that your new routine is adopted slowly and then followed regularly is key. 

Make it clear what times you will visit the restroom, and what will be expected when you visit the restroom. Break this down into small, manageable steps. For instance, before breakfast we will visit the bathroom. First, we will pull down our pants, next, we will sit on the potty, etc. 

3. Practice Communication

When you first start toilet training, you will take your child frequently and as initiated by an adult; however, the goal is that they will be able to recognize the need to go and initiate the process independently. This means it’s very important to start to practice communicating about using the potty from the beginning. It’s not important that your child talks, this can be any type of communication. 

The biggest thing is that it will eventually be recognizable to others at home, in the clinic, and even at school. To do this, pair the word/sign/picture card “potty” (or whatever you choose), so your child begins to make the connection between the communication and the event. 

Even if you are initiating a trip to the restroom, still prompt them to say/communicate “potty.” This will help your child make the connection and lay the foundation to generalize this skill. 

4. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids like schedules, charts, or stories can help your child understand the steps involved with using the toilet. A pictorial aid might show that before bedtime, you visit the bathroom. 

Once in the bathroom, you follow certain steps (called a task analysis) to use the toilet and wash hands. These aids can be extremely useful for children who have limited vocabulary. If you have a child who struggles with communication, using a visual tool can also help them learn to better communicate their need to use the bathroom. 

A sign they can point to or a hand gesture they can use to signal their need to go to the restroom can be a wonderful potty training aid. 

5. Use Reinforcement and Rewards

Positive reinforcement is a tool that works well for kids and adults alike. This foundational method helps us learn new skills. 

Using strong reinforcers, things your child most enjoys (e.g., extra iPad time, a special small treat/snack, singing their favorite song) helps them learn more quickly. 

For example, every time your child indicates a need to use the restroom, or completes any small bathroom-related task, be sure to praise and reward them to help motivate them to continue trying. 

6. Address Sensory Issues

Sensory issues can be frustrating for parents and children. Validating and recognizing your child’s sensory issues can help you give them a better environment in which to learn. 

If, for instance, your child does not like the feel of toilet paper against their skin, you can offer an alternative method of cleaning like a bidet or flushable wipes. You can also gradually expose your child to sounds and textures that might be different for them. 

For instance, if loud sounds upset your child, have them step outside the bathroom and explain that you will flush the toilet and it will sound loud. 

Hand dryers in public restrooms can also be overwhelming for many children, so coming up with plans for a different drying method are helpful. You also may want to prepare your child for a loud noise if someone else uses them.

7. Be Patient With Accidents

Accidents are a normal and expected part of the potty training process. Using absorbent underwear or disposable training pants can help you eliminate the frustration often associated with an accident. 

Try your best to be gentle with your child, avoiding punishment and focusing on positive reinforcement instead. Gently remind them that when they feel the need to go and keep practicing communication! 

In addition to these tips, it’s important to make sure your child’s entire team of clinicians and teachers are supporting your efforts. Start communicating with them prior to starting this process, so they can best support you along the way!

Involving Therapist and Educators

When you decide to potty train your child, you’ll want to alert their team of therapists and educators so they can help. If your child is enrolled in ABA therapy, let the Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) who work with them know you are interested and ready to start, so they can work with you to develop plans and support both at home and in another therapy setting. 

Collaboration is key to helping your child become fully immersed in potty training and to help them understand that using the toilet isn’t just an “at home” event. Involving your child’s team of educators and practitioners can not only help support your child, but also support you as you navigate this often stressful phase.

Addressing Setbacks and Regression

Autism toilet training regression can be a normal part of any child’s potty-training journey. A child with autism may experience setbacks and regression more frequently. Setbacks and regressions can be because of new or stressful situations. 

For instance, if your child seems to be fully potty-trained but then begins school, switches therapists, or experiences a major change in their routine, you may notice some potty training regression. 

Stay patient, and remember to continue to encourage communication and use positive reinforcement to encourage those toileting related goals.. Accidents do happen and remember, a setback or regression does not mean that you will have to start from the very beginning, work with your child’s clinician to adjust the plan if needed. 

It’s Time To Go!

Potty training might not sound like a fun task for any parent, but you can help your child be successful with the right tools and support. Establishing a routine, using visual aids, reinforcing positive behaviors and actions, and addressing sensory challenges can give your child the best opportunity to be successful with potty training. 

Be patient, and take it one step at a time. Reach out for help, and remember that setbacks and regressions are normal. For even more help and to have an individualized therapy plan custom-tailored for your child, reach out to Stride Autism Centers®. We’d love to meet with you and discuss how we can help your child thrive. 

 

Sources:

Potty Training Children with Special Needs – HealthyChildren.org 

Review Paper: Routines in Families of Children With Autism|Rehabilitation.USWR.ac 

Potty Training For Autism – The Ultimate Guide|Autism Parenting Magazine 

FAQ Individualized Education Program (IEP) – PACER Center

3 Early Signs of Autism | Why Timely Detection Matters

Posted on by Brad Zelinger

Research published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that early intervention programs can significantly improve communication and social skills in young children diagnosed with autism, helping them reach their full potential. This underscores the importance of recognizing early signs of autism and seeking support as soon as possible.

As a parent, noticing differences in your child’s development can be both confusing and concerning. If your toddler is showing behaviors that seem unusual or delayed compared to same-aged peers, you might wonder if it’s time to seek an autism evaluation. 

Clinic psychologists and developmental pediatricians are often called upon to assess children who show signs of autism. 

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

First, let’s talk about what autism is and what it is not. According to the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT), autism is a neurobehavioral disorder characterized by impairment in reciprocal social interaction and communication, and the presence of repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, and activities. 

Symptom onset typically occurs by 3 years of age and there is a wide range of how autism is expressed which is why we refer to it as a spectrum of disability. Recognizing this diversity and providing tailored resources allows individuals with autism to feel seen, valued, and to thrive. 

Autism is not an intellectual disability. While some autistic individuals may have learning differences or intellectual disability; many have average or above-average intelligence. Autism is part of who they are, and many embrace their identity with pride. For many, autism is considered their superpower. 

Strengths and Talents of Autistic Individuals

Autistic adults who have received services and supports often go on to excel in areas such as:

  • Enhanced Focus and Concentration: The ability to deeply engage with tasks can lead to exceptional productivity and efficiency.
  • Attention to Detail: Having an eye for precision and a strong memory make them invaluable in roles requiring accuracy.
  • Pattern Recognition and Problem-Solving: many autistic people are naturally skilled at recognizing patterns and generating creative solutions.
  • Creativity: unique perspectives and out-of-the-box thinking often result in innovative ideas and artistic expression.

3 Common Early Signs of Autism

Intervening early when your child receives an autism diagnosis makes a tremendous impact on their future potential. But, how do you know what signs to look for and when to request a formal assessment? 

Below are 3 common symptoms of autism among toddlers and young children. 

  1. Speech Delays:
  • Limited babbling or use of gestures in toddlers.
  • Difficulty responding to their name or looking to others seeking conversation 
  • Understanding what is said (receptive communication) while struggling to express themselves (expressive communication).

There is a distinction between speech and language which is important to understand when looking for early signs of autism. Delays in speech are common and tend to be due to auditory processing and/or motor planning challenges. Other children experience delays in functional language development meaning they may have an average or above-average vocabulary, but word choices may not seem appropriate to a situation or conversation. 

While an autistic child may understand the meaning of a vast number of words, they may not be able to properly or sensically express them. This can create extreme and understandable frustration.

  1. Navigating Social Environments:
  • Reduced eye contact or limited back-and-forth play.
  • Less interest in other people or group activities, preferring solitary play.
  • Difficulty adjusting behavior based on social expectations within their cultural context.
  • Difficulty with transitions or flexibility.

It’s important to note that social interactions vary by culture so a child displaying some of the early signs of autism listed above may actually be behaving appropriately given cultural practices they are accustomed to in the home. 

  1. Repetitive Behaviors & Sensory Sensitivities:
  • Often repeating words either immediately after they are said (echolalia) or repeating the same phrase/quote in the same way.
  • Repetitive actions, such as hand-flapping or rocking.
  • Strong reactions to textures, sounds, or lights.
  • Seeking or avoiding sensory input, like covering ears or intensely focusing on specific objects or parts of objects.

One common early sign of autism is echolalia, where a child repeats words or phrases they’ve just heard. While once thought to be meaningless repetition, research shows it can be an adaptive way to communicate and demonstrate intellectual understanding. Recognizing echolalia as a learning strategy can help caregivers better support language development in autistic children.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early autism diagnosis during toddler and young childhood years allows kids to access therapies that can support critical areas like communication, social interaction, and motor skills. Because young children’s brains are still developing, early intervention can have a greater impact on long-term outcomes than starting therapies later in life.

Recent research published by the National Institute of Health supports the significant benefits of early detection including improved cognitive, language, and social-emotional functioning in autistic children. Additionally, parents receiving an early autism diagnosis reported lower stress levels and better access to support services. As with everything in life, it is less scary and stressful once you know what you’re dealing with and can develop a plan.

Developmental Milestones to Watch

Understanding typical developmental milestones can help parents identify potential concerns early. Monitoring progress in areas such as language development, motor skills, and social interaction ensures that delays are recognized and addressed in a timely manner. Parents should stay informed about developmental milestones using trusted resources like the CDC’s milestone tracker and the ASAT Developmental Checklist. 

Here is a handy infographic from Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital that shows milestones from 3 months to 5 years old across several developmental dimensions.

(Image source from: https://www.apolloclinic.com/for-patients/services/consultations/paediatrics/milestones-tracking) 

Diagnostic Process and Professional Evaluations

If you have concerns about your child’s development, seeking a comprehensive autism assessment is a crucial step toward understanding their unique needs. At Stride Autism Centers®, our diagnostic process is designed to provide clarity and support for families.. 

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Initial Consultation: We begin with a detailed discussion to understand your child’s developmental history, behaviors, and any concerns you may have.
  • Comprehensive Evaluation: As the resident licensed clinical psychologist I personally conduct a thorough assessment, which may include standardized tests, observations, and interactions with your child to evaluate various aspects of development.
  • Personalized Feedback: After the evaluation, we provide a comprehensive report outlining your child’s strengths and areas where support may be beneficial. This includes recommendations for interventions or therapies tailored to your child’s specific needs.
  • Ongoing Support: Whether or not an autism diagnosis is made, we guide you toward appropriate resources and support services to help your child thrive.

Early Intervention for Children Diagnosed with Autism

Early intervention programs focus on building essential skills through personalized learning plans. Evidence-based therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy help children improve communication, social interaction, and daily living skills. These therapies work best when caregivers are actively involved, reinforcing new skills at home.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA):

ABA is a structured, evidence-based therapy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage helpful behaviors while reducing those that may interfere with learning. ABA sessions can take place in a clinic or at home, depending on the child’s needs and what works best for the family. 

ABA Goals often include improving communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors like self-care and problem-solving. Stride Autism Centers® offers full-day, ABA therapy in a clinic setting that allows for personalized plans and social skills development to prepare children for elementary school.  

With a high ratio of Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBA) and Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) to students, Stride tailors programs to meet pre-school aged learners where they are to deliver meaningful outcomes. 

Communication & Occupational Therapy:

Speech and communication therapy focus on helping children develop the ability to express themselves effectively, whether through spoken language, sign language, or alternative communication devices. Activities may include practicing vocabulary, articulation, and using visual supports.

Occupational therapy supports motor development and daily life skills like dressing, feeding, and sensory integration. Therapists may engage children in play-based activities that build coordination, fine motor skills, and self-regulation.

Therapies can be accessed through specialized clinics, in-home services, or school-based programs. Many providers offer individualized treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique needs, ensuring comprehensive developmental support.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Taking action early can make a significant difference in your child’s development. Remember that you are not alone—there are many supportive resources are available to guide you through each step of the journey. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s development, consult trusted sources like your physician and organizations like the Association for Science in Autism Treatment. 

Please reach out to us at Stride Autism Centers® for more information about autism assessments or enrolling your child if they are between 2-6 years old and have already received an autism diagnosis.

About the Author:
Dr. Ashley Whittington-Barnish, PhD, LCP, BCBA-D, NCSP

Dr. Whittington-Barnish is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst – Doctoral (BCBA-D), and Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). With over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities, she is passionate about helping children and their families thrive.

As Chief Clinical Systems Officer at Stride Autism Centers®, she leads clinical programs and enjoys seeing clients make meaningful progress. Ashley also teaches at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where her research focuses on staff and caregiver training. She lives in the Chicago area with her family and two dogs.

How to Pick the Right ABA Therapy Provider for Your Child

Posted on by Brad Zelinger
A blue circular icon representing a supportive and holistic approach to learning at Stride Autism Centers® facilities.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a behavioral intervention that helps individuals with autism strengthen social skills, communicate their needs, regulate their emotions and become more independent. 

Research shows that children who receive ABA therapy early in life have more positive outcomes later in life. For children who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), early intervention with ABA therapy can dramatically impact their quality of life for years to come.

Finding the right therapy center is crucial for a child with autism in order to ensure they receive the necessary ABA therapy to thrive. If you’ve been struggling to find the right ABA therapy center in your area, we’re here to help. 

The team at Stride Autism Centers® understands the necessity of combining compassionate care with reliable and convenient programs to help meet each family’s individual needs. We’ll explain what you should consider when choosing your child’s ABA therapy center.

Understanding the Basics of ABA Therapy

ABA therapy, especially with children, is not like a talk therapy session you might attend as an adult. Children engaged in ABA therapy are often playing and learning in their ABA therapy center part time or full time (up to eight hours per day). This means your child will spend a lot of time at their ABA therapy center.

ABA centers are staffed with Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) that work directly with your child on skill development and behavior modification. BCBAs, in collaboration with parents, develop an individualized plan for your child’s therapy. Those plans include goal setting, identifying and monitoring strengths, techniques used, and continual monitoring and adjusting of the plan to ensure that progress is being made as fast as possible. 

Although ABA therapy centers oversee many children, it is vital that therapy sessions and plans are customized to each child. Autism exists on a spectrum, and each child is different. Therefore, unique needs will need to be considered so that your child has the chance to grow and work on new skills as needed. 

The first step in finding the right ABA therapy provider is to do some background research on centers near you. 

Research Potential Providers

Many areas have multiple ABA therapy providers. If you live in a smaller town, start by asking your child’s pediatrician or whomever diagnosed your child about the availability of ABA providers in your area. Once you find a list of providers, there are some research tips that may help you narrow down your list.

Credentials

While there is no degree requirement for ABA therapy providers, it is important to look for centers that employ certified behavior analysts such as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).

In addition, ask who oversees the therapy center. Generally, psychologists oversee clinical operations and program design. While this isn’t a requirement to operate an ABA therapy center, it holds the center to a higher level of accountability and standards.

Experience

ABA therapy is not new, but continued research into neurodivergent children and the positive outcomes that they experience with ABA therapy means the demand for more providers has increased. New facilities can help make ABA therapy accessible to more families, but it is important to determine whether the ABA therapy center you find has experience with children your child’s age. 

If a therapy center primarily works with school-aged children and your child is preschool age, they may not be able to focus on the needs of your child as efficiently as a different facility. 

Look for Referrals

Autism affects approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States. Chances are, you know someone who has a child with autism. Asking for referrals and recommendations from friends and acquaintances who have experience with ABA therapists is a good way to find one you may also want to partner with.

In addition, take time to read through the details of positive reviews on Google. Focus on signs of real progress made by former or current clients—these insights can give you a better understanding of how effective the center is and how satisfied other families have been with their services.

Once you’ve narrowed down the list of providers, you can begin to interview them. The interview process is important, and coming to the table with your own questions can help you avoid confusion later.

Ask the Right Questions

Many ABA therapy centers will provide a free consultation to meet with you and your child. During this time, you’ll tour the facility, learn about the credentials of the clinicians working with your child, and get a feel for the center itself. 

Although the ABA therapy center will have their own presentation, it’s important to have your questions answered. Here are some questions you can ask to better understand how the facility operates.

1. What is your approach to ABA therapy? 

There are varying techniques with ABA therapy (such as discrete trial training (DTT) and positive reinforcement). Understanding which forms a center uses can help you avoid any surprises in the future if you decide to enroll your child. 

2. How do you measure progress and adjust treatment plans? 

It’s important to know how and when treatment plans will be modified, and what role you will play as a parent. It’s also beneficial to know if a center is using technological devices to record and monitor progress or if they use traditional methods like paper note-taking and visual observation. 

3. What qualifications and experience do your therapists have? 

The credentials of the staff members working directly with your children is important. Find out how they are certified and where, and how much experience they have working with children your child’s age. 

4. How do you involve parents in the therapy process? 

As parents, understanding your role means allowing the BCBAs to do their jobs efficiently and allows you to bring home the techniques being used in the center to reinforce them at home. 

Transparency and clear, consistent communication is key to a successful relationship with your child’s ABA therapy center. You should feel like your questions are welcome and answered to the fullest. 

Consider the Provider’s Location and Availability

No matter how much you love a therapy center, if they aren’t available during hours that work for your family’s schedule it will not be a good fit. Likewise, if you find travel to and from the center troublesome, you may want to find a center close to your home or workplace. 

Consistency with ABA therapy is key to success, and missing sessions due to time restrictions and/or travel mishaps can take away from the time your child has to work with their therapist. 

Evaluate the Provider’s Approach to Family Involvement

Autism is a family matter, and a family-based approach to ABA therapy is necessary for being most successful. Ask how a potential ABA center involves family members and what will be expected of the family at home. 

In addition, talk to the personnel about how they collaborate with your child’s other providers. Speech therapists, educators, and occupational therapists can all collaborate with your child’s ABA therapy center to ensure that goals are aligned and that the skills your child is working on are being focused on across the board. 

Lastly, ask about parental involvement during sessions. Some therapy centers have strict policies that do not allow parents to sit in on every session. Also, ask what sessions you will be able to attend and how your feedback will be used to adjust your child’s program goals. 

Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. If you meet with an ABA therapy provider and feel like your questions are being skirted or that the staff aren’t particularly caring, you can look for a different provider. It is vital that both you and your child feel comfortable with the therapy center and staff members so that your child feels safe and free to express themselves fully. 

If you and/or your child don’t like the facility you are visiting, keep searching until you find one that you both love. ABA therapy may last between 3-5 years of your child’s life, so finding a provider that checks all your boxes is important. Keep in mind that finding the right provider may involve interviewing numerous facilities.  

The Right Fit

Finding the right ABA therapy provider may take a little time, but it’s worth your research. Your child’s ABA provider will work with them for a long time, and it’s important that all the metrics (logistics, family involvement, personalities, and credentials) are all considered. 

ABA therapy is the gold standard of treatment for children and individuals with autism, and involving your child in therapy as soon as possible gives them a better chance for successful outcomes as adults. 

At Stride Autism Centers®, we focus on matching you and your child to a BCBA that is right for you both. We combine compassion, ABA techniques, playtime, one-on-one sessions, family involvement, and new technological innovations to create an atmosphere of learning where your child can truly thrive. Contact us today to explore our ABA therapy services. 

 

Sources:

Treatment and Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder | CDC.gov 

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

US Employment Demand for Behavior Analysts: 2010–2023 | BACB

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

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