Leading ABA Therapy Center for Preschool Children with Autism in Chicago, Illinois
Helping your child take their best stride forward.
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What Parents Say About Stride
- Meg S.
“Our son was 4.5 yro when he started Stride. He was not potty trained, didn’t speak functionally, could not communicate what he wanted and would lash out and have meltdowns daily. He is now 5.5 yro and he is fully potty trained, he can ask for what he wants, he can tell you what he doesn’t want. He is getting help with his hand washing fear. They have helped with self care and his ability to stand having his hair cut. He doesn’t have many meltdowns as of late and has stopped lashing out. Stride is amazing, they communicate with us and work with us to help keep things consistent for our son. Highly recommend!”
- Samantha B.
“Since starting at the Center less then 6 months ago, we have seen tremendous growth in our son. With the help of staff we have set specific goals and watched our son reach them. Hearing our son responded with a “yes”, learn his birthday, participate in art activities, and build relationships with the staff brings me so much joy… The best part is how much our son loves Stride and wants to go. I feel truly blessed to have found a ABA Therapy program that provides quality therapy, in every aspect. To say I am likely to referrer someone to Stride is an understatement. Families that have children on the spectrum need a resource like Stride”
- Joslyn T.
“Before coming to Stride we would have long periods of uncontrollable and heartbreaking meltdowns from our daughter who is non-verbal autistic and developmentally delayed… Now in just under a year our daughter is communicating with great nonverbal skills, sign language, and a communication devise! She walks holding hands, sits at a table, will respond to her name, give hugs and has started to give kisses! She can be redirected with little to no frustration and has started potty training!! …I went from fears of how I will ever be able to give her the best life ever to seeing it unfold before me. I cannot thank the wonderful staff at Stride enough for helping my family.”
- Taylor C.
“Stride has been nothing but great since my son has started attending over a year ago. He has done speech therapy since he was 1 but ever since he started ABA Therapy at Stride there has been a night and day difference! My son has continuously grown and has hit all of his goals and is so so smart and has learned so many things… I believe he will be set up to have a great future thanks to the commitment of the staff here… I would recommend Stride to anyone who is looking for services for their child. They go above and beyond for these children… and it shows!”
- Monica J.
“This School is AWESOME!!! My son is 3 yrs old, non verbal and hyper 🙂 … My son was scared to go out of the house and meet new people and from being here he has done a whole 360 willing to play with children and loves the staff. He is just eager to attend school daily which is a big change for a child that is autistic… They have daily report which tell you when your child ate, when they change their diaper, what activities they did and how they felt throughout the day which gives me a piece of mind… Thanks to the CEO that made stride happen I greatly appreciate it from the bottom of my heart ❤️”
- Kate O.
“Recommend this clinic to any and all families with a child diagnosed with Autism. The BCBAs and RBTs are absolutely wonderful and have played such a huge part in our son’s development. He started the program non-speaking and now is verbal, learning 30 + words within 6 months of being at Stride! Truly a great company and organization to collaborate with when supporting your child on the spectrum. Forever grateful they have been apart of our journey!”
- Hannah B.
“Stride has helped my son grow into such an empowered and happily independent child. The level of care the staff provides for all of the children is so heart felt it has brought tears to the eye, they care so much about each and every child in attendance… My son was near nonverbal before starting at Stride, really only involved in side by side play, had a ton of food adversities. He now talks so well, loves playing and interacting with others, and is way more interested in trying new foods… Our entire family is so thankful to have found Stride Autism Centers.”
- Lei A.
“My daughter is excited to go here -which speaks volumes. She has hit every goal that we have set for her. My goals for my daughter before kindergarten were to be fully potty trained and able to tell me how her day was (those who, what, where, when, and why questions). Her goals now are focused on social skills and transitioning. The ABA therapist offered to help with the IEP meeting with the school and even asked to attend the first couple days of school to make sure she does well. THEY CARE and they are patient and friendly. I have already recommended this place to family and friends in need of the services.”
- Crystal H.
“Our 4 year old son began attending Stride almost 5 months ago. He was diagnoses with moderate/severe Autism, and within just the past 5 months his communication, peer interaction, etc. have increased tremendously. We attribute that to the amazing therapists and resources Stride Autism Center offers on a daily basis. He attends 8 hours per day, 5 days per week and it was the best thing we could have ever done for him. I can’t wait to see how much he has grown by this time next year! Thank you to our lead therapist Chelsey and all of the amazing staff with Stride!”
- Jeri M.
“The instructors at Stride are Spectacular at what they do. They have taken my once uncontrollable child and taught transitions between different activities, being around other children without the need to physically attack them and interacting with others in an appropriate manner. They have taught my child to recognize the alphabet, numbers, shapes and colors. My child is not very verbal but they have working the communication device like a wizard. I am so proud of what they have accomplished with my child in a years time.”
- Dijana C.
“The services and support our daughter received while at Stride were life changing for her. She acquired skills that will allow her to live a safe and independent life. She made her first group of friends and met her best friend at Stride. The therapists love these kids and pour everything into them to help them succeed! I couldn’t have asked for a better “family” and support provider for our daughter.”
- Pakou R.
“This ABA center has been a life changer for my girls and me. My daughter has been there for a year now and we have seen her improved drastically. She loves going to Stride and the staffs are very friendly and knowledgeable. We are so thankful to have found a place where our girls can feel safe being themselves and have fun learning and developing new skills. I also like the fact that Stride has security cameras everywhere all their rooms are always open. I would highly recommend this place!”
100%
of families feel the Stride programming was beneficial to their child’s communication skills, play skills, and school readiness
97.8%
of families are likely to recommend Stride to other families
93.5%
of parents feel they are invited to be an active participant in their child’s treatment
97.8%
of parents are comfortable communicating with the Stride team about questions/concerns
Explore Images of Our Chicago ABA Therapy Center
Insurances We Accept
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most widely studied and effective treatment for autism. It is recommended by major American medical associations and the US Surgeon General.
Decades of clinical studies have shown that young children with autism who received intensive ABA therapy demonstrated:
- Larger increases in IQ and adaptive functioning
- Fewer challenging behaviors and social problems
- Increased likelihood of fully joining regular education without assistance
Stride Autism Centers is dedicated to delivering meaningful outcomes for both the learner and their family. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) oversee all aspects of your child’s treatment. It takes rigorous academic study and 2,000 hours of training to become a BCBA, so only those who are deeply committed and capable ultimately earn the credentials to work with your child.
Who We Are
At Stride, we are deeply committed to serving the Chicago community with best-in-class ABA therapy services. Our focus lies in helping children with autism reach their full potential through individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
We understand the unique challenges faced by families seeking support for their children with autism, and our dedicated team is here to provide the compassionate care needed to promote their growth and independence.
ABA Therapy in Chicago
Our program combines the power of both structured one-on-one therapy and naturalistic group activities to create a comprehensive learning experience
One-on-One Therapy
- Individualized goals tailored to each child’s needs
- Focused on self-care, communication, behavior reduction, and more
- Personalized attention to maximize progress
Naturalistic Group Activities
- Emphasis on play and social interactions
- Crucial for school readiness, adolescent development, and adulthood
- Provides opportunities for peer socialization
Group activities offer opportunities for children to socialize with their peers and are uniquely possible within a center-based environment.
Personalized Programs
Each child at Stride receives a highly customized program, meticulously developed by our Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Additionally, the program is overseen by thought leaders in the field of ABA, Clinical Psychologists,
and clinicians with decades of experience to ensure Stride delivers the best possible outcomes for the families we serve.
Discover How Stride Can Make a Difference
We provide comprehensive support and help for your child’s journey. We understand the challenges that families face when seeking the right care and therapy for children with autism. Our team is dedicated to offering expert assistance and empowering your child to reach their full potential through our specialized ABA therapy programs.
Looking for ABA Therapy
in Chicago, IL?
We are proud providers of ABA therapy in Chicago. Our team comprises highly-trained and compassionate professionals, dedicated to your child’s success. At our Chicago center, we specialize in crafting personalized ABA therapy programs that empower children with autism to achieve their potential.
What to Expect
We understand that receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming. At Stride, our team of clinicians is here to support you every step of the way, from understanding the diagnosis to starting an effective therapy program. We are committed to helping you navigate this journey with compassion and expertise.
Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Our Process at Stride:
News & Insights
Navigating the Holidays with Autistic Children
The holidays can be overwhelming for any of us. When a child lives with autism, though, many things can be especially challenging.
Catch Up on Our Free Webinar: A Guide to Autism Diagnosis and Treatment for Caregivers
Did you miss the recent “Orientation to Autism Diagnosis & Treatment” webinar by Stride Autism Centers & Blank Children’s Developmental Center?
Sleeping Strategies for Kids with Autism
Chicago ABA Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy is a scientifically proven, individualized approach that supports children with autism in developing essential life skills. At Stride, ABA Therapy is the cornerstone of our programs. This therapy focuses on understanding behaviors, their triggers, and creating positive change through systematic interventions. Our dedicated therapists work closely with each child to foster communication, social interaction, and adaptive skills, enabling them to navigate the world with confidence.
ABA therapy focuses on building communication skills, developing social skills, and addressing behavioral challenges. Many of Stride’s clients also use ABA to support toilet training and other self-care goals.
Will ABA Help My Child Prepare for Kindergarten?
Absolutely! ABA therapy focuses on developing essential skills, including social skills, communication skills, self-regulation, and pre-academic skills, which are crucial for a successful transition to kindergarten. By nurturing these essential skills, ABA equips your child with the tools they need to engage with peers, follow instructions, and excel in a classroom setting.
When is ABA Therapy Needed?
ABA Therapy is highly recommended for children with autism or related disorders, catering to their unique strengths and challenges. If your child struggles with communication, social interactions, behavior regulation, or self-care skills, ABA Therapy can make a significant difference. Early intervention is key, as ABA can help set a strong foundation for future growth and success.
Stride Autism Centers specializes in supporting preschool children ages 2 through 6, because early intervention is proven to make the biggest positive impact on children. However, ABA can help individuals of all ages.
What Makes Stride Stand Out for Chicago ABA Therapy?
At Stride, we stand out due to our unwavering commitment to excellence and compassionate care. Our team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and dedicated therapists brings expertise and empathy to every session. Our personalized programs, community engagement, and commitment to growth set us apart as Chicago's premier ABA therapy center, dedicated to empowering children with autism and their families.
Stride specializes in supporting preschool children with autism (ages 2-6) in a center-based environment. We combine individualized 1:1 therapy with naturalistic group activities that promote socialization and prepare children for kindergarten and beyond. Additionally, we have an unwavering commitment to evidence-based ABA therapy and focus on collaborating with parents every step of the way.
Is ABA Therapy the Right Choice for My Child in Chicago?
ABA Therapy is a proven choice for children with autism in Chicago seeking meaningful progress. Our personalized approach tailors interventions to your child's unique strengths and challenges. If your child faces difficulties in communication, social interactions, behavior regulation, or adaptive skills, ABA Therapy can provide the tools they need to succeed. Our expert team is here to guide you through this journey, ensuring ABA aligns with your child's needs and your family's goals.
How is ABA Therapy Effective?
ABA therapy's effectiveness lies in its evidence-based principles, data-driven approach, and focus on positive reinforcement. We systematically analyze behaviors, identify their functions, and tailor interventions that encourage positive change. Our approach empowers children to grasp new skills, while also reducing challenging behaviors. Through consistent reinforcement, ABA helps children generalize these skills to various settings, fostering greater independence and improved quality of life.
How Many Hours of ABA Therapy Does My Child Need?
The number of recommended ABA therapy hours varies for each child. We collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, considering factors like age, skill level, and goals. Our experienced team will conduct an assessment to determine the ideal treatment plan tailored to your child's needs. While research suggests that intensive ABA therapy yields optimal outcomes, we understand the importance of finding a balance that works for your family's schedule and your child's progress.
How Does ABA Therapy Help My Child?
ABA Therapy transforms lives by targeting areas that matter most to your child's development. An individualized ABA therapy plan will be developed for your child to achieve goals that will improve their quality of life. We craft personalized goals, focusing on enhancing communication, social interactions, self-care, and more. Our sessions are structured and play-based, ensuring that learning is engaging and effective. With the guidance of our Board Certified clinicians, your child will learn to navigate daily challenges, form meaningful connections, and thrive in various environments.
Most children in Stride’s program need support with communication skills, social skills, and behavior challenges, but Stride’s Board Certified clinicians will need to meet with you and your child and conduct a thorough assessment before they determine exactly how we can help.
Does Insurance Cover ABA Therapy in Chicago?
ABA therapy is often covered by insurance in Chicago. We work with various insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of IL, UnitedHealth Group/Optum, Aetna, and Cigna. Our team is experienced in navigating insurance processes and works closely with insurance providers to make the process smooth and maximize coverage for your child's therapy.
How Will I Track My Child's Progress in Chicago ABA Therapy?
At Stride, tracking your child's progress is an essential part of our approach. We use data-driven methods to assess your child's advancements in various skill areas. Our team regularly reviews this data and provides transparent feedback to you. We also hold regular meetings to discuss goals, achievements, and any adjustments needed to ensure your child's continuous growth and development.
What Qualifications Do Your Chicago ABA Therapists Hold?
Our therapists in Chicago are highly trained professionals, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), who specialize in providing effective ABA therapy. BCBAs complete rigorous academic training and accumulate 2,000 hours of hands-on experience, ensuring they are equipped to provide top-tier ABA therapy to your child.
Can I Be Involved in My Child's ABA Therapy in Chicago?
Absolutely! Parental involvement is crucial for success. We encourage active participation and collaboration throughout your child's ABA therapy journey. Our therapists collaborate closely with families, providing guidance on strategies that can be implemented at home to reinforce learning and progress.
