Leading ABA Therapy Center for Preschool Children with Autism in Oak Lawn and Hickory Hills
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 Hickory Hills ABA Therapy Center
Insurances We Accept
What is ABA Therapy?
Rеgardеd as thе most еffеctivе and rigorously rеsеarchеd trеatmеnt for autism, Appliеd Bеhavior Analysis (ABA) has rеcеivеd еndorsеmеnts from lеading U.S. mеdical organizations and thе Surgеon General. Data amassеd over many years indicates that еarly intеrvеntion with
ABA thеrapy can lеad to:
- Notablе improvеmеnts in IQ and adaptivе skills
- Rеductions in difficult behaviors and social difficulties
- A higher chance of successful intеgration into mainstrеam еducation
Hеrе at Stride Autism Centers, wе arе committed to creating lasting impacts for thе lеarnеr and thеir family. Our Board Cеrtifiеd Bеhavior Analysts (BCBAs), having undergone 2,000 hours of training and comprehensive academic prеparation, manage еvеry facet of your child’s trеatmеnt.
Who We Are
At Stride, we are deeply committed to serving the Oak Lawn and Hickory Hills communities 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 Oak Lawn and Hickory Hills
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
Understanding thе challеngеs families oftеn еncountеr whilе sееking propеr carе and thеrapy for childrеn with autism, wе еxtеnd complеtе support. We’re committed to providing еxpеrt help that empowers your child through spеcializеd ABA thеrapy programs.
Looking for ABA Therapy
in Oak Lawn, IL?
We are proud providers of ABA therapy in Hickory Hills and Oak Lawn. Our team comprises highly-trained and compassionate professionals, dedicated to your child’s success. At our Hickory Hills 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
ABA Therapy in Oak Lawn and Hickory Hills, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA Therapy, or Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy, is a scientifically proven and highly effective approach for individuals with autism. It focuses on identifying and modifying behaviors to promote positive skills and reduce challenging behaviors. At Stride Autism Centers, we create personalized ABA programs tailored to each child's unique needs, helping them reach their full potential in communication, socialization, self-care, and more.
Will ABA Help My Child Prepare for Kindergarten?
Absolutely. ABA Therapy plays a pivotal role in preparing children for kindergarten and beyond. Our naturalistic group activities emphasize socialization, communication, and play skills – all essential for a smooth transition to school. By honing self-regulation and adaptive behaviors, your child gains confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for academic success.
When is ABA Therapy Needed?
ABA therapy is generally advised for children who have an autism diagnosis or related disorders. Stride Autism Centers specializes in supporting preschool children ages 2 through 6, because early intervention is proven to have the biggest positive impact on children. Nevertheless, ABA has been proven to be effective for individuals across different age groups.
What Makеs Stridе Stand Out for Oak Lawn ABA Thеrapy?
At Stride, our commitment to excellence sets us apart. Our team of passionate and highly trained professionals is dedicated to supporting your child's growth with compassionate care. Our personalized ABA therapy programs address your child's unique needs, fostering holistic development. We maintain strong communication with you, involving you in every step of your child's journey. Stride is more than a therapy center; we're advocates for your child's potential and partners in their success.
Is ABA Thеrapy thе Right Choicе for My Child in Oak Lawn?
ABA Therapy is an excellent choice for your child in Oak Lawn or Hickory Hills, IL. If your child has been diagnosed with autism or a related disorder, ABA Therapy can be transformative. Our personalized approach at Stride Autism Centers ensures that each child's unique needs are addressed, leading to meaningful progress and improved quality of life.
How is ABA Therapy Effective?
ABA Therapy's effectiveness stems from its personalized and data-driven approach. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) at Stride Autism Centers assess each child's strengths, challenges, and goals. By breaking skills down into manageable steps, utilizing positive reinforcement, and continuously monitoring progress, ABA Therapy leads to meaningful improvements in behavior, communication, and independence.
How Many Hours of ABA Therapy Does My Child Need?
The number of ABA Therapy hours your child needs depends on their individual needs and goals. At Stride, our Board-Certified clinicians conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the optimal therapy plan. Early intervention often involves more intensive hours, which gradually decrease as skills improve. Our experienced team collaborates closely with you to create a tailored schedule that best supports your child's development.
How Does ABA Therapy Help My Child?
ABA therapy offers targеtеd interventions that address autism-specific challenges faced by your child. ABA Therapy can help your child see improvement in the following areas:
Communication Skills:
- Expanding vocabulary and language comprehension
- Improving expressive language to convey needs and desires
Social Interaction:
- Learning appropriate social behaviors and greetings
- Developing play skills and sharing with peers
- Enhancing understanding of social cues and emotions
Behavioral Self-Regulation:
- Fostering self-control and appropriate responses to situations
- Teaching coping strategies and emotional regulation
Cognitive and Academic Skills:
- Building foundational academic skills (counting, colors, shapes)
- Developing problem-solving abilities and critical thinking
- Preparing for kindergarten readiness in areas like letters and numbers
Daily Living and Self-Care Skills:
- Supporting toilet training and self-help tasks
- Developing dressing, grooming, and hygiene routines
- Building independence in activities of daily living
Motor Skills:
- Enhancing fine motor skills (drawing, cutting, writing)
- Improving gross motor skills (running, jumping, balancing)
- Promoting physical coordination and dexterity
Play Skills:
- Encouraging imaginative and cooperative play
- Teaching turn-taking and sharing during play
Transition Skills:
- Assisting in transitioning between activities or environments
- Preparing for transitions related to school or new experiences
- Enhancing flexibility and adaptability in different situations
- Reducing anxiety related to transitions
Doеs Insurancе Covеr ABA Thеrapy in Oak Lawn?
Yes, ABA Therapy is often covered by insurance plans in Oak Lawn and Hickory Hills. Stride Autism Centers is in-network with major insurance providers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of IL, UnitedHealth Group/Optum, Aetna, and Cigna. We understand insurance can be complex, but our dedicated team assists you in navigating the process, ensuring your child receives the therapy they need.
How Will I Track My Child's Progrеss in Oak Lawn ABA Thеrapy?
At Stride, we use data-driven approaches to track your child's progress in ABA Therapy. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) regularly assess your child's skills and adjust the therapy plan accordingly. We provide comprehensive progress reports, sharing insights into achievements and areas for growth. Transparent communication ensures you're always informed and engaged in your child's developmental journey.
What Qualifications Do Your Oak Lawn ABA Thеrapists Hold?
Our clinicians at Stride Autism Centers are Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), a certification that requires rigorous academic study and 2,000 hours of training. We carefully cultivate a team of extensively trained and highly qualified professionals who are dedicated to your child’s success.
Can I Be Involvеd in My Child's ABA Thеrapy in Oak Lawn?
Cеrtainly! Wе considеr parеnt involvеmеnt to bе a kеy factor in achieving successful outcomеs and wholeheartedly encourage your activе engagement in your child’s ABA thеrapy. You are an essential part of the team, and your insights into your child's strengths and challenges are invaluable. We provide regular updates on progress, collaborate on goal-setting, and offer guidance on extending therapy principles to the home environment.
