Autism Center
Where children learn to play
Therapy in a Center-Based Environment
Learning and Growing Alongside Peers
Our Learning Centers give children a chance to interact with peers in a learning-rich environment, while receiving intensive one-to-one support.
We optimize your child’s opportunities for learning not only by working with them individually to help them reach their individual goals, but we also give your child a chance to socialize in groups.
Our Learning Centers are more than teaching spaces. They help children develop the necessary skills to build friendships and confidence in social settings. Many of our Learning Center locations feature sensory gyms, group learning areas, and pretend-play spaces.
Designed exclusively for contemporary ABA, these unique, play-based environments make learning fun and engaging. They’re where your child can start on their path to success in school and in life.
Fostering Friendships
Friendships can be difficult for anyone to navigate, especially for children with autism and other special needs.
You may notice that your child develops at a different rate than neurotypical children and communicates with people differently as well.
At AST, we understand the importance of developing friendships and socializing at school and in the community. How do we, then, help children with autism learn to make friends? We focus on strengths. Then, we develop strategies for success. We start with the basics for making and keeping friends, including good communication, cooperation, and compassion.
We also assist in other areas, such as navigating sensory processing and communication issues. Our Learning Centers give children a safe space to develop their social skills and grow socially and emotionally.
Our experienced board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and behavior technicians (BTs) deliver contemporary ABA therapy that makes learning playful and fun.
Through group activities and creative play, we provide opportunities for children to build language and communication skills, develop social and play skills, build tolerance for new routines, and foster friendships.
Center-based therapy revolves around these guiding principles:
| 1 |
Children thrive in a supportive, learning-rich environment. This is the framework for our Learning Center model. |
| 2 |
Children learn best through structured teaching and play. That’s why we provide one-on-one and small group instruction. |
| 3 |
Every child is unique and is at a different stage in their development. Each program is designed to be developmentally appropriate and personalized to each child. |
| 4 |
All interventions are evidence-based. We use the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) with clinical direction from a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA). |
| 5 |
We’re family-centered. All parents, families, and caregivers are actively involved in planning their child’s treatment. We’ll empower you to learn to navigate life on the spectrum. |
We understand that an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. At AST, we’re here to help. Wherever you are on your journey, reach out and let us share the services and resources we have to offer. We’ve helped thousands of families figure out their next steps and are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of service to help each child reach their goals.
Launchpad Learning Program
Our Launchpad program focuses on children with autism ages 2 to 6 who are ready to transition from a one-on-one learning environment to a group setting. Here, we help prepare your child for kindergarten or first grade. Half the day involves group activities with a 3:1 staff-child ratio, developing team skills and independence. The other half of the day focuses on individual instruction, addressing personal growth areas. We understand the importance of a smooth transition from early intervention to a school environment. Launchpad is designed to bridge that gap, supporting your child’s continued growth and success.
LEARN MORE
