Tag: autism spectrum therapies

5 Sensory-Friendly Places in Yuma, Arizona 

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5 Sensory-Friendly Places in Yuma, Arizona 
May 7, 2026

Yuma is known for its sunshine and wide-open desert. For many families, those open spaces offer more than a view. They offer room to breathe. 

Children with autism and other sensory differences often experience sound, light, touch, and movement more intensely. For some kids, a crowded room can feel overwhelming. Bright lighting can distract from play or conversation. A sensory-friendly space lowers that intensity. It offers predictability, clear boundaries, and enough space for a child to move or take a break when needed. 

Parents often ask where they can go that will feel manageable for their child. While every child is different, many families find that outdoor parks, structured community spaces, and quieter indoor environments provide a more comfortable experience. 

Here are five places in Yuma that can offer just that. 

1. Gateway Park offers open space along the Colorado River 

Gateway Park sits right along the Colorado River, and the first thing it offers is space. The layout feels open and easy to navigate. The playground stands next to wide grass and shaded picnic tables, so families can choose how close they want to be to the busiest areas. 

The river provides a steady, natural backdrop. That consistent sound can feel gentler than traffic or a crowded indoor setting. Mornings tend to be the sweet spot, with cooler air, softer light, and more room to move at a calm, steady pace. 

Tip for Families: Visit early in the day, especially in warmer months. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to help your child stay physically comfortable. 

2. Yuma Art Center provides a structured indoor setting for creative exploration 

The Yuma Art Center breaks its galleries into clear, defined spaces, which makes the building easier to navigate. Families can move through exhibits slowly, without pressure to rush. For children who respond strongly to color, pattern, or texture, visual art can feel grounding rather than overwhelming. 

The center also offers classes and workshops throughout the year. Smaller groups and hands-on projects give children structure and a clear beginning and end.  

Tip for Families: A quick call ahead can help families choose a quieter time to visit or find a class that fits their child’s comfort level. 

3. Yuma Conservation Garden creates a quiet desert walking experience 

The Yuma Conservation Garden features native desert plants along simple walking paths. There are no loud attractions or flashing lights. Instead, families find open air, natural textures, and room to move slowly. 

Because the garden is outdoors, it is important to plan around the heat. Early visits or cooler months may feel more comfortable for children who are sensitive to temperature. 

Tip for Families: Plan a short first visit and keep the route simple. Let your child set the walking pace. 

4. Main Library – Yuma County Library District maintains a predictable and quiet environment 

The Main Library offers consistent sound levels and clearly defined spaces. The children’s section provides room to explore books, sit in reading areas, and participate in scheduled programs. 

For many children, the predictability of a library setting helps reduce anxiety. Staff members can guide families toward story times or events that may be a good fit. 

Tip for Families: Visit during weekday mornings if possible. Bring headphones in case of unexpected noise. 

5. West Wetlands Park gives families room to move and adjust 

West Wetlands Park blends playground equipment with wide desert landscape and walking trails, which gives families flexibility. The park is large enough to shift gears without packing up and leaving. If the playground feels busy, it is easy to step onto a trail or find a quieter stretch near the water. 

Tip for Families: Start in a quieter section of the park and identify a calm spot where your child can take a break if needed. 

Looking for Support in Yuma? 

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) provides evidence-based applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy and individualized support for children and families across Arizona, including Yuma. If there are questions about a child’s development or about what support might look like, our team is here to talk through next steps. 

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Ontario, CA

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Flexible Hours and No Wait List for San Bernadino County Families

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new 4684 Ontario Mills Parkway, Suite 100, Ontario, CA 91764.

AST provides contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) center-based autism services for children ages 1-14 years. The Ontario Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, Early Intervention services, caregiver education, Social Skills Programs, and after-school programming. Outside of the center, the Ontario team offers in-home and school-based ABA therapy.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families in the Central Inland Empire area and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care,” said Hayley Peck, M.A., BCBA, Senior Regional Clinical Director. 

Key Features of the Ontario Learning Center:

  • Second largest facility in the region, featuring an indoor gross motor area and play structure for physical and social development, along with individual treatment rooms.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Social Skills development and after-school programs offered.
  • Flexible treatment hours and hybrid schedules to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 1-14 years old.
  • Conveniently located near Ontario Mills outlet mall and easily accessible via I-10 and I-15, as well as via public transportation for families in the region.

The new Ontario location is enrolling new clients with no wait list.

About AST

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. In addition to the Ontario Learning Center, AST has ABA therapy locations in Azusa, Chula Vista, Long Beach, Menifee, Norco, Orange, Riverside, San Gabriel, San Marcos, Santa Ana, Temecula, and Victorville.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Ontario Learning Center, call (866) 727-8274 or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/inland-empire

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

New Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Norco, CA

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Flexible Hours and No Wait List for Inland Empire Area Families

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Norco Learning Center at 1731 Third St, Norco, CA 92860.

AST provides contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) center-based autism services for children ages 1-12 years. The Norco Learning Center provides center-based and in-home ABA therapy, parent education, and Social Skills Programs.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families in Riverside County and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care,” said Bri Waterbury, M.A., BCBA, Regional Clinical Director.

Key Features of the Norco Learning Center:

  • Large facility, which includes an indoor play structurefor physical and social development, as well as small group rooms.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • A unique combination of center-based and in-home services to best cater to families’ needs.
  • Social Skills Programs, including seasonal programming.
  • Flexible treatment hours, including after-school and weekend hours, to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 1-12 years old.
  • Conveniently located adjacent to Riverside Community College and easily accessible via I-15 for families in the region.

The new location in Norco is enrolling new clients with no wait list.

About AST

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. In addition to the Norco Learning Center, AST has ABA therapy locations in Azusa, Chula Vista, Long Beach, Menifee, Orange, Riverside, San Gabriel, San Marcos, Santa Ana, Temecula, and Victorville, as well as a corporate office in Ontario. AST is also opening a Learning Center in Ontario later this spring.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Norco Learning Center, call (866) 727-8274or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/inland-empire

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Five Sensory-Friendly Places to Visit in and Around Norco, California

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Some places are simply easier places for families to go. 

They are not perfectly quiet or empty. They just feel manageable. Noise does not build too fast. Crowds tend to spread out instead of bunching up. There is room to walk, sit, or take a break without drawing attention. Families can stay for a short time or longer, depending on how a child is doing. 

Parents of children with sensory sensitivities learn which places work by experience. They notice where outings feel calmer and where things unravel quickly. Certain locations become dependable options they can return to. 

Norco has more of these places than people often realize. Its open spaces, trail systems, and slower pace create everyday spots where families can spend time together more comfortably. 

Here are five sensory-friendly places in and around Norco that families often return to. 

1. Santa Ana River Trail gives families room to move 

The Santa Ana River Trail runs along the edge of Norco with wide, paved paths. The trail feels open, and families can walk, use scooters, or simply sit and watch what is happening around them. Because the space does not change much from one section to the next, children can see what is coming. That consistency can make a big difference. 

Tip for families: Choose a short, familiar stretch and turn back when needed. Repeating the same section can help children feel more comfortable. 

2. The Ingalls Event Center offers laid-back ambiance  

The Ingalls Event Center reflects what Norco is known for: horses, open land, and a slower rhythm. It’s an agricultural, equestrian, and animal-keeping center where the grounds are spread out. On days without large events, families often walk the perimeter or watch riders from a distance. There is plenty to see without needing to join in. 

Tip for families: Check the event calendar before you go. Non-event mornings are usually quieter. 

3. Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is good for quiet outdoor time 

The Hidden Valley Wildlife Area sits in the Norco Hills and offers dirt trails, native plants, and wide views. There are no playgrounds or scheduled activities. Families set their own pace. Children who like to look at rocks, plants, or insects often do well here. There is no pressure to move quickly or cover a certain distance. 

Tip for families: Walk the same loop each visit. Predictable paths help reduce surprises. 

4. Norco College Library offers a quiet place to pause 

The Norco College Library provides a calm, organized space with clear expectations. Lighting stays even. Voices stay low. Families can read, sit together, or take a break from busier environments. Because it is on a college campus, the library often feels less crowded than public branches, especially outside class rush times. 

Tip for families: Midmorning tends to be the quietest time. Staff can help point out less busy seating areas. 

5. Pumpkin Rock Trail lets families control the outing 

The Pumpkin Rock Trail is a popular local hike, but it also works well for flexible outings. The trail is easy to follow and open enough that families can stop, take breaks, or turn back at any point. The scenery stays fairly consistent, which helps children stay comfortable without too much sensory input. 

Tip for families: Go earlier in the day, especially in warmer months, to avoid heavier foot traffic. 

Looking for more support? 

Getting out into the community is one piece of daily life. Ongoing support can help too. 

Families in Norco and nearby communities can connect with Autism Spectrum Therapies, (AST) part of LEARN Behavioral. Autism Spectrum Therapies provides applied behavior analysis therapy that reflects each child’s needs, strengths, and personality, both at home and in the community. 

LEARN Behavioral Opens Doors of New Autism Learning Center in Chula Vista, CA.

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Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Chula Vista Learning Center at 660 Bay Blvd., Suite 110 & 111, Chula Vista, CA 91910.

AST provides contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) center-based autism services for children ages 1-12 years. The Chula Vista Learning Center provides center-based, in-home, and community-based ABA therapy and individualized programs, including Early Intervention, Social Skills Programs, and parent education.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families in the San Diego area and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care,” said Heather Link, M.A., BCBA, Regional Clinical Director.

Key Features of the Chula Vista Learning Center:

  • Large facility which includes an indoor gross motor spacefor physical and social development.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • A unique combination of center-based, in-home, and community-based services to best cater to families’ needs.
  • A school readiness program, as well as summer programs and school break camps. Social skills groups include Weekend Club and Friday Night Hang Out.
  • Flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 1-12 years old and teen programs coming soon.
  • Conveniently located near Chula Vista Marina and easily accessible via I-5 and CA-94 for families in the region.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in greater San Diego with flexible treatment hours.

About AST

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. The Chula Vista Learning Center is AST’s second ABA therapy location in San Diego County. They also have a Learning Center in San Marcos and a corporate office in San Diego.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Chula Vista Learning Center, call (866) 727-8274 or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/san-diego

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

A Fresh Approach: Empowering Children with Autism

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Written by Alison Spanoghe, Behavior Analyst, Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST)

When I first started working in a school system with children on the autism spectrum in the early 2000s, my leaders told me to stick to my instructions — no matter what. They told me this would be best for the children in the long run. As a newbie, I followed orders.

Often, though, that approach led to anger, tears, and resistance from the children who needed my help the most. Despite science backing up the “follow-my-orders” approach, it didn’t always feel “right.”

Today, my approach has evolved to something called “assent-based practice.” It’s a model that puts an end to instruction through coercion. It prioritizes the child’s agreement to participate in therapy rather than mandating that they follow orders.

The Old Way: Extinction

If you’re familiar with applied behavior analysis (ABA), you may have come across the term “extinction.” In simple terms, extinction means not reinforcing a previously reinforced behavior. The aim is to reduce the chances of that behavior happening again.

Let’s say your TV remote stops working. After a while, you’ll stop pressing the power button and maybe look for batteries or ask for help instead. The same principle applies to ABA services. If a certain behavior — like screaming — is not encouraged, the child will eventually stop doing it. You could then teach them a better way to communicate their needs instead of screaming.

While that might be good in theory, behavior isn’t always that straightforward. Also, the extinction approach can sometimes lead to other issues, like longer tantrums, aggression, or even distrust toward caregivers. That’s where assent-based practice comes in.

The New Way: Assent-Based Practice

Assent-based practice focuses on making sure the child agrees to take part in therapy — even if that agreement is nonverbal. When a child is actively engaged, that’s one indication that they are communicating that they agree with participating in treatment.

This type of approach involves:

  • Constant check-ins
  • Respecting when the child no longer wants to participate in treatment
  • Adapting the approach based on the child’s response
  • Teaching the child to communicate

The goal of this technique is to equip children with autism with skills that are useful in any situation. It also helps them advocate for themselves and make it clear when they want to say “no.” It’s more of a compassionate way of providing care.

Why Assent-Based Practice?

There are many benefits to using assent-based practice. It can:

  • Build Trust: It helps establish a safe and trusting relationship between the child and the therapist.
  • Promote Expression: The child learns that they are seen and heard. It encourages them to express their feelings.
  • Respect Autonomy: The child’s “no” is respected, promoting their dignity and independence.
  • Enhance Learning: This approach avoids standoffs. It allows more reinforcement of language use and engagement in the session.

Assent-based practice has become a popular topic in ABA services. It emphasizes getting the child’s agreement before continuing therapy. It teaches children to express their feelings. It also respects their dignity and independence.

Therapists can use this approach with any child at any time, leading to faster learning and better rapport with the child. While our understanding of assent-based practice continues to evolve, it is a worthwhile approach to consider because it puts the child first.

Alison Spanoghe is a behavior analyst with Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST).