Recent CDC prevalence data show that about one in 31 children in the United States now has autism. For many of these families, the first step into ABA therapy in Chicago raises a surprising question: Why does the therapist begin by playing instead of teaching? That early play, called pairing in ABA therapy, is the…
Your child may avoid circle time, struggle to follow directions, feel overwhelmed after a full school day, require additional support to communicate effectively, or have difficulty maintaining focus. When teachers and therapists introduce the individualized education plan (IEP), it’s natural to want a clear explanation of how the process will support your child’s growth. Understanding…
In April, Noble Square transforms into a blooming wonderland, signalling the arrival of Autism Awareness Month. As a parent of a child with autism, you know that your community is often your biggest resource. Getting together for initiatives that truly support inclusion and raise awareness is worth the effort. Autism Awareness Month helps support your…
The Schroth Method is a research-backed, proven treatment to help children, teens, and adults with scoliosis. Schroth Therapy is a hands-on, patient-driven method that aims to improve scoliosis outcomes using the patient’s own muscles and body. It is recommended by the International Society on Scoliosis Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Treatment. Furthermore, only certified Schroth therapists are…
Is your child facing communication, behavioral, or developmental challenges? You’ve likely encountered “BCBA” in your search for answers, but what does this actually mean for your family? A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a specially trained professional who designs and leads ABA therapy to help neurodivergent children build essential life skills. About 17% of…
Important Note for Families: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Only qualified medical professionals (such as developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, or psychiatrists) can diagnose autism spectrum disorder. The information about autism levels, signs, and therapies is provided to help you understand your child’s potential…
Important Note for Families: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Generalization training should be designed and supervised by qualified Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) as part of a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan. Every child’s developmental needs are unique, and therapy outcomes vary based on…
Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is unique, and ABA therapy individualizes programs to meet each child’s specific needs. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers and Board Certified Behavior Analysts regarding your child’s care. If you’ve ever wondered…
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Developmental milestones vary widely among children. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, occupational therapists, or developmental specialists, for personalized evaluation and guidance regarding your child’s development. Individual outcomes vary, and no therapy guarantees specific results….
Wicker park is in constant motion, and gross motor skills help your child navigate their daily life. Even something as seemingly inconsequential as a struggle in the jungle gym could indicate a gross motor skill delay. Gross motor skills are the tools your child uses to explore their world, join in social play, and sit…
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional curvature of the spine. The most common type of scoliosis is idiopathic scoliosis. Idiopathic means that the cause of this type of scoliosis is unknown. Idiopathic scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in preteens or teens and is more common in girls than boys. Scoliosis can also have a known cause, such as a genetic syndrome, neuromuscular condition, or deformity of the vertebrae (spine…
Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys and challenges. As the parent of a child with autism, every day can bring more discoveries and new learning moments. Some parents have described it as learning how to build a plane while flying it, but with the right support, you can conquer any challenge. From Bucktown to…
When your child, preteen, or teen received a diagnosis of scoliosis, you may have asked yourself the following questions: Why did this happen? Will they need a brace or surgery? What else can we do to help? How long will my child need support for scoliosis? Read on to find the answers to these commonly asked questions! Why did this…
If you notice your child flapping their hands when excited, humming the same tune repeatedly, or rocking gently during stressful moments, you might wonder what these behaviors mean. Repetitive actions, known as stimming, are your child’s natural way of navigating a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. For many children, especially those with autism or…
Does it seem like your child is a picky eater? Do you dread every mealtime because you feel like you are force feeding your child? Does your child refuse to put certain foods near his or her mouth? If this sounds familiar, don’t worry—there are methods to introduce foods into a child’s repertoire in fun…
