Blog - Autism Learning Collaborative

Make The Most Of The Season By Following These Simple Guidelines

Holidays are a special time of year, filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, family feasts, and much more. However, for children with autism and their families, holidays can be overwhelming. The added pressure of interacting with people we don’t see daily and the disruption in normal routines can be anxiety-provoking for most, especially children with

Receive that Response!

From Sarah Martinez, BCBA Giving Instructions to Get an Actual Response Parents and caregivers tell their children what to do countless times per day. I would know, I’m a mom too. Get dressed. Grab your cup. Wash your hands. Leave the dogs alone. Take that out of your mouth! And the list goes on. Children

From Parent to Practitioner

Read about real life experiences, from a parent and a BCBA: Being a parent of a neurodiverse child has its own set of challenges. Challenges that can be so unique that a practitioner may have to get creative with evidenced-based interventions. Being a parent of a neurodiverse child AND a practitioner is a completely different

Spring Break Fun for Families with Children with Autism

Spring Break Fun for Families with Children with Autism The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Navigating Emotional Landscapes: Strategies for Parents to Support Each Other and Their Child with Autism

Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can evoke a complex tapestry of emotions, from confusion and concern to love and determination. As parents embark on this journey together, supporting each other becomes as crucial as supporting their child. This blog explores the emotional dynamics within families navigating an autism diagnosis, offering practical advice to

Basic Behavior Management Principles with Amberly

Amberly Bossert, a Clinical Director for Apara Autism Centers in the Houston area, gave an in-depth talk on basic behavior management principles at Dar-us-Sakina in mid-2022. Their 82 interns who work 1:1 with special needs students will use what they learned to help develop their tool kit when working with special needs students. You can

Share the Love. It Just Makes Sens-ory! DIY Valentine’s Sensory Bin

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we know the hunt for sensory-friendly activities is in full swing. A simple way to celebrate holidays is with theme-inspired sensory bins or bottles. What is a Sensory Activity? It’s as simple as it sounds! A Sensory Activity is a fun activity that engages all or specific senses.

5 Ways to Beat the Heat and Have Fun This Summer

The summer heat can be brutal, but it’s also a fantastic time to create unforgettable family memories. That is why our team has put together five fun activities that we hope will spark joy and keep you cool. Homemade Popsicles: Blend some of your family’s favorite fruits and vegetables and freeze them in popsicle

Start The School Year Off Strong: A Guide For Parents

The recipe for your best school year yet is simple. Communication+Information+Support= the winning combinations for a fantastic support team and a successful academic school year. Below are suggestions to help build a supportive and strong relationship with your little one’s teacher; and questions to ask before, during, and after an IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) meeting.

How Smart Technology Can Help Your Child Living with Autism

Recommendations from ABA Behavioral Therapists The safety of a child is paramount for any caring parent, and if you have a child with Autism there may be additional measures required to ensure your child’s safety. Because a child with ASD may not fully comprehend the concept of safety, it is necessary to keep a watchful

Navigating the Autism Journey: Empowering Tips for New Parents

Navigating the Autism Journey: Empowering Tips for New Parents The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

2024: Charting a Path for Success in ABA Therapy with Strategic Goal-Setting

2024: Charting a Path for Success in ABA Therapy with Strategic Goal-Setting As the calendar turns to January, we embrace the spirit of new beginnings. This is a time for reflection, planning, and setting goals, not just for ourselves but also for the special children in our lives undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. The

5 Ways to Have a Safe and Fun Halloween with Your Child with Autism

Halloween is almost here, so it’s time to celebrate ghouls, goblins, and paw patrol. Most people have already prepared for the holiday by decorating their yards, stocking up on candy, and watching Hocus Pocus 2, but for the family with a child with Autism, a little more preparation is required for a safe and fun

Common School Acronyms and What They Mean

504? IEP? These are just a few terms you may have heard from your child’s teacher or school counselor. Now that the new school year is in full swing, several amazing school staff members want to work with you to make sure it is the best school year yet! This means there may be some

Colorful Journeys: Exploring Oklahoma City’s Murals with Your Little Ones

Colorful Journeys: Exploring Oklahoma City’s Murals with Your Little Ones Join us on an enchanting adventure through Oklahoma City’s streets, where every corner is a canvas showcasing the city’s vibrant public art. This guide is designed for families with young children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, offering a sensory-rich exploration of Oklahoma City’s most

Embracing Care: Respite Services for Families of Children with Autism in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, and Omaha

Embracing Care: Respite Services for Families of Children with Autism in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, and Omaha Caring for a child with autism is a journey of love that requires immense dedication. It’s also a path where caregivers need support to ensure they can continue to provide the best care. Respite services are an

Holiday Light Tours in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City: A Family-Friendly Guide

Holiday Light Tours in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City: A Family-Friendly Guide The holiday season brings a magical transformation to cities with glittering lights and festive decorations. For families, especially those with children with autism, navigating these displays can be both enchanting and overwhelming. Our guide offers insights into sensory-friendly holiday light tours

Supporting Your Child Diagnosed with ASD During Uncertain Times

ABA Therapy: How it May Help Through Difficult Circumstances A pandemic occurring within our lifetime is not an event that anyone could have predicted. Abruptly, people were compelled to reevaluate the way they approached their health and safety. Quarantines were enforced, new habits were formed, and in many cases, school, work, and home life were

Top 4 Qualities to Look For in an ABA Center

You are at the doctor’s office when they give you the news that your child has a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a complex developmental disorder that affects 1 in every 59 births in America. The recommendation given is intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and the earlier you start the better.

How and When is Autism Diagnosed?

Learning that your child has a disorder of any kind can be overwhelming. And nowadays, with limitless information on the internet, any milestone missed may send you into a frenzy of searching. Therefore, it’s essential to know where to look for accurate information so that you can find the proper support for your child and

At-Home ABA Therapy Activities

We’re going to be completely honest. These activities won’t only help support ABA therapy but will also help any household with children run a lot smoother! These ABA activities are designed not only to assist children with autism but also to bring harmony and structure to any household with children. Below are two helpful things

Easy St. Paddy’s Day DIY Calming Bottles And More Lucky Crafts!

DIY calming bottles are your lucky charm this St. Paddy’s day! Sensory bottles, often called calming bottles, are a fantastic way to bring some holiday-themed fun into your classroom or home. Calming bottles are also a great tool to help with emotional regulation. They give children (and adults) something soothing to watch, leading to

The Benefits Of ABA Therapy for Autism

When your child gets diagnosed with Autism, it can be challenging to know where to turn for help. For some parents, ABA therapy is the answer. ABA therapy is a safe and beneficial, scientific-based therapy. Still, if you do not get a qualified therapist, you may worsen some targeted behaviors, or your child may develop

Bellevue and Omaha’s Warmest Welcomes: Coffee Shops for Parents of Children with Autism

Nebraska’s heart beats strong in its local coffee shops, where community and warmth brew together in every cup. For parents of children with autism, finding a comfortable and understanding spot for a peaceful break or a supportive chat is priceless. In Bellevue and Omaha, Nebraska, several coffee havens stand out not only for their excellent

St. Louis Murals: A Vivid Tour of the Gateway City’s Street Art

St. Louis Murals: A Vivid Tour of the Gateway City’s Street Art Welcome to St. Louis, where the walls speak and the city is an open-air gallery of vibrant murals. If you’re looking to explore the rich tapestry of culture, history, and creativity that St. Louis offers, this guide to the city’s most iconic murals

Autism Action (Awareness) Month: How You Can Take Action to Celebrate Neurodiversity

If you have a connection to the autism community—or even if you don’t—you may have heard that April is Autism Awareness Month, also called World Autism Month. Throughout the month, the world focuses on unity and collaboration by fostering support, sharing stories, and connecting to create a more inclusive world. On March 23, 2023, the

How to Celebrate Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd and All Month Long

At Autism Learning Collaborative, we celebrate Autism Awareness all YEAR long. However, in April, and especially on April 2nd, we are joined with people around the globe celebrating with us. The goal of Autism Awareness Month and Autism Awareness Day is to bring understanding to everyone about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By educating our communities

Navigating the Holidays: Tips for Sensory-Friendly Celebrations in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City

Navigating the Holidays: Tips for Sensory-Friendly Celebrations in St. Louis, Albuquerque, Omaha, and Oklahoma City The holiday season, with its lights, sounds, and gatherings, can be a time of joy for many. However, for individuals with sensory sensitivities, it can also be a time of heightened anxiety and overstimulation. This guide aims to offer solutions

Sensory-Friendly Events in November: A Guide for Families

Sensory-Friendly Events in November: A Guide for Families �� Sensory Friendly Time at Explora �� When: Nov 11, 2023, 9:00 am – 10:00 am Where: EXPLORA, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104 Join us for an extra hour crafted especially for those who appreciate a less sensory-stimulating environment. Limited spots are available, so make

The Sandia Mountains: Albuquerque’s Natural Escape

Discovering the therapeutic wonders of nature for children and families in Albuquerque. Albuquerque’s vibrant cityscape is brilliantly juxtaposed against the backdrop of the towering Sandia Mountains. These majestic peaks, with their rugged beauty, serve as a tranquil haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life. For families, particularly those raising children with autism,

Nature in the City: OKC’s Green Spaces and Water Adventures

Discovering the best outdoor spots in Oklahoma City for children and families. The bustling urban scene of Oklahoma City, with its shiny skyscrapers and historic buildings, may give the impression of a landscape dominated by concrete. However, OKC has its own treasure trove of green spaces and water adventures, waiting to be explored by children

Riverfront Adventures: Exploring the Mississippi in St. Louis

Riverfront Adventures: Exploring the Mississippi in St. Louis Ah, the Mississippi River! A majestic waterway with deep historical roots, winding its way through the heart of America. And when it comes to the vibrant city of St. Louis, the river not only holds a rich past but also offers a plethora of activities for families.

Heartland Adventures: Omaha’s Scenic Parks and Trails

Heartland Adventures: Omaha’s Scenic Parks and Trails If you’re a parent with young children in Omaha, you’re fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most picturesque parks and trails the Heartland has to offer. From expansive green landscapes to trails that weave through nature’s beauty, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures awaiting you and

Now Enrolling: Comprehensive ABA Therapy in Bellevue

ABA Therapy in Bellevue, NE! Autism Learning Collaborative is excited to announce that we’re now enrolling for ABA therapy at our brand-new location: 1001 Fort Crook Rd N, Suite 204, Bellevue, NE 68005. Why Choose ALC in Bellevue? Our dedicated center in Bellevue offers an array of autism therapy services, expanding across Omaha and its

Discover Albuquerque’s Best Parks

Discover Albuquerque’s Best Parks Albuquerque, with its sunny climate and picturesque landscapes, offers a plethora of parks that cater to a wide variety of recreational activities. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or a fitness fanatic, Albuquerque has a park for you. In this blog post, we

Family-Friendly Restaurants in West Omaha: Delicious Picks

Family-Friendly Restaurants in West Omaha: Where Delicious Meets Delightful! If you’re on the lookout for family-friendly dining spots in West Omaha, look no further! We’ve rounded up some of the best options that offer a warm ambiance, kid-friendly menus, and food so good that even the pickiest of eaters will be asking for seconds. Here’s

September Events: Omaha, Albuquerque, OKC, and St. Louis

Sensory-Friendly Events in September: An Inclusive Experience In Omaha, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis September is here, and various cities have been hard at work creating sensory-friendly events for the autism community and those with sensory sensitivities. Here’s your guide to sensory-friendly events happening in Omaha, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis. Mark your

Now Enrolling ABA Therapy in Albuquerque, New Mexico!

ABA Therapy in Albuquerque, NM! Autism Learning Collaborative Albuquerque, located at 8300 Jefferson St NE Suite B, offers a wide range of autism therapy services throughout the area. We understand that every child learns differently and each family has a different set of circumstances that may affect treatment. Our comprehensive therapy programs are designed to

Best Family-Friendly Parks in Oklahoma City: Outdoor Fun

The Best Family-Friendly Parks in Oklahoma City: Where Fun Meets the Outdoors! Oklahoma City, often referred to as the “Big Friendly,” is a haven for families looking to enjoy some quality time outdoors. The city is blessed with numerous parks that offer an array of activities for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re in the

Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis: Adventure for All Ages!

Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis: A Culinary Adventure for All Ages! St. Louis, known for its iconic Gateway Arch and rich history, is also a hotspot for delectable culinary delights. If you’re exploring the city with your family and are hunting for eateries that cater to both kids and adults, you’re in luck! Here’s a

Sensory-Friendly Events to Kick Off the New School Year!

Sensory-Friendly Events to Kick Off the New School Year! School is almost back in session and there are several events in the area aimed at providing sensory-friendly environments and experiences for individuals. Whether you want to make your very own sensory bottle or enjoy a calming day at a museum, there’s something for everyone. 1.

Now enrolling for ABA Therapy in Oklahoma City

ABA Therapy In Oklahoma City Autism Learning Collaborative offers a wide range of autism therapy services throughout the greater Oklahoma City area including. We understand that every child learns differently and each family has a different set of circumstances that may affect treatment. Our comprehensive therapy programs are designed to help children build important sets

Top 5 Splash Pads to Visit this Summer in Albuquerque

Beat the Heat: Top 5 Splash Pads to Visit this Summer in Albuquerque, New Mexico Summer is here, and the sun is shining brightly over Albuquerque. While this beautiful New Mexico city has no shortage of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy, nothing quite beats the joy of frolicking in a splash pad to escape the

The Ultimate Splash Pad Guide in Bellevue, Nebraska

The Ultimate Splash Pad Guide in Bellevue, Nebraska! As the summer temperatures soar, Autism Learning Collaborative is taking some much-needed time to shine a light on the fun, cooling relief of splash pads. Splash pads are perfect summer hangouts; they are a safe and engaging environment that helps to improve sensory processing, motor skills, and

July Sensory Friendly Events in Oklahoma City

July Sensory Friendly Events in Oklahoma City Oklahoma City (OKC) is all set to host an array of sensory-friendly events this July that promise to engage, entertain, and offer an inclusive environment for those with autism and special needs. These events ensure everyone can enjoy and participate without the fear of sensory overload. Here’s a

Now enrolling for ABA Therapy in St. Louis, MO

ABA Therapy In St. Louis, MO Autism Learning Collaborative is a center-based program dedicated to the principles of ABA Therapy while collaborating with your family and community resources to help your child reach their fullest potential. Our BCBA’s will create individualized ABA treatment plans for each client based on their initial and ongoing assessments. We

Make a Splash This Summer: The Best Splash Pads in St. Louis

The Best Splash Pads in St. Louis Hello St. Louis parents! Are you looking for fun, safe, and refreshing places to take your kids this summer? Well, look no further! St. Louis is home to some amazing splash pads that are sure to delight your little ones. They offer a great way to beat the

The Multifaceted Benefits of Working as a BCBA

The Benefits of Working in ABA Therapy as a BCBA Being a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is not just a job, but a vocation that offers both personal fulfillment and professional growth. The BCBA certification is a globally recognized credential in applied behavior analysis (ABA). As a BCBA, you’re responsible for understanding and applying

ABA Therapy Now Available In West Omaha!

Now enrolling for ABA Therapy in West Omaha, Nebraska! Autism Learning Collaborative is a center-based program dedicated to the principles of ABA Therapy while collaborating with your family and community resources to help your child reach their fullest potential. Our BCBA’s will create individualized ABA treatment plans for each client based on their initial and

4 Sensory-Friendly Destinations in Omaha for a Memorable Summer with Your Kids

Sensory-Friendly Summer Fun in Omaha! Summer is the perfect time to explore, create memories, and have fun with your family. For families with children who have sensory sensitivities, finding the right environments that cater to their needs can make all the difference. We’ve compiled a list of four sensory-friendly places in Omaha that you can

Five Tips for Managing Challenging Behavior in Children With Autism

When a child is having problem behaviors it can be a significant challenge for parents and families. Problem behaviors often show up in a variety of forms such as aggression, tantrums, noncompliance, and more. You might think “What could I have done to stop it?” or “How should I react in a way that will

What to Expect from Center-Based ABA Therapy for Autism

As Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) gains more attention from families with children with Autism, some families are not sure which type of support will be best for their child; in-home or center-based. Each service location has its unique benefits and limitations. In-home-based services are great for children looking to build their functional and daily living

6 Steps to Creating a Potty-Training Plan for a Child with Autism

Developing an potty-training schedule for a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder may be difficult especially if you don’t know where to start. These tips on potty training with Autism may help you make some progress and to build a general plan. Every child is different, however, and they often need an individualized plan with

How to Become a BCBA

If you want to help people live happier, healthier lives, consider becoming a behavioral analyst. Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs) work closely with people with developmental disabilities to help them build the necessary goals and skills to lead more fulfilling lives. If you’re interested in mental health and creating tailored therapy plans one-on-one with your

What Does a Behavior Analyst Do? Life as a BCBA

A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs and implements individualized plans rooted in applied behavior analysis (ABA) to help clients meet their goals and improve certain skills. These professionals help clients create new behaviors or modify existing ones by evaluating their relationship between their environment and their behavior. A behavioral analyst can work in various

Debunking Common Autism Myths

Through extensive research and investigation, we now know much more about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Through programs like the Center for Disease Control’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (ADDM), our understanding of ASD and other developmental disabilities is constantly improving, expanding our knowledge to better help children with ASD and related conditions. While there

Early Signs of Autism in Children Explained

Seeing the early signs of autism in children can be difficult since every child develops at a slightly different pace. Some children may display signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) early in their development, while others may not receive a diagnosis until their teens. Many children are diagnosed around 3 to 4 years old, although

Autism and Picky Eating: What You Need to Know

Children with autism often experience food selectivity issues, which can cause mealtime to become a difficult and stressful process. It’s estimated that 46%-89% of kids diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have issues eating. Food selectivity, sometimes called picky eating, can appear in children with ASD through rigid ritualistic eating habits, sensory issues around food,

ABA Therapy: A Day In the Life

A Day in the Life with ABA Therapy: How to Prepare & What to Expect Whether your child is newly diagnosed, or you just got off a long waiting list, this guide can help you and your child understand what to expect from ABA therapy. We have put together a list of helpful tips and

Your holidays may look a bit different and that is ok!

Holidays are a special time of year, filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, family feasts and much more. However, for children with autism and their families, holidays can be overwhelming. The added pressure of interacting with people we don’t see daily and the disruption in normal routines can be anxiety-provoking for most, especially children with