The countdown to a new school year is on. Many children are excited at the prospect of school starting, but others feel a little more uncertain. School brings a complete change in routine, unfamiliar faces, and a new set of expectations. This can create a lot of anxiety in children with autism who thrive on predictability. The transition from summer to school days can go a little more smoothly with thoughtful preparation, though. A Little Conversation Goes A Long Way Instead

Summer is winding down, which means a new school year is on the horizon. Soon, you’ll be heading with your child to their official Back-to-School night to meet their teacher and explore the environment. The night can sometimes feel a little overwhelming, but ultimately it’s a great opportunity to become better prepared for the upcoming year. Plan ahead with a list of questions to ask your child’s teachers so you’ll feel more confident and prepared for the school days to come.

Every single child has their own set of strengths amidst their challenges. With so much time working toward overcoming those challenges, it’s easy for your child’s strengths to fade into the background. When you take the time to recognize their strengths, it helps you understand them better as an individual while also boosting their confidence in themselves.

The Fourth of July is thought of as a day of celebration, full of fun, food, and fireworks. Many people look forward to this day each year, but it’s not a positive experience for everyone. For a child with autism, the traditional Independence Day festivities can result in more overwhelm than excitement. They may have to contend with crowds, unfamiliar faces, loud music, strong smells, booming fireworks, and routine disruption. Instead of a day of fun and celebration, it can b

Easter is an exciting, meaningful holiday with plenty of opportunity for fun. But beyond the colorful eggs, sweet treats and family time, there are opportunities to sneak ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) strategies into classic Easter fun to create meaningful, stress-free learning moments.

Communication is one of the most common concerns parents have when it comes to their autistic child. Understanding the different methods can help parents see more clearly how their child might already be trying to communicate with them.

ABA Therapy isn't just about behavior. It's about understanding the reason for the behavior and building skills that can improve daily life.

Children with autism may express affection and connection in ways that differ from what some may consider traditional methods such as hugging or saying words like “I love you.” That doesn’t mean that they don’t feel that love, it just means they communicate in their own way.

The Thanksgiving holiday is all about celebrating the things we are grateful for. While some express that gratitude loudly and proudly, it may look different for families who are navigating autism. In ABA Therapy, we strongly encourage celebrating even the small wins and being thankful for any sign of progress.

While not many people are excited about the concept of homework, it is an inevitable part of school life - one that can easily become a battle. Luckily, there are simple ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) strategies that can help mitigate some of that stress.

Sometimes children need extra support at school, but navigating that topic can be overwhelming and confusing. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone, and resources are available to help your child thrive.

While discussing your child’s situation can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to advocate for your child’s needs. It’s not just about asking for services, it’s about building a bridge between home, ABA Therapy and school so things stay as consistent as possible, helping your child thrive within every environment.

The idea of offering a reward in exchange can definitely feel like a bribe, but there is in fact quite a bit of difference between reinforcement and bribery. Understanding that difference can improve understanding and shift the way you approach behavior at home.

The start of a new school year is guaranteed to bring up challenges, but it also brings plenty of opportunities for growth. By preparing now, you can make the transition a bit easier on everyone. Keep reading for five practical tips to help support your child’s success beginning a new school year.

Some kids have a natural ability to easily make friends and connect with their peers. For children with autism, however, it can be a little more difficult. Social interactions can be confusing and overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean that they want the connection any less. It just means that they may need support and encouragement to learn the best ways for them to engage with others.

Behaviors can cause confusion, concern and frustration, especially when they seem to pop up out of nowhere. The truth is, however, that is generally always a reason behind the behavior, even if it doesn’t seem logical to anyone else.

At Bloom Behavioral Healthcare, we focus on building functional communication through ABA Therapy. What this means is we work to teach your child the skills they need to communicate their wants, needs, feelings and thoughts in a way that is both comfortable for them and done in a way others can understand.

Part of our mission at Bloom Behavioral Healthcare is to help children develop their own sense of independence, however that may look. We believe it’s not just about the big milestones, but also lies in the daily moments that build up to foster confidence, communication and self-reliance. This 4th of July week, we’re here to celebrate and elaborate on the many ways ABA Therapy can support your child in building a life they can navigate more freely.

With the proper planning and support, your family can enjoy the 4th of July holiday in a way that feels safe, fun and comfortable for all. Follow these sensory-friendly tips for a more joyful Independence Day:

If you’re ready to start exploring the world of ABA therapy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at the beginning. There are a lot of options to choose from, and as a parent we know you want to find the best option for your child.