News

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused cancellations in summer camp, summer school, child care, sports, hobbies, vacations, and social opportunities. For parents of kids with autism, this can feel like a disaster!

Not only are these kids losing the chance to practice their communication and social skills, they are missing the routine and structure that they need.

Behavior therapy and consultation programs provide structure to kids with autism while also teaching new skills to improve language, learning, social skills, and play.

Parents in our ABA programs also learn to prevent and respond to tantrums and inflexibility. By setting up a summer ABA program, parents can ensure that their child maintains skills and also makes progress toward new goals!

Patterson Behavior Services is offering both in-person and virtual therapeutic summer programs. Each child’s program is personalized to his or her family life and unique needs.

In-Person Programs for Maintaining Routine

As an essential healthcare service, some ABA therapy programs have continued in-person services throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Families and providers follow CDC guidelines, as well as some extra precautions related to hand washing and social distance.

While each child’s program is completely unique, here is an example of a schedule and goals we might work on during an in-person session:

Morning Meeting

• Following a visual schedule
• Planning and preparing for activities
• Describing plans and events

Structured Learning

• Labeling and receptive language
• Visual-perceptual skills
• Executive function skills
• Academic and independent work skills

Lunchtime

• Improving picky eating
• Table manners
• Requesting and labeling
• Participating in social conversation

Break Time

• Potty training
• Leisure and play skills
• Sensory play

Exercise and Outdoor Activities

• Motor skills
• Cooperative play and sportsmanship
• Transitioning appropriately

Structured Play

• Following directions
• Pretend play
• Social play
• Independent hobbies

Virtual Programs for Social Distance

For children whose families need to or would prefer to maintain social distance this summer, we offer telehealth programs focused on building routines, improving communication, and strengthening family relationships.

In video sessions, we work with both parents and children. While each program is completely unique, here is an example of goals we might work on during a telehealth session:

• Sticking to routines
• Age-appropriate communication
• Receptive and expressive language
• Social skills with siblings and peers
• Family relationships
• Decreasing tantrums

Together, we can help your child make progress this summer!

Contact us for a free consultation by texting “Free Consultation” to 571-317-1446. You can also read more about our compassionate and thoughtful programs; we create plans for every age and ability!