Learning Center

Applied Behavioral Analysis A Is For Apple’s home-base and center-base program utilizes one-on-one, structured, teacher-directed instruction for children with autism. We utilize empirically validated techniques based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children “learn how to learn.”

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or AD/HD or ADD) is a developmental disorder. It is primarily characterized by "the co-existence of attentional problems and hyperactivity, with each behavior occurring infrequently alone" and symptoms starting before seven years of age. ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination. For these problems to be diagnosed as ADHD, they must be out of the normal range for a child’s age and development.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or AD/HD or ADD) is a developmental disorder. It is primarily characterized by "the co-existence of attentional problems and hyperactivity, with each behavior occurring infrequently alone" and symptoms starting before seven years of age. ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsivity, or a combination. For these problems to be diagnosed as ADHD, they must be out of the normal range for a child’s age and development.

The autism spectrum, also called autism spectrum disorders (ASD) or autism spectrum conditions (ASC), with the adjective autistic sometimes replacing the noun autism, is a spectrum of psychological conditions characterized by widespread abnormalities of social interactions and communication as well as restricted interests and repetitive behaviour

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes lifelong mental retardation, developmental delays and other problems. Down syndrome varies in severity, so developmental problems range from moderate to serious. Down syndrome is the most common genetic cause of learning disabilities in children. Increased understanding of Down syndrome and early interventions make a big difference in the lives of both children and adults with Down syndrome.

Discrete Trial Training. Part of ABA therapy, DTT breaks down complex skills into small, easily manageable steps so that skils can be more easily mastered by an individual with an ASD. Each trial is a sequence composed of three parts: a direction, a behavior and a consequence.

Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is a plan that is suited specifically for you and your family based on the needs of you and your child.

The IPG model was created by Pamela Wolfberg, Ph.D. out of deep concern for the many children who are missing out on peer play experiences as a vital part of childhood. The IPG model is grounded in current theory, research and practice pertinent to addressing core challenges in autism that impact on both social and representational aspects of play. While influenced by the work of Vygotsky, this mullti-dimensional model encompasses developmental and ecological features that are framed within sociocultural theory. Embedded in the model are practical tools and techniques for observing, interpreting, and building on children’s play interests and social communicative abilities, and for designing environments conducive to social and imaginative play. In practical terms, an IPG brings together children with autism (novice players) in mutually engaging play experiences with more capable peer play partners (expert players) while guided by a qualified adult facilitator (play guide). Each IPG is individualized as a part of a child’s comprehensive educational and therapy program. Play sessions are tailored to the unique interests, developmental capacities and sociocultural experiences of novice and expert players. Guided by sensitive assessments, the IPG intervention (guided participation) provides a system of support for maximizing each child’s developmental potential and intrinsic motivation to play, socialize and form meaningful relationships with other children. Equal emphasis is placed on guiding neurotypicals to be more accepting, responsive and inclusive of children who may present differing ways of playing, communicating and relating with others. Further, novice and expert players are encouraged to mediate their own play activities with minimal adult guidance.

Speech-language therapy is the treatment for most kids with speech and/or language disorders. A speech disorder refers to a problem with the actual production of sounds, whereas a language disorder refers to a difficulty understanding or putting words together to communicate ideas.

Occupational Therapy is the therapeutic use of self-care, work and play activities to increase independent function, enhance development and prevent disability; may include the adaptation of a task or the environment to achieve maximum independence and to enhance the quality of life. The term occupation, as used in occupational therapy, refers to any activity engaged in for evaluating, specifying and treating problems interfering with functional performance.

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a form of augmentative and alternative communication. It is typically used as an aid in communication for children with autism and other special needs. The system has been used with a variety of ages including preschoolers, adolescents and adults who have a wide array of communicative, cognitive and physical difficulties. Recent literature reviews have supported PECS as an evidence-based practice

Pivotal response therapy (PRT), also referred to as pivotal response treatment or pivotal response training, is a behavioral intervention therapy for autism. Pivotal response therapy advocates contend that behavior hinges on "pivotal" behavioral skills—motivation and the ability to respond to multiple cues—and that development of these skills will result in collateral behavioral improvements. In 2005, Richard Simpson of the University of Kansas identified Pivotal Response Treatment as one of the four scientifically based treatments for autism

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) is a trademarked proprietary treatment program for autism spectrum disorders (ASD), based on the belief that the development of dynamic intelligence is the key to improving the quality of life for individuals with autism. The program’s core philosophy is that individuals with autism can participate in authentic emotional relationships if they are exposed to them in a gradual, systematic way. The goal of treatment is to systematically build up the motivation and tools for successfully interacting in social relationships, to correct deficits in this area that are thought to be common to all people with autism.

Sensory integration disorder or dysfunction (SID) / Sensory Processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological disorder that results from the brain’s inability to integrate, process, and respond to certain information received from the body’s five basic sensory systems. These sensory systems are responsible for detecting sights, sounds, smell, tastes, temperatures, pain and the position and movements of the body. The brain then forms a combined picture of this information in order for the body to make sense of its surroundings and react to them appropriately. The ongoing relationship between behavior and brain functioning is called sensory integration (SI). Sensory integration provides a crucial foundation for later, more complex learning and behavior.

Social Stories are short stories written or tailored to an autistic individual to help them understand and behave appropriately in social situations. The stories have a specifically defined style and format. They describe a situation in terms of relevant social cues, the perspective of others, and often suggest an appropriate response.They may also be used to applaud accomplishments; roughly 50% of all Social Stories are targeted to be used for this reason. Social Stories are a relatively straightforward intervention

Speech-language therapy is the treatment for most kids with speech and/or language disorders. A speech disorder refers to a problem with the actual production of sounds, whereas a language disorder refers to a difficulty understanding or putting words together to communicate ideas.

Speech-language therapy is the treatment for most kids with speech and/or language disorders. A speech disorder refers to a problem with the actual production of sounds, whereas a language disorder refers to a difficulty understanding or putting words together to communicate ideas.

TEACCH stands for: Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children