Mental Health and Self-Care: A Moment with Amber
Mental Health and Self-Care This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we're highlighting voices from within our own team. Meet Amber, one of our compassionate Behavioral Technicians. Amber shared one of her favorite self-care routines - and it's something warm, familiar, and comforting: baking and cooking. "Hi my name is Amber....
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Mental Health Matters at Autism F.I.R.S.T.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to pause, reflect, and uplift the families, caregivers, and children who work so hard every single day. Mental health is an essential piece of the puzzle — and it deserves just as much care and attention as any other aspect of development....
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Now Offering In-House Speech and Occupational Therapy Services
Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy Program Details Our licensed therapists are specially trained in pediatric care, using progressive and meaningful treatment methods to help children: Improve communication and language development Enhance sensory integration and motor skills Strengthen feeding and self-care abilities All services are delivered in a safe, familiar, and...
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Functional Communication Training
On March 19, 2025, the 7Q-Foundation will host a special training session on Functional Communication Training, led by Jenny Argueta from Autism F.I.R.S.T.. This event is designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals who support individuals with autism and want to learn practical strategies for enhancing communication skills. What to...
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Enhancing Social Skills
Why is Enhancing Social Skills Important? Social skills help children understand how to interact with others, express themselves, and respond to social cues. These abilities are key to forming friendships, participating in group activities, and building self-confidence. However, for neurodivergent children, socialization may look different—and that’s okay. At Autism F.I.R.S.T.,...
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Visual Aids for Communication and Learning
What Are Visual Aids? Visual aids are tools that use pictures, symbols, or written words to convey information. We use visual aids everyday! Referring to our calendars, post it notes, or even a birthday card posted on our refrigerator. These visual aids help us in our everyday lives. They do the...
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The Benefits of an ASD Diagnosis
Understanding the Importance of an Autism Diagnosis An autism diagnosis doesn’t define a child—it’s a tool that helps families understand their child’s unique strengths and challenges. With this understanding comes the ability to make informed decisions about care, education, and therapies. Benefits of an ASD Diagnosis Access to Services and...
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Sensory Processing in Autism: Essential Tips
Real-Life Impact Meet Alex, a bright and curious 5-year-old who experiences sensory challenges. Each morning, getting dressed for school is a struggle—not because Alex dislikes school, but because the act of getting dressed signals leaving the comfort of home, which can trigger maladaptive behaviors. These maladaptive behaviors can be running away...
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How Professionals Work Together to Support Sensory Needs in Autism
The Importance of Collaboration Every child has unique sensory needs that affect how they navigate their world. By combining the expertise of various professionals, a well-rounded, consistent strategy can be implemented, benefiting the child at home, school, and in the community. Collaboration ensures: A unified approach to sensory challenges. Consistency...
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Enhancing Social Skills in Children with Autism
At Autism F.I.R.S.T., we believe in empowering children with autism to develop their social skills in a supportive, structured environment. Our Social Skill Groups services provide tailored opportunities for children to learn, practice, and thrive in real-world social settings. Why Social Skills Are Important Social skills encompass a broad range...
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