Anthony Ianni: The First Division I Basketball Player Diagnosed with Autism

Anthony Ianni was diagnosed with autism as a child, and like many, his parents were given dire predictions about his future. Despite being told he wouldn’t achieve anything in life, Anthony followed in his family’s love of sports and went on to become the first-known Division I player on the spectrum. He shares the challenges he faced, the support he received from his family and coaches, and his current role as a school administrator. Anthony also discusses his advocacy efforts to create sensory-friendly spaces in college arenas.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/first-division-1-basketball-player-diagnosed-with-autism

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Kalamazoo, MI, for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Outings with bright lights, loud noises, or large crowds can sometimes feel overwhelming for kids on the autism spectrum. 

Sensory-friendly options can help by offering quieter spaces with fewer distractions. 

Kalamazoo has several places that offer sensory-friendly activities for kids. From quiet trails to special movie showings, here are five to check out. 

1. Sensory-Friendly Screenings at Celebration Cinema Crossroads 

Celebration Cinema Crossroads in Portage offers Sensory Showtimes, where lights stay on, the sound is turned down, and kids are free to move around. Some families find it to be a more relaxed way to watch a movie, without the usual sensory overload. 

Tip for Families: Bring noise-canceling headphones or a comfort item to help your child settle in. Check the schedule in advance, as showtimes vary by location. 

2. Sensory Playtime at Jungle Joe’s Family Fun Center 

Jungle Joe’s Family Fun Center in Portage is an indoor play center with inflatables. They sometimes offer sensory-friendly sessions with dimmed lights, no loud music, and fewer kids. It can also be a good option if you go during off-peak hours. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about quieter times. Bring socks and something familiar to help your child feel comfortable. 

3. Quiet Exploration at Kalamazoo Nature Center 

The Kalamazoo Nature Center has quiet trails, wooded areas, and simple indoor exhibits. It’s a calm place for kids to explore without too much noise or distraction. Weekday mornings are usually the quietest. 

Tip for Families: Pack snacks, water, and a sensory tool or fidget for breaks. 

4. Sensory-Friendly Storytime at Kalamazoo Public Library 

The Kalamazoo Public Library’s Central Branch hosts events like Family Storytime and Sensory Shenanigans, which feature soft lighting, quiet voices, and predictable routines. These storytimes are designed to welcome all children, including those with sensory sensitivities. 

Tip for Families: Ask the staff about sensory-friendly programs and quiet areas. Midweek mornings tend to be the least crowded. 

5. Adaptive Swim Lessons at YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo 

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo offers adaptive swim lessons for kids with disabilities and sensory needs. Instructors are trained to create a calm, supportive space, and the lessons are flexible so each child can go at their own pace. It’s a great way for kids to build confidence in the water while feeling safe and supported. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about class times and details. Bring familiar swim gear or a comfort item to help your child feel more at ease. 

Creating a More Inclusive Community 

Finding sensory-friendly activities can make all the difference when planning family outings. These five places in and around Kalamazoo offer welcoming spaces where kids with sensory sensitivities can feel comfortable and included. 

These kinds of activities, like quiet walks, calm storytimes, or low-key play, can make it easier for kids to take part and enjoy what’s around them in a way that works for them. 

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly inspiration. 

Looking for additional support for your child in Kalamazoo, MI? At Total Spectrum, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in Kalamazoo and contact us today! 

LEARN Behavioral Opens Doors of New Autism Learning Center in Azusa, CA.

No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Los Angeles County Families

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Azusa Learning Center at 212 E. Foothill Blvd., Azusa, CA  91702.

AST is Azusa’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2-12 years. The new Azusa Learning Center provides center-based, in-home, and school-based ABA Therapy, early intervention, parent education, and a School Readiness Program.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families by expanding our services to Azusa and the greater Los Angeles area,” said Teresa Suen, M.A., BCBA, Regional Clinical Director. “We value being a part of the community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Azusa Learning Center:

  • Large facility with an indoor gross motor room for physical and social development.
  • ABA therapy, which includes an enriching environment, unique play-based learning spaces, a School Readiness Program, and one-on-one support.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours (which includes a Saturday make-up clinic) to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • On-site parking in a private, gated parking lot.
  • Serving children 2- 12 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near public transportation and easily accessible via I-210, I-605, and I-10, for families in the region.


The center is now enrolling new clients based in Azusa, Baldwin Park, Covina, Duarte, Glendora, Hacienda Heights, La Puente, Monrovia, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, West Covina, and the surrounding areas with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

About AST

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. The Azusa Learning Center is among AST’s ABA therapy locations in the Los Angeles area, with existing Learning Centers in Long Beach and San Gabriel.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Azusa Learning Center, call (866) 727-8274 or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/losangeles

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

LEARN Behavioral Opens Doors of New Autism Learning Center in Menifee, CA.

No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Riverside County Families

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Menifee Learning Center at 29950 Haun Road, Menifee, CA 92586.

AST is Menifee’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2-13 years. The new Menifee Learning Center provides center-based, in-home, and school-based ABA therapy, Social Skills Programs, and parent education.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families by expanding our services to Riverside County and the Inland Empire area,” said Joanie Gonzales, Center Director. “We value being a part of the community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Menifee Learning Center:

  • Large facility which includes an indoor soft playground for physical and social development.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Hybrid services. Center-based and in-home services, which are not common for providers.
  • Assent-based learning, child-focused, and parent education as part of therapy.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 2- 13 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near Menifee Community College and easily accessible via I-215 for families in the region.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in Banning, Corona, Hemet, Lake Elsinore, Menifee, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Palm Springs, Riverside, San Jacinto, and Temecula with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

About AST

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. The Menifee Learning Center is among AST’s ABA therapy locations in the Inland Empire, with existing Learning Centers in Riverside, Temecula, and Victorville, CA.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Menifee Learning Center, call (866) 727-8274 or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/inland-empire

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

LEARN Behavioral Opens Doors of New Autism Learning Center in New Bedford, MA.

No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Bristol County Area Families

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new New Bedford Learning Center at 392 Acushnet Ave, New Bedford, MA 02740.

BCI is New Bedford’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2-6 years. The New Bedford Learning Center provides early intervention, center-based and in-home ABA therapy, diagnostic services, after-school and weekend services, and parent education.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families by expanding our services in the South Coast region,” said Aerin Parish-Toscano, MS, BCBA, LABA, Regional Clinical Director. “We value being a part of the New Bedford community and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the New Bedford Learning Center:

  • Large facility which includes an indoor gross motor space for physical and social development.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours (after-school hours, weekend hours, and full-day/half-day hours) to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 2- 6 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located near downtown; accessible by public transportation and walkable from many local schools.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in Attleboro, Brockton, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, New Bedford, Raynham, Seekonk, Somerset, and Taunton with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

In addition to the New Bedford Learning Center, BCI has existing center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lawrence, Lowell, Newton, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the New Bedford Learning Center, call (508) 363-0200 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/new-bedford

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

LEARN Behavioral Opens New Autism Learning Center in Milwaukee, WI.

No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Milwaukee County Area Families

Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP) and Total Spectrum, providers of LEARN Behavioral, are proud to announce the grand opening of its new Milwaukee Learning Center at 5369 N 118th Court, Milwaukee, WI 53225.

WEAP and Total Spectrum are Milwaukee’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children. The new Milwaukee Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, in-home ABA therapy, diagnostics, and Youth Club and Social Skills Programs.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held with the Greater Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce in September 2025. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the facility and meet the leadership team, including Heather Bania, WEAP Senior Regional Clinical Director – Milwaukee Region; Brooke Marcellis, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, Total Spectrum Regional Clinical Director – Wisconsin; Mary Smith, BCBA, Vice President Clinical Services; and Hannah Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Chief Clinical Officer.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families by expanding our services to greater Milwaukee area,” said Heather Bania, WEAP Senior Regional Clinical Director – Milwaukee Region. “We value being a part of the Milwaukee community and look forward to collaborating with fellow organizations and professionals to help find success for every child in our care.” 

Key Features of the Milwaukee Learning Center:

  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Diagnostic and center-based services in the city of Milwaukee.
  • SMART Board room, indoor gym, and outdoor playground.
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children ages 2-6 with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located and easily accessible via I-41 for families in the region.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in Milwaukee County with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.

About WEAP & Total Spectrum

WEAP and Total Spectrum, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, are two of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. Together, they have provided evidence-based autism services for over 30 years and are dedicated to delivering personalized ABA therapy, helping children and families find success.

The Milwaukee Learning Center is WEAP and Total Spectrum’s sixth center-based ABA therapy location in the Greater Milwaukee area. The companies already have Learning Centers in Glendale, Oak Creek, Brookfield, Mount Pleasant, and West Bend, WI.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Milwaukee Learning Center, call (262) 432-5660 or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/milwaukee.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Behavioral Concepts New Learning Center Now Open in Lawrence, MA

No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Essex County Area Families

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, has recently opened the doors of their new Learning Center at 360 Merrimack Street, Suite 132, Lawrence, MA 01843.

BCI is Lawrence’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2-6 years. The new Lawrence Learning Center provides parent education, diagnostics, Early Intervention, center-based ABA therapy, and in-home ABA therapy.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce was held on June 23, 2025. During the ceremony, Ana Levy, Councilor at Large, City of Lawrence, offered greetings and remarks. State Representative Francisco Paulino, Mayor Brian A. DePeña, Michael Bevilacqua, President/CEO of Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce, and District Director Marina Acosta from Senator Pavel Payano’s office attended, along with a number of city council members, school committee members, and Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commercemembers.

Official citations were presented to the BCI leadership team by Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Michael Bevilacqua and Chairman Michael Sullivan, the Lawrence City Council representatives, and the City of Lawrence Mayor Brian A. DePena.

Ribbon-cutting attendees had an opportunity to tour the facility and meet BCI’s leadership team, Meghan Van Nostrand, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D, Senior Regional Clinical Director and Ashley Williams, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LABA, Vice President.

“We are excited to open our doors and bring compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder to families in Essex County and beyond,” said Meghan Van Nostrand, Senior Regional Clinical Director at BCI. “We value being a part of the Lawrence community and look forward to collaborating with fellow organizations and professionals to help find success for every child in our care.” 

The new Lawrence Learning Center provides center-based contemporary ABA therapy, as well as family treatment guidance and assessment in the city of Lawrence. There are very few ABA centers in Lawrence. The Learning Center serves children 2- 6 years old with personalized therapy plans.

With no waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules, the center is now enrolling new clients in the Essex County area and beyond.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

The Lawrence Learning Center is BCI’s fourteenth center-based ABA therapy location, with existing Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lowell, New Bedford, Newton, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Lawrence Learning Center, call 508-281-9411 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/lawrence

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

SPARKS ABA Learning Center Now Open in Waldorf

No Waitlist and Expanded Year-Round Services for Charles County Area Families

SPARKS ABA, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, has recently opened the doors of their new Learning Center at 11885 Holly Lane, Suites 1 & 2, Waldorf, MD 20601.

SPARKS ABA is Maryland’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and adolescents ages 2-14 years. As the only ABA provider in the Waldorf region, this center is essential for enhancing local support for families.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Charles County Chamber of Commerce was held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. During the ceremony, Maryland State Senator Arthur Ellis and Yonelle Moore Lee, Esq., Chairperson, Board of Education, Charles County Public Schools, shared greetings and offered remarks. Churon Lanier, Legislative Director of the Office of Delegate C.T. Wilson, Chairman, Economic Matters Committee, also spoke.

Official citations were presented to the SPARKS leadership team by Anthony Adesina, Business Retention and Expansion Manager at the Charles County Chamber of Commerce, and Ralph Patterson, Vice President of the Charles County Board of Commissioners.

Guests included members of the Charles County Chamber of Commerce, Arthur Ellis, Charles County State Senate Representative, Yonelle More Lee, Chairperson of the Charles County Board of Education, representatives from Charles County Parks and Recreation, and Chanel Smith, Kidz Kab Express Founder and CEO.

Ribbon-cutting attendees had an opportunity to tour the facility and meet SPARKS ABA’s leadership team, Angela Chang, MA, BCBA, LBA, Managing Behavior Analyst, Kayla Bagnato, MEd, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director, and Geneviève Marshall, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, Senior Regional Director.

“We are thrilled to open our doors and bring compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to families in Waldorf and the surrounding areas,” said Kayla Bagnato. “Through highly personalized support, we aim to empower each child and young adult to gain independence to succeed in school and life and reach their highest potential.”

The new Waldorf Learning Center offers a modern environment for children to receive contemporary ABA therapy, parent education, and center-based services. The center also features an innovative Launchpad Learning Program, which focuses on children with autism ages 2 to 6 who are ready to transition from a one-on-one learning environment to a group setting to help prepare them for school. With Launchpad, half the day involves group activities with a 3:1 staff-child ratio, developing team skills and independence, and the other half of the day focuses on individual instruction, addressing personal growth areas.

With no waitlist and flexible treatment hours that include after-school evening hours to accommodate busy family schedules, the center is now enrolling new clients in the Charles County area and beyond.

SPARKS ABA, part of LEARN Behavioral, a national leader in compassionate autism treatment, has been a leading provider of evidence-based autism services for 15 years. SPARKS ABA is dedicated to personalized, high-quality ABA therapy.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Waldorf Learning Center, call (240) 222-7956 or visit https://www.sparksaba.com

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of research-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Why Wandering Is a Serious Risk for Kids With Autism, Especially in Summer 

 For many families raising a child with autism, one of the biggest fears is a child slipping away. That might mean walking out the front door, leaving the playground or disappearing into a crowd. This behavior, often called “wandering” or “elopement,” can happen in a matter of seconds. It’s more than stressful. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. 

Summer brings even more opportunities for this to happen. Routines shift, outings increase, and kids are often near water, one of the biggest safety hazards for children with autism. Understanding why wandering happens and how to prevent it can help families stay prepared and safe. 

What Is Wandering? 

Wandering happens when a child leaves a safe place without permission or supervision. This can include leaving home, school, a playground, or a caregiver in public. 

In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it’s especially common. A 2012 study in Pediatrics found that nearly half of children with autism had tried to wander or run away at least once after age 4. Of those, 26% were missing long enough to cause concern. 

The reasons vary. Some children may seek out a place they enjoy, such as water. Others may run to escape overwhelming sounds, sights, or situations. But no matter the cause, the risk is high. 

Why Summer Brings Added Risk 

Wandering can happen any time of year, but summer adds new layers of risk. Families are more likely to be out of their routines, exploring new places, or visiting pools, lakes, and beaches. New environments can be exciting, disorienting, or overstimulating for kids with autism. 

Water presents the greatest danger. According to the National Autism Association, accidental drowning accounted for 71% of all deaths resulting from wandering in children with autism under age 15. 

And it can happen fast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it takes as little as 20 seconds for a child to drown. 

Safety Strategies That Can Help 

Many families aren’t told about wandering risks when their child is first diagnosed. But there are proactive steps that can help reduce danger. 

Swim lessons are one of the most effective strategies. Some insurance plans may cover swim lessons for children with autism as part of behavioral treatment. Read more in Why Swimming and Water Play Benefit Kids with ASD

Families can also partner with a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to teach safety skills. BCBAs can support children in tolerating wearable tracking devices, reducing bolting behaviors, and recognizing safe adults or “community helpers.” 

Other tools include: 

  • Personal ID wristbands or GPS trackers 
  • Secure fencing or home alarms 
  • Creating emergency plans with neighbors 
  • Registering with local police or Smart911.com, which lets families share medical or behavioral information that pops up for 911 dispatchers 

Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind 

Not every child with autism wanders. But for those who do, preparation can save lives. 

Summer outings should be fun, not stressful. These 4 Steps to Swim Safety for Your Child with Autism offer practical tips families can use right away. 

For more information on wandering and autism safety planning, visit the National Autism Association’s Big Red Safety Toolkit. 

Understanding the Autistic and ADHD Nervous System

Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a neurodivergent psychologist (autistic & ADHD) and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, returns to discuss the complexities of the nervous system, particularly autism and ADHD. She helps us understand the difference between sympathetic and parasympathetic responses, the concept of flooding, and the various triggers that can lead to stress responses. Dr. Neff also offers helpful strategies for nervous system regulation and the concept of the ‘window of tolerance’ and how it affects emotional regulation. This discussion is fascinating and valuable for caregivers and anyone with a nervous system.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/understanding-the-autistic-and-adhd-nervous-system

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.