Tag: autism spectrum therapies

Five Sensory-Friendly Places to Visit in and Around Norco, California

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Some places are simply easier places for families to go. 

They are not perfectly quiet or empty. They just feel manageable. Noise does not build too fast. Crowds tend to spread out instead of bunching up. There is room to walk, sit, or take a break without drawing attention. Families can stay for a short time or longer, depending on how a child is doing. 

Parents of children with sensory sensitivities learn which places work by experience. They notice where outings feel calmer and where things unravel quickly. Certain locations become dependable options they can return to. 

Norco has more of these places than people often realize. Its open spaces, trail systems, and slower pace create everyday spots where families can spend time together more comfortably. 

Here are five sensory-friendly places in and around Norco that families often return to. 

1. Santa Ana River Trail gives families room to move 

The Santa Ana River Trail runs along the edge of Norco with wide, paved paths. The trail feels open, and families can walk, use scooters, or simply sit and watch what is happening around them. Because the space does not change much from one section to the next, children can see what is coming. That consistency can make a big difference. 

Tip for families: Choose a short, familiar stretch and turn back when needed. Repeating the same section can help children feel more comfortable. 

2. The Ingalls Event Center offers laid-back ambiance  

The Ingalls Event Center reflects what Norco is known for: horses, open land, and a slower rhythm. It’s an agricultural, equestrian, and animal-keeping center where the grounds are spread out. On days without large events, families often walk the perimeter or watch riders from a distance. There is plenty to see without needing to join in. 

Tip for families: Check the event calendar before you go. Non-event mornings are usually quieter. 

3. Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is good for quiet outdoor time 

The Hidden Valley Wildlife Area sits in the Norco Hills and offers dirt trails, native plants, and wide views. There are no playgrounds or scheduled activities. Families set their own pace. Children who like to look at rocks, plants, or insects often do well here. There is no pressure to move quickly or cover a certain distance. 

Tip for families: Walk the same loop each visit. Predictable paths help reduce surprises. 

4. Norco College Library offers a quiet place to pause 

The Norco College Library provides a calm, organized space with clear expectations. Lighting stays even. Voices stay low. Families can read, sit together, or take a break from busier environments. Because it is on a college campus, the library often feels less crowded than public branches, especially outside class rush times. 

Tip for families: Midmorning tends to be the quietest time. Staff can help point out less busy seating areas. 

5. Pumpkin Rock Trail lets families control the outing 

The Pumpkin Rock Trail is a popular local hike, but it also works well for flexible outings. The trail is easy to follow and open enough that families can stop, take breaks, or turn back at any point. The scenery stays fairly consistent, which helps children stay comfortable without too much sensory input. 

Tip for families: Go earlier in the day, especially in warmer months, to avoid heavier foot traffic. 

Looking for more support? 

Getting out into the community is one piece of daily life. Ongoing support can help too. 

Families in Norco and nearby communities can connect with Autism Spectrum Therapies, (AST) part of LEARN Behavioral. Autism Spectrum Therapies provides applied behavior analysis therapy that reflects each child’s needs, strengths, and personality, both at home and in the community. 

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

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Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the opening of its new Chula Vista Learning Center at 660 Bay Blvd., Suite 110 & 111, Chula Vista, CA 91910.

AST provides contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) center-based autism services for children ages 1-12 years. The Chula Vista Learning Center provides center-based, in-home, and community-based ABA therapy and individualized programs, including Early Intervention, Social Skills Programs, and parent education.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families in the San Diego area and look forward to helping find success for every child in our care,” said Heather Link, M.A., BCBA, Regional Clinical Director.

Key Features of the Chula Vista Learning Center:

  • Large facility which includes an indoor gross motor spacefor physical and social development.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • A unique combination of center-based, in-home, and community-based services to best cater to families’ needs.
  • A school readiness program, as well as summer programs and school break camps. Social skills groups include Weekend Club and Friday Night Hang Out.
  • Flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children 1-12 years old and teen programs coming soon.
  • Conveniently located near Chula Vista Marina and easily accessible via I-5 and CA-94 for families in the region.

The center is now enrolling new clients based in greater San Diego with 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 Chula Vista Learning Center is AST’s second ABA therapy location in San Diego County. They also have a Learning Center in San Marcos and a corporate office in San Diego.

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

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 Azusa, CA.

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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.

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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.

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) Opens 5 New Learning Centers

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With over 20 years of experience providing compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy to children with autism, we’re delighted to share that we opened five new AST Learning Centers this past summer and fall in Fresno and San Marcos, California; Goodyear, Arizona; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Clackamas, Oregon. Each new center held an open house that included an official ribbon-cutting with their local Chamber of Commerce and opportunities for families to tour the facility, speak with the leadership team, and participate in fun activities. These new locations offer a supportive, learning-rich environment where children with autism can work on individual skills in a group setting.  

We couldn’t be more excited to support more families in the communities we serve. To learn more about where our services are located, find a location.  

A Fresh Approach: Empowering Children with Autism

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Written by Alison Spanoghe, Behavior Analyst, Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST)

When I first started working in a school system with children on the autism spectrum in the early 2000s, my leaders told me to stick to my instructions — no matter what. They told me this would be best for the children in the long run. As a newbie, I followed orders.

Often, though, that approach led to anger, tears, and resistance from the children who needed my help the most. Despite science backing up the “follow-my-orders” approach, it didn’t always feel “right.”

Today, my approach has evolved to something called “assent-based practice.” It’s a model that puts an end to instruction through coercion. It prioritizes the child’s agreement to participate in therapy rather than mandating that they follow orders.

The Old Way: Extinction

If you’re familiar with applied behavior analysis (ABA), you may have come across the term “extinction.” In simple terms, extinction means not reinforcing a previously reinforced behavior. The aim is to reduce the chances of that behavior happening again.

Let’s say your TV remote stops working. After a while, you’ll stop pressing the power button and maybe look for batteries or ask for help instead. The same principle applies to ABA services. If a certain behavior — like screaming — is not encouraged, the child will eventually stop doing it. You could then teach them a better way to communicate their needs instead of screaming.

While that might be good in theory, behavior isn’t always that straightforward. Also, the extinction approach can sometimes lead to other issues, like longer tantrums, aggression, or even distrust toward caregivers. That’s where assent-based practice comes in.

The New Way: Assent-Based Practice

Assent-based practice focuses on making sure the child agrees to take part in therapy — even if that agreement is nonverbal. When a child is actively engaged, that’s one indication that they are communicating that they agree with participating in treatment.

This type of approach involves:

  • Constant check-ins
  • Respecting when the child no longer wants to participate in treatment
  • Adapting the approach based on the child’s response
  • Teaching the child to communicate

The goal of this technique is to equip children with autism with skills that are useful in any situation. It also helps them advocate for themselves and make it clear when they want to say “no.” It’s more of a compassionate way of providing care.

Why Assent-Based Practice?

There are many benefits to using assent-based practice. It can:

  • Build Trust: It helps establish a safe and trusting relationship between the child and the therapist.
  • Promote Expression: The child learns that they are seen and heard. It encourages them to express their feelings.
  • Respect Autonomy: The child’s “no” is respected, promoting their dignity and independence.
  • Enhance Learning: This approach avoids standoffs. It allows more reinforcement of language use and engagement in the session.

Assent-based practice has become a popular topic in ABA services. It emphasizes getting the child’s agreement before continuing therapy. It teaches children to express their feelings. It also respects their dignity and independence.

Therapists can use this approach with any child at any time, leading to faster learning and better rapport with the child. While our understanding of assent-based practice continues to evolve, it is a worthwhile approach to consider because it puts the child first.

Alison Spanoghe is a behavior analyst with Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST).

Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) Opens New Learning Center in Bakersfield, CA

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With over 20 years of experience providing compassionate, contemporary ABA Therapy to children with autism, we’re delighted to share that we opened a new AST Learning Center this December in Bakersfield, CA. The new center held an open house that included an official ribbon-cutting with their local Chamber of Commerce and opportunities for families to tour the facility, speak with the leadership team, and participate in fun activities. This new location offers a supportive, learning-rich environment where children with autism can work on individual skills in a group setting.

We couldn’t be more excited to support more families in the communities we serve. To learn more about where our services are located, find a location.

Celebrating 15 Years!

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As we look back on 15 years of serving the autism community, we are filled with gratitude for the countless experience we have had with so many extraordinary people.  From our earliest clients and staff who believed in us, to the many new communities across multiple states – it has been a privilege and honor to share this journey.

When I entered the field of autism there were some services available to families but the quality of the service providers and the integrity with which services were provided was lacking. AST was born out of the desire to provide high quality services for families of children with autism. Our intention was to create a space that would attract the best talent and surround ourselves with professionals who were committed to making a meaningful difference. I cannot believe that it has been 15 years. It is so gratifying to see how far we have come and how widespread our services are now. I am so proud of the work we have done and so grateful to all of our staff for their dedication and hard work. I am especially honored that we have so many AST team members who have been with us for so many years and have helped us fulfill our mission.

Happy Anniversary AST! My wish for AST is that we continue to grow so that we can reach more families in need, while always striving to be our very best.

– Ronit Molko, President & Co-Founder of AST

To celebrate this special occasion, we want to share some of our favorite resources with you.