Tag: autism support

Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity

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FEATURED POSTS

Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity
July 2, 2026
5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Roxbury, Massachusetts 
July 1, 2026
5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Greenfield, Wisconsin 
June 30, 2026
What is the WIBA ABA Conference?
June 12, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Cindy Ariel explores relationships involving autistic and neurodivergent individuals, drawing from her book Autism and the Two of Us. She discusses how differences in communication, social expectations, and processing styles can create challenges and opportunities for deeper understanding. Dr. Ariel shares practical strategies for navigating conflict, fostering vulnerability, and building stronger connections through curiosity, negotiation, and appreciation. This conversation offers insights into creating more compassionate and meaningful partnerships.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/autism-and-the-two-of-us

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

Help Your Child Build Friendships With Kids With Autism

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The following is an interview published by Chicago Parent with LEARN Behavioral Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Hanna Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D.

By: Claire Charlton

Your child likely has the opportunity to build friendships with kids on the autism spectrum. How can you help cultivate these unique relationships?

This back-to-school season, your child is settling into a new routine alongside children of many abilities, and as they are making new friends, now is a great time to encourage them to reach out and build a friendship with a child with autism. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, your child’s classroom, cafeteria, chess club, or ballet class will likely include a child with autism, says Hanna Rue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Chief Clinical Officer with LEARN Behavioral.

Current statistics show that 1 in 31 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) — for boys, the prevalence is four times higher and numbers vary from state to state, according to data from the CDC. “I’m never surprised when a parent comes to me and says their child has met a peer with typical autism characteristics in the classroom,” says Dr. Rue.

Kids with autism have strengths and challenges just like their neurotypical peers and can bring a lot of value to a friendship. “What I have found is that neurotypical kids are amazed that some kids with autism have the same special interests as they do,” Dr. Rue says. “Maybe they are passionate about zoo animals and can provide all sorts of information that neurotypical kids are impressed by.”

Each child is different and not every child mixes well with groups of peers. A child with autism is often able to look past differences or idiosyncrasies that can put off neurotypical peers, which makes them a good source of friendship for kids who struggle to fit in, Dr. Rue says.

While it may appear that kids with autism prefer to play alone, they really do enjoy companionship and sharing their interests with others. Here, Dr. Rue shares some wisdom about how to help your child build friendships with kids with autism.

How to make it happen

A child with autism may experience sensory sensitivities that neurotypical peers can empathize with. Loud noises, loud music, bright lights, even transitioning between activities can present challenges for some children.

“Sometimes a child with autism has challenges with communication and that can cause distress on either side,” Dr. Rue says. “I always tell folks if they are working with kids to develop friendships to allow for plenty of warm-up time.”

When planning a playdate, take it slow. Show your child’s new friend a quiet room in your home where they can take a break if needed, and recognize that if they take this break, it likely signals that they are overwhelmed, not disinterested. Communicate to your own child that everyone is frightened or overstimulated by something at some point and help them recognize their own fears or needs.

“I have seen some amazing pure human kindness across developmental stages,” says Dr. Rue. “When a child with autism has a meltdown, their friend can just sit and be in close proximity. They recognize independently that their friend is having a hard time. Or they assist with transitions through prompts like ‘follow me, sit at my table for lunch, hold my hand so you don’t get lost.’ Kids are pretty intuitive and can recognize that just being there and showing the way is a huge help.”

Parent encouragement can help blossoming friendships grow. Here’s what parents can do to support their children as they make and sustain friendships with kids with autism.

Talk about diversity early and often

When a parent is aware of their own child’s developmental level, they are better prepared to help them make friendships with anyone — and be inclusive on the playground and in the classroom, Dr. Rue says. This is best achieved by talking about differences on a regular basis.

“It’s important to introduce your child to diversity, especially if you live in an area where there isn’t a lot of diversity,” she says. “Read books, watch videos, and have open conversations about differences. In addition to talking about skin color, you can talk about different ways that kids communicate with each other, including the idiosyncrasies of flapping, body rocking, and squealing because this is a way of expressing joy or frustration.”

Model inclusive friendships

“We always have lots of opportunities to interact with other humans in our communities, from the playgrounds to the grocery stores,” Dr. Rue says. “This is the time to model appropriate interactions and show empathy, and then discuss it with your child.”

For younger kids, Dr. Rue is a big fan of Sesame Street’s inclusion of a character named Julia. “Julia has autism and I love for parents of neurotypical kids to watch Sesame Street with younger children and talk about Julia and how she is different. It’s a great opportunity for a shared moment of watching and talking about differences and acceptance.”

Offer a sympathetic ear to the child’s parents

Parenting a child with autism is stressful. “Research suggests that they experience more stress on a daily basis than parents of a child with a terminal illness. That’s a lot. Any small gesture, like saying hi or offering coffee or even just sitting and listening. Being an ear is very helpful,” Dr. Rue says.

Finally, have patience. Playdates can be easy but allow time for your child and their new friend to experience similar interests over a few visits. Help the other parent know that you understand and won’t give up after one meltdown or challenge.

“It’s so important to recognize that individuals with autism are all around us, doing great things,” says Dr. Rue. “We need to embrace that and learn about how to be supportive.”

For more school-related content, check out our blogs, “Five Steps to Help Your Child with Autism Make Friends” and “Back to School: Homework Tips.”

Understanding Autism Symbols: Meaning, History, and How They’re Used Today

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Symbols help people communicate ideas quickly and create shared understanding. In the autism community, symbols have long been used to promote awareness, signal support, and encourage conversation. Over time, as understanding of autism has expanded through research, advocacy, and lived experience, the symbols used to represent autism have also evolved.

Today, there is no single image that represents every individual or family. Instead, a variety of symbols are used across schools, clinics, community organizations, and digital spaces. Exploring autism symbol history helps provide context for why different images exist and how they are used today across different settings.

This blog explores the history of autism symbols, the most commonly used imagery today, and best practices for choosing symbols that reflect dignity, inclusion, and respect for individuals with autism and their families.

A Brief History of Autism Symbols

The use of symbols to represent autism developed alongside early public awareness efforts. In the mid-20th century, autism was not widely understood, and outreach focused primarily on education and recognition. During this period, symbols were often used to introduce the public to autism and provide a visual reference point for learning and discussion.

As research advanced and diagnostic criteria became more clearly defined, autism awareness expanded beyond clinical settings. Symbols began appearing in educational materials, fundraising campaigns, and community events. Over time, these visuals became familiar to families, educators, and service providers and played a role in shaping early autism education efforts.

Understanding autism symbol history means recognizing that these images reflect the knowledge, language, and priorities of the time in which they were created. As conversations around autism have continued to grow and change, new symbols and designs have emerged to reflect evolving perspectives on inclusion, accessibility, and quality of life.

A Widely Recognized Autism Awareness Symbol

The puzzle piece is one of the earliest and most widely recognized symbols associated with autism. First introduced in the 1960s, it became closely associated with early autism education and public awareness efforts at a time when understanding of autism was still emerging.

Over the decades, the puzzle piece appeared in informational materials, advocacy campaigns, and community programs, becoming a familiar autism awareness symbol for many families, educators, and service providers. For some, it represents early recognition and the growth of autism-related resources and services.

Today, the puzzle piece continues to appear in certain contexts, often paired with language that emphasizes respect, support, and inclusion. As with any symbol, its meaning is shaped by how it is used, the audience it serves, and the values communicated alongside it.

Key considerations when using autism symbols include:

  • Familiarity: Some imagery is widely recognized and easy to identify
  • Audience: Interpretation may vary depending on community and setting
  • Intent: Symbols are most effective when paired with respectful, person-centered language

Common Autism Symbols Used Today

In addition to historically recognized imagery, many other symbols are commonly used to represent autism and the autism spectrum. These designs often emphasize individuality, diversity, and connection.

Rainbow Infinity Symbol

The rainbow infinity symbol is frequently used to represent the wide range of experiences across the autism spectrum. Its continuous shape reflects lifelong identity, while its colors highlight diversity and individuality.

Gold (“Au”) Imagery

Gold imagery, based on the chemical symbol “Au,” is often used in autism-related visibility efforts. Gold themes may appear in ribbons, pins, graphics, and educational materials and are commonly associated with recognition and community connection.

Spectrum-Inspired Designs

Abstract spectrum designs use gradients, flowing shapes, or geometric patterns to reflect variation and uniqueness. These visuals are often used in digital platforms and educational resources.

Heart and Community Motifs

Heart symbols and community-focused imagery are commonly used to express care, support, and connection. These designs highlight relationships and shared understanding.

There is no single official autism awareness symbol. Many organizations and families choose imagery that aligns with their values, audience, and goals.

Why Autism Symbols Matter

Symbols influence how messages are received and understood. In autism-related education and outreach, they can help promote awareness, encourage conversation, and signal support.

Autism symbols are frequently used during awareness and recognition efforts—particularly in April—across social media, schools, clinics, workplaces, and community events. When an autism awareness symbol is paired with clear explanations and meaningful actions, it can reinforce messages of respect, accessibility, and inclusion.

Symbols are most impactful when they are supported by inclusive practices and real-world efforts to support individuals with autism and their families.

Best Practices for Using Autism Symbols

Choosing autism symbols thoughtfully helps ensure they communicate the intended message clearly and respectfully.

Engage Individuals with Autism and Families

Including individuals with autism and family members in discussions about imagery provides valuable insight and helps ensure materials are relevant and respectful.

Clarify Your Purpose

Determine whether your goal is education, awareness, or community support. Your purpose should guide symbol selection and messaging.

Use Respectful, Strengths-Based Language

Symbols should be paired with language that emphasizes dignity, strengths, and access to support rather than focusing on limitations.

Design for Accessibility

Ensure materials are accessible by using high-contrast colors, readable fonts, alt text for images, captions for videos, and clear layouts.

Pair Symbols with Action

Imagery should be connected to tangible efforts such as training, accommodations, educational resources, or partnerships.

Adapt to the Setting

Different environments—schools, clinics, workplaces, and digital platforms—may require different approaches to imagery and messaging.

Using Autism Symbols in Schools, Clinics, and Workplaces

Symbols are most effective when they are part of broader efforts to support understanding and inclusion.

Schools

Schools can introduce symbols alongside age-appropriate explanations and pair them with inclusive teaching strategies, sensory-friendly options, and staff training.

Clinics

In clinical settings, autism symbols should align with respectful, family-centered care. Imagery can help create welcoming environments and support clear communication about services.

Workplaces

In workplaces, symbols can signal inclusive values when paired with flexible policies, clear communication practices, and accessibility accommodations.

Across all settings, explaining what a symbol represents and how it connects to meaningful support helps reinforce trust.

Language and Imagery: Supporting Respectful Representation

Symbols are only one part of how autism is represented. Language and visuals together shape understanding. Thoughtful wording helps ensure messages reflect dignity, autonomy, and respect.

  • Center lived experience by including perspectives from individuals with autism
  • Be specific when describing supports and accommodations
  • Avoid stereotypes or fear-based narratives
  • Invite ongoing feedback from families and the autism community

Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Symbols

Is there one official autism awareness symbol?
No. Multiple symbols are used today, and choice often depends on audience, setting, and purpose.

Why do different organizations use different symbols?
Symbol selection reflects organizational values, goals, and the communities being served.

What colors are commonly used in autism symbols?
Rainbow palettes emphasize diversity, gold imagery is commonly used in awareness efforts, and high-contrast designs support accessibility.

Can symbols be combined?
Yes. Combining design elements can help personalize materials while remaining inclusive and clear.

How can symbols support inclusion beyond awareness?
When paired with education, accessibility, and supportive practices, symbols help promote understanding and meaningful inclusion.

Key Takeaways

  • Autism symbol history reflects evolving understanding, advocacy, and community perspectives
  • Multiple autism symbols are used today, each with historical and contextual significance
  • Symbols are most effective when paired with respectful language and authentic support
  • Accessibility and community input should guide imagery choices
  • True inclusion is reflected in action, not just visibility

By choosing autism symbols thoughtfully, society can communicate dignity, belonging, and meaningful support for individuals with autism and their families.

Looking for support that goes beyond awareness? At LEARN, we believe inclusion is reflected in the care, partnership, and progress we build with families every day. Learn more about our compassionate autism care and how we support children and families across our communities by visiting our website.

Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Green Bay, WI with Ribbon-Cutting Celebration

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WEAP welcomes families to their new location.

Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), provider of LEARN Behavioral, officially opened the doors of its new Green Bay Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Hosted by the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at WEAP’s new location at 3189 Voyager Drive, Green Bay, WI, on April 30, 2026.

During the ceremony, Senator André Jacque and Mayor Eric Genrich shared remarks. Annika Osell, Member Engagement Manager of the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce, and Ben Delie, Alderman for District 10, also shared remarks. Members of the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet WEAP’s leadership team: Kerry Hoops, MA, BCBA, Regional Clinical Director; Samantha Bernard, Associate Regional Director; and Jamie Schuh, BCBA, Community Director for Green Bay.

“We’re honored to be part of this community and grateful to offer life-changing services right here in Green Bay,” said Samantha Bernard. “Our new Learning Center was designed to support both individual growth and peer collaboration. It’s a place where children can gain essential skills—and where their journey toward success in school and life begins.”

“We are deeply committed to helping families thrive and honored to have such wonderful community support of our mission,” said Kerry Hoops.

Wisconsin Early Autism Project’s Green Bay team welcomes families to their new location at 3189 Voyager Drive, Green Bay.

No Waitlist and Flexible Treatment Hours

WEAP is Wisconsin’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children. The new Green Bay Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, Early Intervention and School Readiness Programs, and behavioral sleep assessment. The center serves children ages 18 months to 6 years old. Special features of the Green Bay Learning Center include a SMART Board room, school readiness areas, gross motor space, and a large indoor play area. Outside of the center, the Green Bay team offers in-home ABA therapy. There is no waitlist, and flexible treatment hours are available to accommodate busy family schedules.

Open House in June

Families are invited to a sensory-friendly open house at the Green Bay Learning Center on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This carnival-themed event will feature engaging, summer-inspired activities for the whole family to enjoy in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Green Bay Learning Center, call (920) 338-1610 or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/greenbay

About WEAP

WEAP, celebrating over 30 years, has become a world-renowned leader in early diagnosis and treatment for children with autism. Their evidence-based approach to care has helped thousands of children with autism throughout Wisconsin. 

WEAP has center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Altoona, Beloit, Brookfield, De Pere, Glendale, Janesville, Madison, Madison South, Menomonie, Milwaukee (Menomonee Falls),Mount Pleasant, Oak Creek, Oshkosh, Reedsburg, Sheboygan, Stevens Point, Sun Prairie, and West Bend. WEAP continues to expand and will open the doors of its Greenfield Learning Center later this year.

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.

Water Safety and Autism: What Families Need to Know

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In this episode, Dr. Molly O’Shea joins us to discuss the critical importance of water safety for all children, with special attention to the unique considerations for children with autism and other neurodivergent learners. With over 30 years in pediatrics, Dr. O’Shea has spent her career as a speaker, media consultant, journalist, and founder of Birmingham Pediatrics.

Dr. O’Shea shares practical strategies families can use to reduce the risk of drowning, including the importance of active supervision, designated “water watchers,” preparation before water activities, and teaching children essential water safety skills early and often.

The conversation also explores the value of swim lessons, why continuous exposure to water helps build confidence and competence, and the risks of relying too heavily on floatation devices. Dr. O’Shea discusses sensory-friendly swim programs, ways to find the right fit for your child, and how swimming can become both a lifelong safety skill and a source of enjoyment.

Tune in for an important conversation that could help save lives.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/water-safety-and-autism

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Kalamazoo, MI with Ribbon Cutting Celebration

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Total Spectrum welcomes families to their new location.

Total Spectrum, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to open its doors with a ribbon-cutting celebration at its new Kalamazoo Learning Center, 1722 Shaffer St., Suite 4, Kalamazoo, MI, 49048.

A ribbon-cutting celebration hosted by the Southwest Michigan First Chamber of Commerce was held on April 22, 2026.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Clarence Lloyd, Vice President of the Southwestern Michigan First Chamber, and Mayor David Anderson shared greetings and remarks.

Members of the Southwest Michigan First Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet Total Spectrum’s leadership team, Melissa Furman, MA, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director, and Trisha Johnson, MA, BCBA, Senior Regional Director.

“We’re proud to expand our reach and bring compassionate, high-quality ABA therapy to more families in the greater Kalamazoo area,” said Melissa Furman, Regional Clinical Director. “At Total Spectrum, we tailor our services to each child and family—offering age-appropriate, engaging learning experiences rooted in science and guided by care.”

Total Spectrum is Michigan’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and young adults ages 2-21 years. The new Kalamazoo Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, early learner and school readiness programs, Social Skills Programs, and parent education. Outside of the center, the Kalamazoo team offers in-home ABA therapy. 

Left to right:  Allie Bierling, Managing Behavior Analyst; Mayor David Anderson; Melissa Furman, Regional Clinical Director; and Trisha Johnson, Senior Regional Director

No Waitlist, Flexible Hours, and Convenient Location

The Kalamazoo Learning Center offers after-school and weekend treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules. There is no waitlist. The center is conveniently located and easily accessible via I-94, US 131, and M-96 for families in the region.

For more information or to enroll a child at the new Kalamazoo Learning Center, call (844) 263-1613 or visit https://totalspectrumcare.com/locations/kalamazoo

About Total Spectrum

Total Spectrum is part of the LEARN Behavioral network, one of the nation’s leading providers of contemporary ABA therapy. Total Spectrum has been delivering evidence-based services for more than 10 years, helping children and young adults with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

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.

Priorities ABA Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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Priorities ABA, North Carolina’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based, in-home, and school-based autism services for children, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate our 25th anniversary of helping children and families grow, learn, and thrive,” said Emily Cogdell, LPA, LBA, BCBA, Regional Clinical Director.

Priorities ABA, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce its 25-year milestone. The organization is celebrating in a unique way by holding themed activities for children and families at their Cary, Fayetteville, and Jacksonville Learning Centers each month throughout the year. For example, in April, Priorities ABA celebrated Earth Day with a fun Scavenger Hunt at each of their Learning Centers.

“Families are excited about all the different themed activities, and the children particularly enjoy the themed activities where they may wear costumes or dress up for the day,” noted Cogdell.

In addition to themed activities for children and families, Priorities ABA staff is celebrating the 25th anniversary by giving back through monthly employee outreach initiatives that support various local community nonprofit organizations. Each month, staff hold a different drive to support the community – from a clothing drive, to a book drive to promote reading awareness, to a food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank in Fayetteville.

Growing & Expanding Services

Priorities ABA was founded in 2001 and primarily served the Greenville area. As one of the earliest team members, Cogdell began working with Priorities ABA in 2004, delivering one-on-one ABA therapy to children on the autism spectrum.

“In the beginning, Priorities ABA had a team of four Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), and services provided to children were limited to home-based,” Cogdell explained. “This meant that the BCBAs were only able to provide ABA therapy to children a couple of times per week.”

“Fast forward 25 years, Priorities ABA has branched out and is able to help many more families as we’re able to provide services where the children are – whether that’s at one of our Learning Centers, or at home or school,” explained Cogdell, whose team currently works in home, community, and school settings, tailoring ABA programs around the strengths and weaknesses of children with autism.

Priorities ABA is committed to focusing on each child’s unique needs, providing personalized, child-centered care to help them succeed, while also supporting the family.

Priorities ABA provides in-home, center-based, and school-based ABA services at three state-of-the-art Learning Centers located in Cary, Fayetteville, and Jacksonville, NC. In addition to a team of 13 BCBAs, Priorities ABA now employs more than 100 Behavior Technicians (BTs) who provide ABA services to children and families each day.

Cogdell continued, “Many of our BCBAs have been with us for 7 to 15 years. This longevity speaks to the culture we have created. What we do and how we do it is important – we believe in both.”

About Priorities ABA

Priorities ABA, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. Now celebrating 25 years, Priorities ABA has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children and adolescents with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

Priorities ABA has locations in Cary, Fayetteville, and Jacksonville, NC. For more information or to enroll a child, call (252) 341-4192 or visit prioritiesaba.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. 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

New Autism Learning Center Now Open in Beloit, WI

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WEAP Provides Flexible Treatment Hours for Area Families, No Waitlist

Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the grand opening of its new Beloit Learning Center at 905 Henry Ave., Beloit, WI 53511.

WEAP, celebrating its 30th year, has become a world-renowned leader in early diagnosis and treatment for children with autism. Their evidence-based approach to care has helped thousands of children with autism throughout Wisconsin.

WEAP is Wisconsin’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 18 months to 6 years old. The new Beloit Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, social skills programs, parent education (in-home), Early Intervention, and weekend services. The social skills programs offered include Better Together Youth Club and Saturday Squad.

“We launched the new Beloit Learning Center to meet significant demand for ABA autism services in Rock County,” said Christine Laurent, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director. “We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with new families throughout greater Beloit to help find success for every child in our care.”

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

Key Features of the Beloit Learning Center:

  • Experienced leadership brings resources and support to children and families with autism in the community.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Center-based services in the city of Beloit.
  • School readiness focus, indoorgross motor area, a large indoor play area, a sensory room, and a cafeteria
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children ages 18 months to 6 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located and easily accessible via US Route 51 and public transportation for families in the region.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Beloit Learning Center, call (608) 662-9327 or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/beloit

In addition to Beloit, WEAP has center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Altoona, Brookfield, De Pere, Glendale, Green Bay, Janesville, Madison, Madison South, Menomonie, Milwaukee (Menomonee Falls),Mount Pleasant, Oak Creek, Oshkosh, Reedsburg, Sheboygan, Stevens Point, Sun Prairie, and West Bend. WEAP continues to expand and will open the doors of additional Learning Centers in Greenfield and Kenosha in 2026.

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.

Dismantling Ableism and Centering Autistic Voices

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Jenny Palmiotto, founder of Love and Autism, joins us to share the inspiring journey behind the movement that’s redefining how we think about autism. Jenny explores what it truly means to create an autistic-affirming world—one where autistic voices are centered, support needs are seen as neutral, and ableism is actively dismantled.

From challenging ableist narratives to finding connection through humor and everyday activism, this conversation reminds us that inclusion starts with listening and learning. Jenny also gives a glimpse into the upcoming Moms Retreat, a nurturing space designed to support mothers of autistic children and build a stronger sense of community.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/dismantling-ableism-and-centering-autistic-voices

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.