If your child has been diagnosed with autism or other special needs, you want them to lead a life of resilience, happiness, and fulfillment. While these goals are common to all parents, the pathway required to achieve them is unique to each child. That’s why our passionate and dedicated team specializes in the use of tailored treatment programs based on contemporary, family-focused applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy as well as clinical insights and best practices we have refined through our decades of service to the autism community.
Our services help your child:
Build language and communication skills
Develop social and play skills, while forming friendships
Increase flexibility and tolerance for new routines and experiences
Decrease tantrums, meltdowns, eating selectivity, and other behaviors that can interfere with learning and growth
Prepare for and succeed in school
LEARN Behavioral Opens Doors of New Autism Learning Center in San Diego, CA
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Offering Early Intervention and a School Readiness Program to San Diego County Families
AST is San Diego’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 18 months to 12 years. The new San Diego Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, Early Intervention, and a school readiness program, Launchpad Learning. Outside the center, the San Diego team offers ABA therapy in the home, community, and school settings.
“We are excited to expand our services and partner with new families in the greater San Diego area,” said Heather Link, 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 San Diego Learning Center:
Large facility with an indoor gymfor physical and social development.
ABA therapy, which includes an enriching environment, unique play-based learning spaces, an innovative Launchpad Learning school readiness program, and one-on-one support.
Daytime treatment hours for younger children and early intervention clients. After-school hours are also available to accommodate busy family schedules. There is no waitlist.
Serving children 18 months to 12 years old with personalized therapy plans.
Conveniently located near public transportation and easily accessible via I-15 for families in the region.
About AST
AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. The San Diego Learning Center is among AST’s ABA therapy locations in Azusa, Chula Vista, Long Beach, Poway, San Gabriel, San Marcos, and Temecula.
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 Learning Center Opens Doors in Fairfax, VA with Ribbon-Cutting Celebration
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SPARKS ABA welcomes families to their new location.
SPARKS ABA, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, recently held a ribbon-cutting celebration at its new Learning Center at 3022 Williams Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax, VA 22031.
Hosted by the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon-cutting celebration was held on June 5, 2026.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Jennifer Rose, Executive Director of Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, shared greetings. Fatima Malik, Senior District Aide for Congressman James Walkinshaw; Rose Lumpkin, District Director for Senator Saddam Azlan Salim; and Fairfax City Councilmember, Anthony Amos shared remarks. Members of the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce and other guests attended.
Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet SPARKS ABA leadership team, Kayla Bagnato, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director, and Aleksandra (Sasha) Terekhova, M.A., BCBA, LBA, Managing Behavior Analyst.
“We’re honored to be part of this community and grateful to offer life-changing services right here in Fairfax,” said Kayla Bagnato, Regional Clinical Director. “We deeply value the partnerships we’ve built with local healthcare providers, human services, schools, and government. Together, we’re working to create a more inclusive, empowered community for families of children with autism.”
SPARKS ABA is Virginia’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and adolescents ages 2-18 years. The Fairfax Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy and on-site diagnostic services, as well as speech and occupational therapy. Special features include an innovative Launchpad Learning Program, a school readiness program for children aged 3 to 6. There is no waitlist, and flexible treatment hours include after-school and evening hours to accommodate busy family schedules. Outside of the center, the Fairfax team offers in-home ABA therapy.
Left to right: Nathan Desnoyers, Doug Church, Aleksandra (Sasha) Terekhova, Fatima Cruces, Victoria Watkins, Kayla Bagnato, Rose Lumpkin, Anthony Amos, Courtney Sykes, Fatima Malik, Jennifer Rose
Bridging the gap between ABA and school
The Launchpad Learning Program at the Fairfax Learning Center focuses on children with autism ages 3-6 years old 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 focuses on individual instruction to address personal growth areas. The Launchpad Learning Program ensures children are truly prepared socially, behaviorally, and academically before transitioning into a traditional school environment.
About SPARKS ABA
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. In addition to the Fairfax location, SPARKS ABA has Learning Centers in Manassas and Springfield, VA, and Landover and Waldorf, MD.
The Fairfax Learning Center is now enrolling new clients with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours. For more information or to enroll a child, call (703) 239-4400 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 evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.
Autism Learning Center Opens Doors in Stevens Point, WI with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Hosted by the Portage County Business Council, the ribbon-cutting celebration was held on June 11, 2026.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sarah Agena, Community Engagement Coordinator of the Portage County Business Council, along with Senator Patrick Testin, State Representative Vincent Miresse, and Mayor Mike Wiza, shared greetings and remarks. Members of the Portage County Business Council and other guests were in attendance.
Ribbon-cutting attendees toured the facility, enjoyed light refreshments, and met the WEAP Stevens Point leadership team, Cassie Sedlacek, LCSW, Regional Clinical Director, and Erin Junemann, Center Director.
WEAP is Wisconsin’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2 to 6 years old. The Stevens Point Learning Center provides center-based ABA, parent education, Early Intervention, Social Skills Programs, and weekend hours (Saturday Squad). Their center-based services also include a school readiness program.
The Stevens Point Learning Center offers flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules. There is no waitlist. The center is conveniently located within walking distance to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and easily accessible for families in the region.
Front row, left to right (at ribbon): Emma Toney; Anne Sanford; Brittany Moore; Erin Junemann, Center Director; Karli Klismith, Ambassador of Portage County Business Council; Cassie Sedlacek, Regional Clinical Director; Rebecca Edwards; Alyssa Volm; Annette DesRosiers.
Back row, left to right: Senator Patrick Testin; Mike Witte, President of Portage County Business Council; Mayor Mike Wiza; Billie Sjomeling, Ambassador; Deb Zaske, Ambassador; Sarah Agena, Ambassador; Nyra Lily, Ambassador; Rep. Vincent Miresse; Sara Grant, Student Services Coordinator, Stevens Point Area Public School District; Kari Schwingle, Ambassador; Eric Hamus, Ambassador; Tori Neff, Executive Director, Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum; Laura Gehrman-Rottier, Ambassador; and Justin Malin, Ambassador.
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 is now enrolling new clients in Portage County and beyond. For more information or to enroll a child at the Stevens Point Learning Center, call (608) 662-9327 or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/stevens-point
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.
Ribbon Cutting Celebration Held at New SPARKS ABA Learning Center in Springfield, VA
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SPARKS ABA, a provider of LEARN Behavioral, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield Learning Center by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5501 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151.
SPARKS ABA is Virginia’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and adolescents ages 18 months to 15 years. The Backlick Rd. Learning Center is SPARKS ABA’s second location in Springfield.
Hosted by the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon-cutting celebration was held on June 4, 2026.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Holly Hicks Dougherty, President of Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Ricardy Anderson, Fairfax County School Board, shared greetings and remarks. Members of the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.
Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy light refreshments, and meet SPARKS ABA leadership team, Kayla Bagnato, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA, Regional Clinical Director, and Misha Meyer, M.S., BCBA, LBA, Managing Behavior Analyst.
“We’re proud to expand our reach and bring compassionate, high-quality ABA therapy to even more families in the greater Springfield area,” said Kayla Bagnato. “This new space is 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.”
The new Springfield Learning Center offers center-based ABA services, SPARK Saturdays (social skills group), and parent education/training. Key features of the Springfield Learning Center include a gross motor space for physical and social development and Launchpad Learning, an innovative school readiness program for children ages 3 to 6. There is no waitlist, and flexible treatment hours are available, including after-school hours, to accommodate busy family schedules. Outside of the center, the Springfield team offers in-home ABA therapy.
Bridging the gap between ABA and school
The Launchpad Learning Program at the Springfield Learning Center focuses on children with autism ages 3-6 years old 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 focuses on individual instruction to address personal growth areas. The Launchpad Learning Program ensures children are truly prepared socially, behaviorally, and academically before transitioning into a traditional school environment.
The center is now enrolling new clients in Springfield and beyond with no waitlist and flexible treatment hours.
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 Springfield Learning Center, call (703) 291-3558 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 evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.
IEP Strategies To Start the School Year Strong
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Tips for parents, schools, and providers to work together
If your child has an individualized education program (IEP), the start of a new school year can bring both excitement and a long to-do list. Between fresh school supplies and new routines, it is also the best time to revisit your child’s plan, build strong relationships with the school team, and set up supports for success.
Here are practical ways families, schools, and providers can work together to make the most of the year ahead.
Review Your Child’s IEP
Read your child’s IEP from start to finish. Generally, the IEP from the last school year covers the start of the following year. Review the IEP from the last meeting. Refresh yourself on key details, such as:
Goals for the year
Services and supports listed
The person responsible for each service
Accommodations in the classroom
Sometimes, it can take a few weeks for schools to get services scheduled, but accommodations should be available and honored at the start of the year. For example, assistive technology should be in place. If any part of your child’s IEP is unclear, ask the school for clarification. Use plain language when talking about goals and services so everyone (teachers, aides, and your child) understands what your child’s plan includes.
Build a Strong Team Connection
An IEP works best when parents, providers, and teachers share the same vision. Early in the year:
Introduce yourself to your child’s new teacher and any specialists
Share a short summary about your child’s strengths, challenges, and what works best for them
Set a preferred method of communication, such as email, phone, or a notebook sent home
Consistent communication helps prevent misunderstandings.
Set Up for Smooth Transitions
Transitions, such as moving between activities, classrooms, or grades, can be tricky for kids on the autism spectrum. Work with the school to:
Preview new routines or schedules with your child
Visit the classroom before school starts
Use visual schedules or social stories to explain changes
When everyone knows what is coming next, children can adjust more easily and with less stress.
Track Progress Together
Do not wait for the annual IEP meeting to check progress. Schedule regular updates with the school and share notes from any outside providers, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapists.
If you notice your child struggling with a goal, request a meeting to adjust supports or strategies. Early changes can help keep your child on track.
Know Your Rights and Resources
Federal law gives children with disabilities the right to a free, appropriate public education, including special education and related services that meet their individual needs.
If you are unsure about your child’s rights, connect with a local advocacy group or parent organization. They can walk you through the process, join you for meetings, and help you get the support you need.
Make It a Team Effort
IEPs are most successful when everyone works together. That includes parents, school staff, and providers. At LEARN Behavioral, we partner with families and schools to apply evidence-based ABA strategies that help children build skills, reach their goals, and thrive in and out of the classroom.
Looking for more support with your child’s IEP this school year?
Our team at LEARN Behavioral can work alongside you and your child’s school to help create a plan that meets their unique needs. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with you to set your child up for success.
Launchpad Learning Program: Bridging the Gap Between ABA and School
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Introducing Launchpad: Guiding Young Learners Towards Group Success!
Our Launchpad program is an exciting opportunity for children with autism ages 2-6 who have made remarkable progress and skill development in a 1:1 environment and are ready to take the next leap toward thriving in a group setting.
Our program offers a balanced blend of supportive group interaction and one-to-one instruction. We understand the importance of a smooth and successful transition from early intervention and comprehensive 1:1 ABA services to group settings and have designed our program to bridge that gap.
Reach out to your local ABA provider to learn more about the Launchpad program.
