Dear Visitor,

Thank you for your interest in FirstSteps for Kids, Inc. We hope this website will be both informative and reassuring.

In the following pages, we provide a brief overview of Autism and the empirically validated “best-practice” treatment model, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). If you feel your child may need intervention services, we strongly recommend getting help immediately. Research and clinical practice have repeatedly demonstrated that early intervention is associated with positive learning outcomes.

We have also provided an overview of the FirstSteps treatment program. Fortunately, there are many ABA providers in practice today, each with its own emphasis and service model. We encourage you to interview ABA providers to find the agency that best suits your individual needs. “Best Practices,” including intensive home and/or school-based treatment, frequent program direction by Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and data-driven program modifications are just some features of a quality intervention program. As you will see, FirstSteps is committed to fulfilling all best practice recommendations to ensure that your child and family receive exceptional treatment and optimal results.

We have also included links to useful resources which may further guide you in your quest to secure appropriate treatment services for your child. Recommended readings are included as well.

Finally, we have provided enrollment information, employment opportunities and email contacts for your convenience. Please feel free to submit via the website, email, or call us. At all times, your confidentiality will be protected.

We sympathize with those newly diagnosed families who are finding their way through the sometimes-confusing process of securing treatment and funding while simultaneously learning about the diagnosis of a child. We encourage you to call or email with questions. We are readily accessible and want to provide assistance and support.

Whether you are a parent or caregiver in need of services for your child or a professional dedicated to improving the lives of children diagnosed with Autism, we look forward to meeting you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Jennifer Harris

Founder & Executive Director