New Faces - New Programs

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Balance Autism is proud of our individualized approach to programming we develop for each and every individual we have the privilege of working with. We are not a one-size-fits-all agency and are excited to announce our latest “specialty” area, recently added to our eastern corridor clinics.

Please join us in welcoming Rachel Kain, M.S., BCBA, LBA to Balance Autism Cedar Rapids/Iowa City! Rachel is an Early Start Denver Model Certified Therapist.

“I chose Balance Autism so I could be part of a team that strives to provide meaningful outcomes for the kids we serve in a compassionate care approach and motivated to continue learning alongside our kids!”

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a naturalistic style of intervention using behavior analytic principles within a play-based, relationship-focused format for children 18-48 months old. ESDM creates a child-friendly environment that fosters meaningful relationships and extensive opportunities for learning and development.

Rachel is now accepting children for ESDM in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City; fill out an application today!

PBS KIDS - YOU’RE INVITED

Iowa PBS KIDS highlights a new program premiering next week: Carl the Collector.

On November 12 at 11 a.m., the PBS KIDS team will give an inside look at its newest series. Carl the Collector breaks new ground as the first PBS KIDS show to feature central characters on the autism spectrum and aims to nurture empathy and celebrate the varied ways that kids think.

Sara DeWitt (SVP & GM, PBS KIDS) will moderate a discussion with Zach OHora (Series Creator), Dr. Stephen Shore (Series Advisor), and Lisa Whittick (Series Director).

Please note that this panel event is designed for grown-up participants rather than kids. This hour-long discussion will take place on Zoom.

Iowa PBS hosted two screenings of Carl the Collector at the Iowa PBS studios last weekend and it was incredibly well received. One of these screenings was sensory-friendly and there are plans to continue those efforts for all PBS KIDS screening events moving forward.

Iowa PBS invites YOU to join! Register here.

Halloween Fun at Balance Autism

Halloween is a favorite holiday around here; it’s especially fun to be able to mix programming/intervention to help kids and adults with autism enjoy Halloween and the traditions this holiday brings each year.

Check out some of the fun celebrations below!

This year, ACS (Adult Community Services) hosted a spooktacular Halloween party for our residents! The evening featured a haunted hallway, spooky games, tricky treats, a costume contest and prizes, and a photo booth to capture the fun memories!

Altoona Trick-Or-Treat

Corridor Clinics Halloween Fun

Clive’s Halloween Adventures

Clive’s annual trick-or-treating event was a huge success! Every year, we invite businesses from our office park to join, and this year we had record participation! A total of 10 businesses welcomed the kids for some early trick-or-treating fun. Parents love that we host this event, as it allows their children to practice trick-or-treating and feel confident and prepared for their community's Beggar’s Night.