Connections Summer Newsletter June 2026
|
|
|
New Behavioral Network ABA Success Story
When Brian first started ABA services with New Behavioral Network in 2024 at age 10, with BCBA Elizabeth and BI Nikki, everyday tasks often felt overwhelming. Changes in routine, difficult emotions, and communication challenges sometimes led to frustration, refusal behaviors, and trouble participating in activities with his family. His grandparents and caregivers wanted to help but weren’t always sure how to support him during those difficult moments.
Through consistent ABA services, Brian began learning important skills one step at a time. He practiced following directions, communicating his needs, waiting for preferred items, taking turns, and participating in daily living activities. With encouragement from his therapy team and family, Brian started experiencing more success during play, mealtimes, and community activities. As his confidence grew, so did his ability to handle challenges with less frustration.
Today, Brian continues to make meaningful progress. While he still has goals to work toward, he is showing increased independence, improved communication, and greater participation with family and peers. Most importantly, Brian’s successes have brought more positive moments into his daily life and given his family hope for the future. His journey is a reminder that with patience, support, and the right interventions, small steps can lead to remarkable growth
|
|
|
5 Tips Going Into Summer Break for Families With Children on the Autism Spectrum
|
|
|
1. Create a Visual Summer Schedule
Many children with autism thrive on routine. As school ends, the sudden change can be stressful.
- Use a calendar with pictures, colors, or symbols.
- Mark vacations, camps, family events, and special outings.
- Review the schedule regularly so your child knows what to expect.
2. Maintain Some Consistent Routines
Summer doesn't need to be as structured as the school year, but keeping certain routines consistent can help.
- Maintain regular wake-up and bedtime schedules.
- Keep meal and snack times predictable.
- Continue any successful morning or evening routines.
3. Practice New Activities Before They Start
If your child will attend camp, therapy programs, swim lessons, or family vacations:
- Visit the location ahead of time.
- Look at photos or videos of the setting.
- Create a simple social story explaining what will happen.
- Practice skills such as wearing a swimsuit, carrying a backpack, or meeting new people.
4. Plan for Sensory Needs
Summer often brings sensory challenges such as heat, crowds, noise, and unfamiliar environments.
Consider packing:
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Sunglasses or hats
- Preferred snacks
- Fidget items
- Water bottles
- Sunscreen that your child tolerates well
Having a "sensory toolkit" can make outings much more successful.
5. Balance Learning, Fun, and Downtime
Children often benefit from continuing some educational and social opportunities during the summer.
Try to include:
- Outdoor play and physical activity
- Reading or learning activities
- Social opportunities with peers
- Quiet time to recharge
A balanced schedule can help prevent regression while still allowing your child to enjoy the break.
|
|
|
|
Hello Summer!
The weather is finally getting warmer, it's time for some Summer Fun!
|
|
|
|
|
Activities for Families with Special Needs Adults and Children
|
|
Adventure Aquarium
Address: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Phone: 844-474-3474
Adventure Aquarium has a special viewing area of the shark exhibit for patrons with autism.
|
|
|
Patrons also can borrow sound-reducing headphones at no charge, and weighted blankets for a $10 refundable deposit. The aquarium is least crowded in late summer, fall and early winter. To avoid crowds from field trips and other groups, it’s best to visit before 11 a.m. on weekdays or after 2 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
|
|
Address: Multiple Locations
Lights up, sound down, audience is free to move around!
AMC’s Sensory-Friendly Film Program screens movies for all ages on the second and fourth Saturday and for mature audiences on Tuesday nights. Participating locations include Clifton, Elizabeth, Freehold, Hamilton, Mountainside, New Brunswick, Wayne and West Orange, as well as five theaters in New York City and five in Philadelphia.
|
|
Address: 100 Clinton St, Camden, NJ 08103
Tour America’s most decorated battleship with hands-on exhibits on the Camden Waterfront. Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial is located on the Camden Waterfront, and is open daily from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with final boarding at 4:00 PM. Offering an unforgettable, hands-on experience for all ages. Battleship New Jersey participates in a job training program, and hires people with autism.
|
|
Address: 1923 Baileys Corner Road, Wall Township, NJ
Through its rescued animals and working farm environment, Allaire Community Farm aims to “nurture through nature” special needs adults and children, teens facing mental health issues, veterans with PTSD and families battling cancer. Its programs, events and outreach utilize animal therapy, equine therapy, organic gardening and vocational training. The gardens and greenhouses help support families facing health or financial hardships, and all funds generated through the nonprofit farm are used to support the organization’s ongoing mission.
|
|
|
|
What content would You like to see more of? We look forward to your comments and ideas! We would love to hear your stories of success. Please send your reply to [email protected]
|
|
|
New Behavioral Network, Inc 2 Pin Oak Lane, Suite 250
Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003
|
|
|
|