Since its founding on August 11, 1975, The New England Center for Children (then the Efficacy Research Institute) has been a pioneer in autism treatment. While the increase in the number of students served through home-based, day, and residential programs, as well as partner classrooms in public school systems, consulting services, and the ACE® ABA
In the latest issue of our Research newsletter, NECC Director of Research Bill Ahearn, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA, writes about new research on familial risk for autism and Director of Behavior Analytic Research Eileen Roscoe, PhD, BCBA-D, LABA, details NECC's work with increasing varied play behavior in children with autism. Additionally, we feature some of NECC
For students at The New England Center for Children, education is not limited to the classroom. From working on motor skills with the Adapted Physical Education, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy department, to completing art projects both in the Dillon Arledge Student Center and at home, learning is a constant process. A crucial part of
When Phil Leonard MS, Assistant Director of NECC’s Adapted Physical Education, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy department (APE, OT, PT), describes his department’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, there is a hint of pride in his voice. The last few months, filled with uncertainty because of remote learning, have been understandably challenging, but the department’s
While music teacher Nadia Castagna, BS MMEd, has been with The New England Center for Children for almost two years, nothing in that time could have prepared her for the challenges of remote learning. However, despite some obstacles, Castagna is yet another example of an educator using creativity to work with students effectively through this
NECC Associate Clinical Director Jason Bourret, Ph.D., BCBA-D, was named the 2020 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Verbal Behavior Award presented by the Verbal Behavior Special Interest Group of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). Bourret was awarded this at the 46th ABAI Conference, held May 21-25, 2020. This year’s conference, which brought
While the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic affect all students, for those with autism, the break from routine and normalcy can be especially disruptive. Autism educators, from NECC staff to BCBAs at private and public schools around the world, are now faced with new challenges. During this time of social distancing and school closures, they
NECC CEO and Founder, Vinnie Strully, was recently named one of the Worcester Business Journal's Power 50 Class of 2020. This honor goes to the 50 most powerful individuals in Central Massachusetts who shape and influence the local economy. NECC's growth under Strully's leadership, both in New England and around the world, was significant to
As a Lead Teacher in NECC’s Public School Services (PSS) department, Amanda Ziino MSEd, has been presented with a unique challenge because of the Coronavirus pandemic. While her role with PSS typically involves working in one of NECC’s partner classrooms, the physical separation caused by social-distancing regulations has made the relationship-management aspect of her job
With the virtual NECC 5K Walk/Run for Autism presented by Avidia Bank only a week away, we wanted to give the NECC community some creative ways they can participate. In addition to walking or running the distance, you can get the same amount of activity by cycling for 12 miles, using a rower or elliptical
