Category: Blog

Find expert-level advice about raising kids with ASD. Read stories about living with autism and working in the ABA field.

Why Is Mental Health So Important for Students? 

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

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Mental health has become one of the biggest topics in education today. Schools are reporting more students dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress than in previous years. A 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that nearly half of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless. Teachers, counselors, and families say those concerns have not gone away. 

The reasons are layered. Academic pressure, social media, and the effects of the pandemic have all added to the challenges students carry. What once might have been considered a private issue is now understood as central to how well a student learns and participates in school. 

Defining Student Mental Health 

Mental health is not just the absence of a diagnosis. It shapes how students think, feel, and act every day. In schools, that means how they manage stress before a test, how they interact with peers, and how they see themselves as learners. 

Educators describe good mental health as the foundation for engagement. Students who feel balanced are more likely to raise their hands, join group projects, and keep trying when the work gets difficult. Poor mental health, on the other hand, can lead to lower motivation, concentration problems, or withdrawal from classmates. 

How Mental Health Affects Learning 

The link between mental health and academics is clear. Students who are having a hard time emotionally often fall behind. They may miss school, find it difficult to pay attention in class, or lose interest in assignments. Over time, these challenges can affect grades, attendance, and a student’s confidence in their ability to succeed. 

Educators also point to the way mental health affects classroom climate. When students feel supported, classrooms tend to be more engaged and collaborative. When students feel overwhelmed or isolated, it can affect the entire learning environment. 

The Role of Stigma 

Even with growing awareness, stigma continues to be a barrier. Many students avoid speaking up about stress or sadness because they fear being judged. Some worry that asking for help will make them look weak. 

Researchers and mental health advocates say this silence makes problems worse. Schools that create space for honest conversation through counseling programs, wellness initiatives, or even daily check-ins help students see mental health as a normal part of overall health. 

What Schools and Families Are Doing 

In response, many schools are adding resources to address mental health. Some have expanded access to counselors and social workers. Others have built lessons on stress management, resilience, and empathy into the school day. 

Families are playing a role, too. Parents are encouraged to pay attention to shifts in mood, sleep, or social behavior, and to partner with teachers when concerns arise. The goal is to make support available in both school and home settings. 

Why It Matters for the Future 

Experts say the skills students learn now will carry into adulthood. Knowing how to manage stress, ask for help, and support others can make a difference in college, careers, and relationships. For schools, investing in student mental health today is seen as an investment in the kind of adults those students will become. 

The conversation about mental health in schools shows no signs of fading. If anything, it is expanding. Educators and families alike are recognizing that student well-being is not separate from academics. It is at the center of it. 

Supporting Student Well-Being 

At LEARN Academy, we understand that mental health and learning go hand in hand. Our special educators, counselors, therapists, and school partners work together to support the whole child, helping students build resilience, confidence, and the skills to thrive in and out of the classroom. 

We adopt a safe and individualized approach to supporting each child’s emotional well-being as they develop the functional and interpersonal skills to lead a more engaging and fulfilling life. 

Discover LEARN Academy’s services to see how we help schools and families strengthen student well-being year-round. 

Dyslexia Awareness Month: Understanding, Support, and the Power of Awareness 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP Vice President of Related Services

Every October, communities across the country mark Dyslexia Awareness Month. For families and educators, it is a reminder that reading is not effortless for everyone. Learning differences require recognition, understanding, and support. 

What Dyslexia Means 

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences. It affects how the brain processes written and spoken language, making reading, spelling, and decoding words difficult. 

In children, early signs can include trouble learning the alphabet or connecting letters to sounds. In adults, it may show up as difficulty with complex reading or written expression. These challenges are not tied to intelligence or effort. They reflect differences in how the brain is wired for language. 

For parents and teachers, this knowledge matters. Recognizing dyslexia early and offering the right support can help students build confidence and skills that carry into every part of life. 

Why Awareness Matters 

Dyslexia Awareness Month began as a grassroots effort led by parents and educators who saw how children felt left behind without proper recognition. The goal was urgent. Bring the challenges of dyslexia into public view, push schools to improve instruction, and replace myths with facts. 

That mission continues. Awareness shifts the focus from frustration to possibility. It reminds schools to adopt proven approaches that give students with dyslexia the tools they need. It encourages communities to share resources and support families. And it empowers students to know they are not alone. 

Support and Resources 

Awareness has opened the door to more support. Families and educators still benefit from practical tools. Structured literacy approaches such as Orton-Gillingham have been shown to help children with dyslexia. Specialists can tailor strategies to each learner, helping break down words into patterns that finally make sense. 

Schools can help by offering small-group instruction, creating reading-friendly classrooms, and giving extra time on assignments. Families can connect with local and national organizations that share strategies and encouragement. Online networks and support groups also make a difference by connecting parents and providing advice. 

Technology adds another layer of support. Text-to-speech software and audiobooks let students access information without the barrier of print. These tools not only support learning but also help restore confidence. 

A Broader Conversation 

Dyslexia Awareness Month is not only about reading difficulties. It is also about recognizing strengths, building inclusive classrooms, and reminding families that help exists. With greater awareness, students with dyslexia can succeed in school and in life. Communities can also reduce the stigma that still surrounds learning differences. 

For parents, the month is a call to trust instincts and advocate for evaluations if a child needs help. For teachers, it is an invitation to learn strategies that open doors for all students. For everyone, it is a reminder that learning to read is not a simple milestone for every child. 

As October unfolds, Dyslexia Awareness Month offers more than awareness. It offers action. By seeking out resources, listening to families, and supporting inclusive practices, parents and educators can change the path for children with dyslexia not only this month but throughout the year. 

Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive 

At LEARN Academy, we work alongside families and schools to provide the right support for students with dyslexia. Our special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, reading specialists, school psychologists, and occupational therapists all play a role in building stronger reading skills and more confident learners. 

Learn more about LEARN Academy’s services and how we partner with schools to support students with dyslexia year-round. 

Sensory Processing Month: Why Awareness Matters in October and Beyond 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP, Vice President of Related Services

October is Sensory Processing Month, a reminder that for millions of children and adults, the world can feel too loud, too bright, too scratchy, or sometimes too muted to fully connect with.  

The month is dedicated to raising awareness of sensory processing disorder, or SPD, and to encouraging families, educators, and communities to better understand how the brain interprets and sometimes misinterprets everyday sights, sounds, textures, and smells. 

Living in a World of Too Much or Too Little 

Sensory processing disorder describes what happens when the brain struggles to organize and respond to incoming information. For some people, the buzz of fluorescent lights is unbearable. For others, everyday textures such as a shirt tag or the seam of a sock make it nearly impossible to concentrate. Some may not notice sensations most people find intense, and they may seek out extra movement or noise to feel regulated. 

SPD often shows up in children on the autism spectrum. Research suggests that 70% to 90% of children with autism experience sensory processing challenges. SPD can also affect people of any age. Too often, sensory challenges are dismissed as quirks or simple preferences. In reality, they can shape a person’s ability to succeed at school, at work, and in daily life. 

How Awareness Month Took Shape 

The idea of dedicating a month to sensory processing began in the early 2000s. Parents and clinicians recognized that families were dealing with it in silence. The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation helped launch the initiative, and in 2015 it was formally recognized as Sensory Awareness Month. Since then, families and organizations have used October to share stories, educate schools, and push for better recognition in health and education systems. 

Adults with SPD describe what it feels like to live in a body that does not filter sights and sounds in the same way as most people. Clinicians highlight new tools and therapies. Educators ask how to make classrooms calmer and more inclusive. 

What Support Looks Like 

Awareness is only the first step. Real support often begins with simple changes, such as a quiet corner in a classroom, noise-canceling headphones at a busy event or soft lighting in a public space. Weighted blankets, fidget tools, and scheduled sensory breaks can help turn overwhelming environments into manageable ones. 

For families, small accommodations can mean big progress. A child may finally focus on reading. An adult may feel welcome at work instead of shut out by constant noise. For communities, these adjustments send a broader signal of belonging. 

The Work Ahead 

Sensory Processing Month is an opportunity to do more than post awareness graphics. It is a chance to listen to families, learn from autistic self-advocates, and create environments where sensory needs are recognized and respected. 

Diagnosis, treatment, and support systems for SPD remain uneven. Misconceptions still linger. But each October, the movement grows in schools, in therapy centers, and in households making small but meaningful shifts. 

Awareness months last 31 days. For those living with SPD, the challenges are ongoing. That is why the message of Sensory Processing Month must carry forward. Pay attention. Make space. Understand that for many people, the world feels different. That difference deserves recognition and respect. 

Supporting Students Every Day 

At LEARN Academy, we know that sensory needs show up in unique ways for every student. Our teams of speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and special educators partner with schools and families to create sensory-friendly classrooms and strategies that help students thrive. 

Explore LEARN Academy’s services to see how we support students with sensory processing challenges and how we can help your school build an environment where every learner belongs. 

5 Strategies to Help Diverse Learners Thrive This Fall 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP, Vice President of Related Services

As schools welcome students back this fall, administrators and educators face the ongoing challenge of supporting classrooms where learners’ needs are increasingly diverse. From students on the autism spectrum to those managing social-emotional and behavioral challenges, and from Title I learners requiring supplemental services to students in nonpublic placements to students with disabilities receiving special education supports, success depends on creating environments where all students can access learning. 

At LEARN Academy, we partner with districts nationwide to provide tailored special education services, academic and behavioral supports. Drawing from that experience, here are five strategies that can help districts set their diverse learners up for success this school year. 

1. Establish Predictable, Flexible Routines 

Predictability builds a sense of safety for students, particularly those with autism or other special needs that make transitions challenging. At the same time, flexibility ensures schools can adapt to individual needs. Districts can support their students by: 

  • Posting daily schedules in both visual and written formats to reduce uncertainty and ease transitions. 
  • Providing flexible structures, such as shorter work segments or choice-based activities, for students who need extra support. 
  • For Title I programs, maintain consistent schedules for supplemental instruction so students know when to expect support without missing critical classroom learning. 

2. Prioritize Social-Emotional and Behavioral Supports 

Students cannot fully access academics without emotional readiness. Embedding social-emotional learning (SEL) and positive behavior supports into the school day benefits all learners, especially those with behavioral challenges or a history of school avoidance. A few supportive options schools can implement include: 

  • Incorporating brief morning check-ins, mood meters, or digital surveys to help staff track student well-being. 
  • Using restorative practices and positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. 
  • Providing staff training on evidence-based strategies, such as reinforcement systems and social narratives, to promote consistent practices across classrooms. 

3. Create Inclusive and Sensory-Supportive Environments 

The physical environment of a school can significantly influence learning. Minor adjustments often make a big difference, such as: 

  • Establishing calm spaces in classrooms where students can self-regulate without feeling singled out. 
  • Offering sensory supports such as noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, or alternative seating. 
  • Reducing visual clutter in classrooms to help students focus. 

4. Differentiate Instruction to Support Academic Access 

Diverse learners need scaffolds that make academic content more accessible. Effective differentiation supports both students with IEPs and Title I populations. Educators can support their students by: 

  • Previewing upcoming lessons or assignments to give students time to process material. 
  • Using graphic organizers, color coding, or chunking to simplify complex tasks. 
  • Encouraging peer-supported learning opportunities to build both academic and social skills. 

5. Leverage Partnerships to Expand Capacity 

Districts don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Partnering with experienced providers can expand a school’s capacity to serve diverse learners effectively. At LEARN Academy, we: 

  • Collaborate with schools to deliver Title I supplemental instruction, behavioral supports, special education services, and specialized academic interventions. 
  • Work alongside educators to align strategies across classrooms, Title I services, special education programs, and nonpublic settings. 
  • Build sustainable, tailored programs that benefit students, staff, and families. 

This fall, schools have an opportunity to set the tone for success by combining these five strategies—from strong routines and SEL supports to inclusive practices and expert partnerships. By implementing them, districts can help every learner thrive in general education, special education, Title I programs, and nonpublic settings. 

At LEARN Academy, we’re here to partner with schools to turn these strategies into real outcomes—meeting the unique needs of the whole student.  

Why Student Self-Determination Matters in Special Education 

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

Supporting students with special needs means more than helping them reach academic goals. It also means teaching them how to make choices, solve problems, and advocate for themselves. This is where student self-determination comes in. 

In education, “self-determination” is the term experts use to describe a student’s ability to understand their strengths, set goals, make decisions, and take steps to reach them. For children and teens with special needs, learning these skills can be life-changing. 

What Self-Determination Means 

At its core, self-determination means giving students a voice in their own learning. It goes beyond simple choices such as what snack to eat or what game to play. The goal is to help students build skills. Those can include: 

  • Setting goals 
  • Making choices 
  • Solving problems 
  • Speaking up for their needs 
  • Taking responsibility for their actions 

These skills help students grow more independence and prepare them for life beyond school. 

Why Self-Determination Matters in Special Education 

Research shows that students with strong self-determination skills do better in school and later in life. They are more likely to graduate, find jobs, and live independently. 

In special education, self-determination is often part of the individualized education program (IEP) process. At the start of each school year, teachers, parents, and students meet to set learning goals. When students play an active role in this process, they learn how to speak up for what they want and need. 

How Schools Can Build in Self-Determination 

Many schools now weave self-determination into their special education programs. Teachers and staff can support this principle in everyday ways. They can help students learn to: 

  • Make choices: Give students real options during lessons and activities 
  • Set goals: Guide students to create both short-term and long-term goals 
  • Solve problems: Work through everyday situations, such as asking for help or handling frustration 
  • Speak up: Encourage students to share their thoughts during IEP meetings 
  • Reflect: Help students review what worked, what didn’t, and what to try next 

These daily practices give students confidence and show them they have control over their own learning. 

How Parents Can Help 

Parents play a big role at home. Simple strategies include: 

  • Let kids choose: Give age-appropriate options, like what to wear or which chore to do first 
  • Set goals together: Involve the kids in family goals, such as planning a weekend activity 
  • Talk openly: Encourage conversations about feelings and needs 
  • Praise effort: Focus on effort and problem-solving, not just results 

Small daily choices build the foundation for bigger decisions later in life. 

A Path to Independence 

At its heart, student self-determination is a mindset. When schools and families encourage it, students with special needs learn that their voice matters. They gain tools to succeed in school and beyond. 

At LEARN Academy, we believe every student deserves that chance. Our team uses evidence-based strategies, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), to help children and teens build self-determination skills. These tools not only support learning but also prepare students for lifelong success. 

Want to learn more about how LEARN Academy can support your classroom or school community? Contact us today to explore our programs and resources. 

What is a Title I School? Understanding Funding, Eligibility, and Equitable Services 

Academically Reviewed By: Marybeth Jones, M.Ed., Vice President of Academic Services

Across the United States, millions of students rely on Title I programs, one of the main ways the federal government supports schools serving children from low-income families. These programs are designed to close academic gaps and provide extra help in reading, math, and other core subjects. 

People often hear the term “Title I school,” but what it means and how funding extends to private and nonpublic schools is less widely understood. 

Here’s a breakdown of what it is and how it works. 

What It Means to Be a Title I School 

Title I schools are public schools that receive federal dollars because they enroll a significant percentage of students from low-income households. The funding is used to provide academic support and help students meet state standards. 

There are two main models: 

  • Schoolwide Programs — In schools where at least 40% of students qualify as low-income, Title I money can support the entire school.  
  • Targeted Assistance Programs — In schools with lower percentages, funds go only to students most at risk of falling behind academically. 

The money often pays for reading specialists, math tutors, after-school programs, and family engagement initiatives. These are resources that schools could not otherwise afford. 

How Title I Funding Works 

Title I dollars begin at the federal level and flow through state education agencies. Then they are distributed to local school districts based on student poverty data.  

Public schools that qualify receive the money directly and design programs to meet their students’ needs. 

Extending Help Beyond Public Schools 

Title I also requires “equitable services” for eligible students who attend private or nonpublic schools. This ensures that children who attend private schools aren’t life behind. But there are key distinctions: 

  • Private schools do not receive Title I funds directly.  
  • Instead, the local public school district oversees the money and arranges services for eligible students. 
  • Services must be secular, neutral, and non-ideological.  
  • In many cases, districts partner with outside providers (such as our team) to deliver these services. 

How Equitable Services Support Students 

For students in private and nonpublic schools, equitable services often take the form of: 

  • Small group or one-on-one instruction in reading and math 
  • Supplemental tutoring focused on specific learning gaps 
  • Academic intervention programs aligned with grade-level standards 
  • Counseling programs aimed at addressing academic or social-emotional challenges. 
  • Professional development for teachers to strengthen classroom instruction 

These services make a measurable difference for students who may otherwise struggle without additional support, giving students access to the same kinds of interventions available in Title I public schools. 

Why Equitable Services Matter for Schools and Families 

For children who qualify, the support can be pivotal. They may receive one-on-one reading instruction, math help to close learning gaps, or counseling that addresses academic or social-emotional needs. Teachers may also benefit from professional development that strengthens classroom instruction. 

Without these services, many private and nonpublic school students from low-income families would not have the same opportunities as their peers in public schools. 

The principle is fairness. A child’s chance to succeed should not depend only on whether they attend a public or private school. Title I’s equitable services help reduce disparities and extend the reach of federal funding to students wherever they are enrolled. 

At LEARN It Academic Services, we partner with districts to provide these interventions and help students build skills and confidence. The goal is the same as in any Title I program: to give every child a stronger foundation for academic success. Reach out to our LEARN Academy team today to discuss equitable services or other tailored solutions for your district. 

The Importance of Sticking to Consistent ABA Therapy

By Ashley Williams, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D

Schedule Transitions Make Sticking to ABA Therapy Even More Important

Anyone in charge of the family calendar knows how important it is to stick to a schedule. It helps keep life on track.

For children on the autism spectrum, a steady schedule is even more important. A daily routine can create a sense of structure and predictability. It can reinforce a sense of stability and allow them to focus better on learning and interacting with others.

When family schedules change — like the transition from summer to back-to-school — it can be anxiety-provoking. The sudden shift from a relaxed summer schedule to a structured school routine can be overwhelming. However, maintaining a consistent daily routine during this transition can help alleviate some of this stress and anxiety.

Back to School and Back to ABA Therapy Services

For children with autism, continuing with applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy when going back to school gives them a big advantage.

It helps to improve social, communication, and learning skills through reinforcement strategies. It also provides them with a set of tools to navigate the complexities of the school environment, helping them to learn how to interact with their peers, follow instructions, and interact in a classroom setting—all of which should be fun.

ABA therapy can be tailored to meet each child’s unique needs and goals, making it an effective way to support their overall development and learning. By incorporating play-based activities and strategies, children not only enjoy themselves but also experience the joy of learning through play.

5 Reasons Why Consistent ABA Services Are Essential

  1. Skill Maintenance: Consistency in ABA services helps children maintain the skills they have already learned. Without ongoing practice and reinforcement, they may experience skill regression, which can impede their progress. Consistent ABA services reinforce learned skills across different settings.
  2. Generalization of Skills: ABA services can provide opportunities to practice and generalize their skills in different environments. By working on skills outside the traditional school setting — such as in community settings or during recreational activities — your child can learn to adapt to skills across various real-life situations.
  3. Individualized Support: Consistent ABA services allow for ongoing individualized support tailored to the specific needs of your child. ABA programs are highly individualized, focusing on the unique goals and interests of each child. Continuity of services allows you and your team to monitor your child’s progress, adjust goals as necessary, and introduce new skills based on your child’s development and needs.
  4. Behavior Management: Summer break may have introduced changes in routine and increased leisure time, which can sometimes lead to challenging behaviors. As your child goes back to school, consistent ABA services provide behavioral strategies and interventions to address and manage these behaviors effectively. ABA professionals can work closely with you and your child to develop behavior support plans and provide guidance on how to address challenging behaviors as they arise.
  5. Transition Preparation: For those transitioning to a new school or educational setting in the upcoming academic year, consistent ABA services can facilitate a smoother transition. ABA professionals can focus on specific skills that will support your child’s adjustment to the new environment. That focus can include social skills, communication, and self-help skills. By addressing these areas during times of transition, your child can feel more prepared and confident when starting their new educational journey.

For children with autism, transitioning back to school requires a careful balance between preventing skill regression and having fun. At LEARN, our goal is both. A collaborative relationship between your family and your behavior analyst can help you create a steady schedule that works during this time of transition and sets your child up for ongoing success in school and life.

Ashley Williams is a senior clinical director at LEARN Behavioral.

For more resources about ABA consistency, watch our video “How ABA Therapy Helped Our Children Succeed: Insights from Two BCBA Moms.”

Why Is Professional Development Important for Teachers?  

Picture a teacher at the front of a classroom with fresh ideas and real tools that make learning easier for every student. That’s what professional development provides. 

Research from the Learning Policy Institute shows that ongoing training can improve student outcomes by up to 21%. For students who need extra support, that kind of growth matters even more. 

Professional development helps teachers build skills, grow their confidence, and improve classroom environments. It’s more than a one-time seminar. It’s a way to keep learning how to meet every child’s needs. 

Professional Development Sharpens Teaching Skills 

Education changes quickly. New tools and strategies appear every year. Teachers need regular training to stay current and effective. 

At LEARN Academy, teachers take part in training based on real research. They learn how to break tasks into smaller steps, use positive reinforcement, and adjust lessons to fit different learning styles.  

Teachers learn new ideas and how to use them right away. These skills help build stronger, more supportive classrooms. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Teachers learn new, proven strategies and how to use them 
  • Workshops and coaching provide hands-on practice 
  • Better teaching leads to better outcomes for students 

Tailoring Education to Every Student 

Classrooms are full of students who learn in different ways. Some need visuals. Others rely on assistive technology. Some need more structure or movement. 

Professional development helps teachers adjust how they teach and know how to differentiate their instruction for all learners. They learn how to support communication, plan individualized lessons, and create sensory-friendly environments. 

What Teachers Learn 

  • How to support communication and behavior 
  • How to use visuals and assistive tools and manipulatives 
  • How to tailor instruction to meet student needs 

Confidence in the Classroom 

Teaching students with complex needs can be hard. It takes skill—and confidence. Training helps teachers feel ready to handle tough situations. 

Confident teachers are more likely to try new ideas and speak up for their students. They also build stronger relationships with families. That trust and confidence create a safe and supportive space for learning. 

Teachers Learn Best Together 

Teachers don’t work alone. The best training brings them together to share ideas and learn from one another. 

Programs like professional learning communities give teachers a space to swap tips, troubleshoot problems, and learn from their experiences. This collaboration builds better classrooms and stronger support systems. 

Staying Current with Research and Tools 

Good teachers stay up to date. What worked 10 years ago may not work now. 

Professional development helps teachers respond to new needs. They learn how to support students with anxiety, sensory challenges, or learning delays. They also learn to use new technology to keep students engaged. 

Better Outcomes for Students 

When teachers improve, students benefit. That’s especially true for students who need more support. 

Well-trained teachers help students focus, stay on task, and build skills. Research shows a clear link between teacher training and student progress. 

What Makes Training Work 

Not all training is equal. The best programs are focused, ongoing, and useful in real classrooms. Teachers need time to practice and support from coaches or peers afterward. 

An Investment That Changes Lives 

Professional development isn’t just about teacher growth. It directly affects students’ success. 

When teachers have the right training, they create classrooms that lift every child. That’s not just good teaching. That’s life-changing. 

5 Tips for Navigating Autism Treatment for Your Multilingual Child

Author: Clinical Development Manager Maia Jackson, M.S., BCBA |

Language development is a critical component of the day-to-day lives of young children. It is used within a variety of contexts, including playing with peers, building relationships, functionally communicating needs, etc. As such, there is a heavy emphasis on language and communication built into most applied behavior analysis (ABA) programs. Because such a heavy emphasis is placed on language, it is important that practitioners are mindful of the specific language or languages that are incorporated in the therapeutic setting. The Association for Science in Autism Treatment recommends supporting  bilingualism for children with autism by encouraging family-centered, culturally sensitive language choices.

By promoting the use of the family’s native language, children have an increased likelihood of communication opportunities with their immediate and extended families, friends, and community. In addition to having more opportunities to communicate, the quality of the interactions will be more meaningful as caregivers are more likely to effectively express their own emotions, hold their child’s attention, and more thoroughly discuss topics of interest when using their native language (Zhou, et al., 2019). There are also benefits to multilingualism outside of the familial unit. Research has shown that children who are raised in multilingual homes tend to demonstrate higher perspective talking skills than children who do not (Zhou, et al., 2019). Despite all of the benefi ts to speaking one’s native language, families often face a number of barriers, especially when seeking out autism-related services.

While we live in a culturally diverse country, English remains the dominant language in most regions of the U.S. When children turn on the TV, chances are the shows they watch are in English. When they go to school, they will receive a primarily English education and their peers will speak primarily English. Autistic individuals who receive behavior analytic treatment in the U.S. are likely receiving those services in English. Despite all of these barriers, there are ways for parents and caregivers to advocate for their bilingual children and family.

1. Look for providers who speak your native language. 

One of the first measures to take when selecting a service provider is to request clinicians who speak your native language. Bilingual service providers can be hard to find and it may take time, but let your provider know your preference so they can attempt to hire and/or pair you with appropriate staff members.

2. Request translation services.

In cases where there are no staff members available to provide services in your native language, consider asking for translation services. Even if you are proficient in English, it may be easier or feel more comfortable for you to communicate in your native language. Per the Behavior Analyst Certification Board’s (BACB) Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts, the clinician you are working with should make every effort to effectively communicate with you and provide you with the opportunity to ask questions and participate in the development and implementation of your child’s program.

3. Consider the assessment language.

If your child speaks a language other than English, it is important to discuss the benefits of your child being assessed in that language. Providers use assessment results as a tool to guide the clinical program and decision making. Having the results of the assessment in your child’s primary or dominant languages will give a more accurate picture of your child’s strengths and areas of need. The starting point of the program will be more representative of your child’s language abilities.


4. Ensure the program is visually representative of your child and your family.

Visual tools and stimuli are often used as prompts, supports, and/or reinforcement systems within many ABA programs. These visual supports may serve to outline a schedule for the day, visuals might accompany a short narrative or story describing a social scenario your child might encounter, or you might see visual images used as reminders or prompts of what steps come next in routine with multiple steps, such as hand washing.  These visual items should be representative of your child and your family. Discuss incorporating your native language and culture into these items in order to promote their use and acceptance by your child. If your child accepts the stimuli and is motivated to use them, effectiveness of their intended purpose will likely increase. 

5. Discuss your language and other cultural values with your team.

Per the Ethical Code for Behavior Analysts, your cultural norms, traditions, and expectations should be extended through all aspects of the ABA program. Social interactions, communication, play activities, and activities of daily living are areas that are addressed in many ABA programs and are going to be affected by language, culture, and traditions. Discussing the ways your language and culture impact your day-to-day routines and expectations will help the clinical team develop and implement a program that is best suited to your child and your family.  

Serving as the navigator and advocator of your child’s services is a huge role. Advocating for language will often be just as important as advocating for hours, goals, or other supports.  Use your team to provide support and to feel empowered to be the advocate your child and your family need.

Navigating Mental Health in Today’s Workforce: LEARN’s Perspective

Author: Maggie Ruvoldt, Chief Human Resources Officer |

Why Mental Health Is a Leadership Priority

As leaders, we hold a unique responsibility: shaping environments where people can thrive—not just in productivity, but also in well-being. Mental Health Awareness Month is a timely opportunity to reaffirm our role in normalizing conversations around mental health in the workplace and embedding care into the very fabric of our organizations.

Recognizing Mental Health Struggles in the Workplace

As a Chief Human Resources Officer, I’ve witnessed firsthand how employee mental health challenges show up in the workplace—often quietly, through disengagement, increased absenteeism, or strained team dynamics. Behind performance metrics are people navigating anxiety, burnout, caregiving responsibilities, or personal loss.

How Intentional Mental Health Support Transforms Organizations

I’ve also seen the powerful effect of intentional support: when organizations create space for vulnerability, provide access to care, and train leaders to respond with empathy, they transform not only individual well-being but organizational resilience. Mental health at work isn’t a “soft” issue—it’s a core business priority that shapes culture, productivity, and retention.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Key Stats Leaders Should Know

The Workforce Institute at UKG published a recent study reporting that 70% of people say their manager’s impact on employee mental health is greater than that of a healthcare provider or therapist—and equal to their spouse or partner.

The data is both concerning and motivating. According to the American Psychological Association (2023), 77% of employees have experienced work-related stress in the past month, and 57% report negative mental health impacts because of their job. The World Health Organization estimates that depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion each year in lost productivity.

A Multidimensional Approach to Supporting Employee Mental Health

Our approach must be multidimensional:

  • Normalize mental health in the workplace conversations by training managers to respond with empathy and equipping teams with mental health literacy. This creates psychological safety and gives managers tools to refer employees to appropriate resources.
  • Design benefits that reflect modern needs: Mental health apps, embedded mental health care, and inclusive time-off policies aren’t perks—they’re workforce essentials.
  • Embed mental health in leadership expectations: When executives model transparency, prioritize balance, and advocate for wellness, they shift culture more powerfully than any policy can.

HR’s Role in Supporting Mental Health at Work

HR is not merely a facilitator in this work. We are architects of the employee experience. When mental health at work is recognized as a key component in engagement, retention, and performance, Mental Health Awareness Month becomes more than a moment of recognition—it becomes a catalyst for sustained change.

LEARN’s Proactive Approach to Employee Mental Health Programs

At LEARN, we recognize the importance of addressing these challenges head-on. We have several key resources aimed at supporting our staff’s well-being and employee mental health programs:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our EAP is the first stop for accessing a variety of support services, including confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up care. Learn more at www.liveandworkwell.com.
  • Caregiving Network: Understanding the demands of caregiving in the midst of a growing shortage of childcare, we offer access to resources for finding caregivers through Care.com—for children, adults, or pets.
  • 24/7 Therapy Access: Through our benefits, employees have access to therapy services, including virtual options such as Talkspace, initiated through the EAP.
  • Well-Being Video Library: Our United at Work Health & Wellness ON DEMAND Videos cover more than 70 health-related topics, providing valuable information on everything from mental health to physical wellness. 

Creating a Culture of Mental Health and Support

As we continue shaping a workplace where people feel seen, supported, and valued, mental health at work must remain a core focus—not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but every day. At LEARN, our commitment to well-being is more than a benefit—it’s a reflection of who we are. By caring for our people, we strengthen our teams, mission, and, ultimately, the communities we serve. If you’re struggling, know that support is available—and reaching out is a sign of strength.