Autism REC

Services Offered

Skills & Teaching Methods

Special Needs Offerings

Autism has a spectrum of behavioral and developmental deviations that affect the individual’s ability to interact with the outer world, to communicate and socialize. As of October 2023, the US Department of Human Services reports Autism Spectrum Disorder affects 1 in 36 children in the United States. When supporting children with autism spectrum disorder, the key is teaching children to express their feelings, understand the feelings of others, and interact with surroundings instead of retreating into their own inner world. The US Department of Human Services also reports “children with ASD can learn and succeed in the classroom and beyond. Like every child, with the help of their families, providers, doctors, specialists, and communities, kids with ASD can thrive.” Autism R.E.C provides social skills programs for children diagnosed with Autism in Philadelphia, Pa. Our program serves children from low-income backgrounds and furthest from resources. Supporting youth with autism through before/aftercare and social skills programs is crucial to ensuring that they receive the attention they need to thrive and have an equal opportunity at a well-balanced life. Another systemic barrier our youth are facing is the high costs for therapy and extracurricular activities, which is often an obstacle for inner city or marginalized families. Specifically in Philadelphia, one of the poorest largest cities, 23% of residents live in poverty. If data is a guide, the average family cannot afford to live and pay for proper care for a child with Autism. Autism R.E.C programs alleviates this barrier by offering low cost and readily accessible programs in areas of Philadelphia that’s often undeserved. Offering social skills programs to youth with autism enhances their social interactions, promotes independence, improves mental health, and prepares them for adulthood. These programs are an essential component of a comprehensive approach to supporting the social and emotional development of individuals with autism.