Our Programs
Helping children learn, grow, and participate with confidence.
Every child learns in their own way. At Autism FIRST, our programs are designed to meet children where they are and help them grow with confidence. We use evidence-based practices, family partnership, and a hybrid model that blends clinic-based and home-based support to create meaningful progress across daily routines.
Our hybrid model meets children where they are and gives families consistent support across daily routines, school tasks, and social settings. Each program is grounded in evidence-based ABA, family partnership, and a commitment to creating safe, positive, and meaningful learning experiences.
A Closer Look at How We Help Children Thrive
We build strong communication skills
Children learn how to express their needs, understand others, and participate in conversations in ways that feel natural and achievable.
We strengthen social and emotional development
Through guided play, small group experiences, and practice with peers, children learn how to connect, problem solve, and build friendships.
We support daily living and independence
From morning routines to classroom expectations, our programs help children build practical skills that make everyday life smoother for families.
We create consistent learning across settings
Our hybrid approach blends clinic-based learning with home-based support so children can practice skills in the places where they live, play, and grow.
We collaborate with families every step of the way
Parents and caregivers receive coaching, updates, and tools to support their child outside of sessions. We believe children make the most progress when families and clinicians work together.
We use evidence-based, child-centered methods
All programs are grounded in ABA practices that focus on positive reinforcement, skill development, and a warm, supportive environment tailored to each child.
FIRST Steps Day Program
A full day, early learning experience for ages 2 to 6.
Our FIRST Steps Day Program gives young children a strong foundation during the years when development happens fastest. Children participate in structured learning, play-based activities, sensory experiences, and skill-building throughout the day.
Families receive consistent coaching and support so skills learned in the program carry over at home and in the community.
What the program supports
- Communication and language
- Social engagement through small group activities
- Sensory regulation
- Early academic readiness
- Daily living skills
- Play, movement, and motor skills
- Positive behavior strategies
- Family collaboration and coaching
Children work one-on-one with trained Behavior Technicians with direct BCBA oversight, and also participate in small group opportunities designed for connection and practice.
FIRST Steps After School
Support for academic, functional, and daily skills for grades K through 6.
FIRST Steps After School provides structured support for children who benefit from a calm and guided space to learn, complete tasks, and build school-related skills.
This program helps children develop confidence with homework, remain regulated during academic tasks, and learn daily independence skills.
Program focus areas
- Task completion and organization
- Functional independence
- Attention and engagement
- Homework support
- Transitions between activities
- Communication during academic routines
- Emotional and sensory regulation
This is a small, high-support program with a one-to-one ratio, designed to give children personalized help in a predictable environment.
FIRST Steps Social Skills
Building communication, confidence, and connection.
Our FIRST Steps Social Skills program helps children practice communication and social interaction in a supportive group setting. Guided by a BCBA and trained staff, children learn how to participate, share, problem solve, and connect with peers in natural ways.
Skills practiced
- Conversations and turn taking
- Friendship and teamwork
- Understanding social cues
- Emotional awareness
- Problem solving and coping strategies
- Group participation and cooperation
- Personal space, safety, and boundaries
Groups are matched by age and skill level so each child feels comfortable and supported.
STEPS Life Skills
Everyday skills for independence and confidence.
STEPS Life Skills focuses on the practical abilities children and young learners need to navigate their day with confidence. Using evidence-based teaching strategies, we help children build strong routines and independence across home, school, and community settings.
Skill areas may include
- Dressing, hygiene, and personal care
- Meal routines and feeding support
- Household tasks
- Safety skills
- Follow through with routines
- Community readiness skills
- Planning, organization, and flexibility
This program strengthens the skills that make daily life smoother for families and more empowering for children.
Summer STEPS
Structured social and learning experiences during summer break.
Summer STEPS provides engaging activities, games, outdoor play, and group learning experiences that help children stay active, build friendships, and practice important social and communication skills.
Summer program features
- Weekly themes and structured activities
- Social interaction opportunities
- Emotional regulation support
- Games, art, movement, and hands-on learning
- Supportive peer connections
- Groups organized by age and skill level
Summer STEPS is designed to be inclusive, fun, and confidence-building for children in grades K through 5.
Our Approach
How we support children and families.
Autism FIRST uses evidence-based ABA that is positive, practical, and centered on each child’s strengths. Our programs combine:
- Consistent one-on-one instruction
- Small group practice
- Family partnership
- Culturally sensitive and child-centered care
- Collaboration with schools, pediatricians, and specialists
- A hybrid model that blends clinic and home-based services
Our goal is simple: to help every child build meaningful skills while supporting families every step of the way.
Where We Provide Services
Autism FIRST offers clinic-based and home-based support across Virginia as part of our hybrid program.
Service Areas
Services are available in:
Chantilly • Herndon • Winchester • Manassas • Roanoke • Newport News • Lynchburg • Richmond • Virginia Beach • Danville
Visit our Locations page to learn more about each clinic and service area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What programs does Autism FIRST offer?
Autism FIRST offers several programs for children of different ages and needs. These include the FIRST Steps Day Program, FIRST Steps After School, FIRST Steps Social Skills, STEPS Life Skills, and Summer STEPS. Each program is designed to support learning, communication, independence, and social development.
How do I know which program is right for my child?
Our intake team will speak with you, learn more about your child, and recommend the program that fits their age, needs, and learning goals. We guide families through every step so the process feels clear and comfortable.
What ages do your programs serve?
Our programs support children from early childhood through middle school. The FIRST Steps Day Program serves ages 2 to 6, the After School program supports grades K through 6, the Social Skills program offers groups by age level, STEPS Life Skills can support a wide age range, and Summer STEPS serves children in grades K through 5.
Does my child need a diagnosis to join a program?
Some programs require a diagnosis for insurance coverage, while others, like Social Skills groups and summer programs, may not. If you are unsure, contact us and we can explain what is needed for your family’s situation.
Are these programs covered by insurance?
Most of our year-round ABA-based programs, including the Day Program and After School Program, are covered by insurance. Social Skills groups and summer programs may require private pay. Our team can check your benefits and explain coverage.
What skills do children learn in your programs?
Children work on communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, daily living skills, academic readiness, and independence. Each program focuses on different skill areas, and all teaching is individualized to your child.
Do you offer home-based and clinic-based services?
Yes. Many programs include both clinic-based sessions and home-based support as part of our hybrid model. This allows children to learn skills in different settings and gives families more consistent guidance.
How long are the programs?
Program length varies. The Day Program operates full days during the week, After School runs in the late afternoon, Social Skills groups follow a weekly schedule, and Summer STEPS runs seasonally. Our team will share details based on the program you choose.
How do I enroll?
You can start by submitting the inquiry form on our Get In Touch page. Our team will reach out, answer your questions, help with insurance, and guide you through enrollment.
Start Your Journey
If you have questions about any of our programs, our team is here to help you understand your options and choose the right path for your child.
