Q&A - Capable Kids

Capable Kids

Questions & Answers

Applied behavior analysis uses systematic principles of behavior to create learning opportunities that will increase desirable behaviors, such as communication skills or pro-social behavior, while decreasing undesirable ones. Ongoing assessment and data collection drive decision making. Through decades of research, the techniques of applied behavior analysis have been shown to be effective in altering the developmental outcomes for many young children with autism.

What services does Capable Kids provide?

Capable Kids provides applied behavior analysis services. Our program is designed to provide 1:1 intensive instruction to address comprehensive learning needs as well as provide students with opportunities for facilitated social interaction with peers. Each child’s individualized instruction is provided by intervention specialists, behavior analysts, and instructors with extensive training in applied behavior analysis.

Is there a Board Certified Behavior Analyst on staff?

Yes. Heather Beam, the Executive Director/Owner, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

What age groups does Capable Kids serve?

Capable Kids offers a year round intensive, full-day program for children two years of age through fifth grade. Supplemental services are available to children of any age.

Can my child attend Capable Kids as a school option?

Yes. If your child is on a current IEP, he/she may participate in an Ohio Scholarship Program through the Ohio Department of Education.

Can I utilize the Ohio Department of Education Autism Scholarship?

Yes. Capable Kids, LLC is an approved provider of the Ohio Department of Education Autism Scholarship.

What are my program options?

Capable Kids currently offers four or five day/week options in our full day clinical program. After school and supplemental services are available for social skills instruction, academic instruction, and life skills training.

Does Capable Kids offer a summer program?

Yes. We currently offer an eight-week summer program.

How can I get more information?

Please contact Heather Beam at 419-346-8269 or beamhj@aol.com.

Our son, Ryan, who is now 10 years old, was diagnosed with autism at age 2 ½. Our doctor recommended ABA therapy, specifically Capable Kids. When Ryan first started he hardly said a word, was disengaged from the world, couldn't point to anything he needed, and ate only a few foods (which took hours to get him to eat it). He was also in diapers, and had such poor facial muscle tone he drooled constantly and he had all sorts of stemming behaviors.

It has been almost 8 years now, and I can say Ryan is a different child now. Ryan is a very happy kid. He really enjoys being around others now and his eye contact has improved so much. His speech has always been a struggle, but he can request what he wants in 3-5 word sentences (verbally). He uses a communication device to help learn new vocabulary and is now about to express himself better. He is now reading and just started working on multiplication. His writing has also come so far. From being barely legible, using all kinds of grippers, to very neat. He is eating so much better now and is trying all sorts of new foods. Ryan has come so far that we are looking into transitioning him back to public school in the fall.

Most importantly, we feel we have our beautiful son back in the same world as us. He plays piano, swims, and plays baseball for the Challenger Little League. Capable Kids saved his life. It truly takes a village to raise a child with autism. The staff at Capable Kids has worked incredibly hard to get Ryan better. We will always be grateful!!! We feel the staff is our extended family, and they should be very proud of all the work they do to give our kids hope for a bright future.

-Claudine & Dean Bernardo

Claudine & Dean Bernardo