Autism center looking to help

Last year the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) opened in Auburn and they are hoping to help more families in the area.

"We're here and we are ready to help," said Operations Manager Alana Leal.

CARD is a place for both children living on the autism spectrum and their parents to get resources, learning and help.

Each CARD location is specific to the child who needs help. For those going into preschool or kindergarten, they can practice being in a classroom setting.

For teens, they can learn how to live independently.

People are referred by the doctor, or can come to the center and ask about the services or get paperwork to get referred.

With eight therapists, parents and children are able to independently curate what the needs are.

"What do they want to tackle," said Leal.

At CARD they can learn working skills or self care, or even how to not argue or follow a schedule.

"Most families just want to have their child accepted in the community," said Leal.

Some students work on talking or using communication devices.

"A lot of behavioral issues are because they are not able to express what they want to say," said Leal.

There are 8 different rooms at the center catered to different needs and used as a classroom setting.

They also have a sensory room with lights and stuff to touch for the kids who need it.

CARD also offers adult programs, not just for children.

"We will always work with you," said Leal.

The time of the program is dependent on the person. Some stay for an 8-hour day, others come after school.

Leal said she has seen parents who after six months see their child use the rest room or talk on their own.

"I love seeing the parents and the relief they get over time," said Leal. "Its also nice for parents to know they aren't alone."

The center is looking to grow and serve more people.

"We're not just a team, we are a family," said Leal.

Last year the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) opened in Auburn and they are hoping to help more families in the area.

"We're here and we are ready to help," said Operations Manager Alana Leal.

CARD is a place for both children living on the autism spectrum and their parents to get resources, learning and help.

Each CARD location is specific to the child who needs help. For those going into preschool or kindergarten, they can practice being in a classroom setting.

For teens, they can learn how to live independently.

People are referred by the doctor, or can come to the center and ask about the services or get paperwork to get referred.

With eight therapists, parents and children are able to independently curate what the needs are.

"What do they want to tackle," said Leal.

At CARD they can learn working skills or self care, or even how to not argue or follow a schedule.

"Most families just want to have their child accepted in the community," said Leal.

Some students work on talking or using communication devices.

"A lot of behavioral issues are because they are not able to express what they want to say," said Leal

There are 8 different rooms at the center catered to different needs and used as a classroom setting.

They also have a sensory room with lights and stuff to touch for the kids who need it.

CARD also offers adult programs, not just for children.

"We will always work with you," said Leal.

The time of the program is dependent on the person. Some stay for an 8-hour day, others come after school.

Leal said she has seen parents who after six months see their child use the rest room or talk on their own.

"I love seeing the parents and the relief they get over time," said Leal. "Its also nice for parents to know they aren't alone."

The center is looking to grow and serve more people.

"We're not just a team, we are a family," said Leal.