In a Tulare County classroom, children are playing and learning important communication skills.
Four-year-old Fernando is part of the Bright Future program, run by the Tulare County Office of Education. His father, Lazaro Arciniego, has noticed a big improvement in his son’s ability to express himself.
“His communication skills have improved so much,” Arciniego said. “Now, he can tell us when he’s hungry, thirsty, or needs to use the restroom.”
Fernando was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the age of two.
“Many children with autism struggle to socialize,” said Mindy Gomez, a behavior consultant with Bright Future. “It’s not that they don’t want to. They just have a hard time understanding how to do it.”
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects the brain. Children with ASD often have difficulty with social interaction and communication. They may also show repetitive behaviors, such as lining up toys in a certain order and getting upset if the order changes.
The Bright Future program helps children develop social skills in a structured environment. During circle time, teachers use songs to encourage self-expression.
The program offers center-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Fernando enjoys one-on-one sessions with his tutors and also gets to interact with other children in a classroom setting.
“When he first started, he was shy and hesitant,” said his behavioral tutor, Damian Thomas. “Now, he’s a social butterfly.”
Fernando has also learned to share and wait his turn by using timers. He has become more flexible with food and clothing choices as well.
“Before, there were many foods he refused to eat,” Arciniego said. “Now, he has gone from preferring cold food to warm food.”
After a fun game of Candyland, Fernando is ready to head home. Soon, he will be prepared for kindergarten.
“My hope is for him to grow and be an amazing kid,” his father said.
