The Behavior Exchange Early Start (B.E.E.S) program focuses on children ages 2 to 6, equipping them with critical skills to support lifelong success.
“ABA therapy is evidence-based and backed by multiple studies and decades of research,” Director of Intake Danielle Merck said. “All of our research shows that the earlier children can start accessing intensive ABA therapy services, the better their long term outcomes.”
B.E.E.S is designed to simulate a preschool setting while incorporating individualized ABA therapy strategies. Children in the program follow a structured daily schedule that includes small group instruction, one-on-one therapy and opportunities for play-based learning.
The curriculum is tailored to each child’s unique needs, addressing areas such as language development, social interaction and emotional regulation.
One of the key benefits of B.E.E.S is its ability to prepare children with autism for traditional school settings. By focusing on essential skills like following routines, engaging with peers and improving communication, children become better prepared for future educational environments.
“We've structured services in our center to emulate what a child would experience in a classroom-type of environment,” Merck said. “There's a lot of skills that we practice in our B.E.E.S program that will prepare children to eventually go into a classroom setting, or go to the park and be with friends and have appropriate social behaviors at different community settings too.”
The program also provides ongoing assessments to track progress and adjust strategies as needed. Parents are encouraged to be active participants, with regular updates and training sessions that help reinforce learning at home.
Understanding that navigating insurance and therapy services can be overwhelming for families, The Behavior Exchange also offers support in securing coverage and advocating for necessary services.
“When families have received a diagnosis and are trying to secure services for their child, the last thing they want to worry about is if insurance is going to be covering the therapy that their child needs,” Merck said. “They're going to get a lot of support from our team.”
As awareness and demand for autism services grow, The Behavior Exchange continues to expand and refine its B.E.E.S program to reach more children and families in need. By focusing on early intervention, individualized learning and family involvement, B.E.E.S helps children build the foundational skills necessary for a successful future.
The Behavior Exchange has three locations in North Texas:
- Plano Hive: 6105 Windcom Court, Ste. 400, Plano
- Frisco Hive: 8501 Wade Blvd., Bldg. 12, Frisco
- Prosper Hive: 2250 E. Prosper Trail, Bldg. B, Prosper
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Mary Katherine Shapiro, part of Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
