Tag: Behavior Analysis Center for Autism

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held at New Autism Learning Center in South Bend, IN

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held at New Autism Learning Center in South Bend, IN
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Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA), provider of LEARN Behavioral, has announced the grand opening of its new South Bend Learning Center at 515 North Lafayette Blvd., South Bend, IN 46601. 

A ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the South Bend Regional Chamber was held on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

During the ceremony, Jeff Rea, President and CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber, shared greetings. At-large Councilwoman Rachel Tomas Morgan and Councilman Pastor Canneth Lee shared remarks.

Members of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce and other guests were in attendance.

Ribbon-cutting attendees were able to tour the facility, enjoy breakfast foods, and meet BACA’s leadership team – Christina Wyse, MS, BCBA, Center Director, and Stacy Apraez, MA, BCBA, Senior Regional Clinical Director.

“We couldn’t be more excited to open our doors to the community to provide important services, including 1:1 therapy in a group setting where children can work on skills, such as communication, activities of daily living, and socialization, while forming friendships,” said Christina Wyse. “We value being a part of the South Bend community and look forward to collaborating with fellow organizations and professionals to help find success for every child in our care.”

BACA is South Bend’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services. Serving children ages 2-10 with personalized therapy plans and clinical support provided by Dr. Carl Sundberg, a nationally recognized expert in ABA. The South Bend Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, in-home ABA therapy, school-based ABA therapy, diagnostics, Early Intervention, Social Skills groups, and parent education. 

The center is now enrolling clients with no waitlist and full-time and part-time treatment hours.

Front Row: Angela Murray, Erin Finch-Smeltzer, Jeff Rae, Christina Wyse, Kristen Robson, Stacy Apraez, Rachel Thomas Morgan, Pastor Canneth Lee, Dale Cole.  Back row: Carrie Paradiso, Ashlee Eckerle, Lyndsey Finch-Smeltzer, Jonathan Carton. 

About BACA 

BACA is part of the LEARN Behavioral network, the nation’s leading provider of compassionate autism care. BACA provides evidence-based autism services and is dedicated to delivering personalized ABA therapy, helping children and families find success.

In addition to South Bend, BACA has a Learning Center in Elkhart, IN, serving children ages 2-16.

For more information or to enroll a child at the South Bend Learning Center, call (317) 288-5232 or visit https://thebaca.com/locations/south-bend/

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

5 Sensory-Friendly Places to Visit in South Bend, IN 

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For some kids with autism or developmental differences, busy places can sometimes feel overwhelming. 

Sensory-friendly spaces are designed to make outings easier when that happens. They may lower noise or lighting, provide extra room to move, or offer simple tools to help families feel more comfortable. 

In South Bend, families will find several places that take these needs into account. Here are five sensory-friendly spots to visit. 

1. Explore Animals at the Potawatomi Zoo 

The Potawatomi Zoo is Indiana’s oldest zoo and home to more than 400 animals. The zoo offers Sensory Friendly Days with quieter pathways, lower sound levels, and sensory bags available for checkout. Families can also enjoy the wide outdoor layout, which helps children explore at their own pace. 

Tip for Families: Check the events calendar for sensory-friendly days, or visit on weekday mornings for a calmer atmosphere. 

2. Find a Quiet Corner at St. Joe County Public Library 

The St. Joe County Public Library provides a peaceful environment with cozy reading areas, interactive children’s spaces, and special sensory kits that include tools like fidget toys and noise-canceling headphones. The library also offers inclusive story times and programs throughout the year. 

Tip for Families: Ask the staff about available sensory kits or upcoming sensory-friendly events. 

3. Walk the Trails at Rum Village Park 

Rum Village Park covers more than 160 acres of trails, wooded areas, and picnic spots. Families can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, or quiet play in open green spaces. The slower pace of the park makes it an excellent choice for children who feel more comfortable outdoors. 

Tip for Families: Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. 

4. Enjoy Inclusive Fun at the 4-H Fairgrounds 

Each summer, the St. Joseph County 4-H Fair hosts a Sensory Friendly Day with reduced lights, lower sound levels, and fewer crowds. It’s a chance for children to experience the fun of the fair in a setting designed with their needs in mind. 

Tip for Families: Check the fair’s schedule. Sensory-friendly hours are typically held in the morning. 

5. Play and Relax at Howard Park 

Howard Park is a family favorite in South Bend. The park has wide-open play areas, walking trails, and plenty of space to explore. In winter, staff adjust the ice trail and playground for sensory-sensitive families. 

Tip for Families: Bring a picnic and enjoy the large green space. Early mornings or weekdays are the most peaceful times to visit. 

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly inspiration. 

Looking for additional support for your child in South Bend, IN? At the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA), part of LEARN Behavioral, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored to your child’s unique needs, interests, and personality. Learn more about our services in the South Bend area and contact us today. 

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