The North Shore ARC

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What is Building Blocks?

Building Blocks, a program of the North Shore Arc, services children under the age of six who have a diagnosis on the autism spectrum. Our staff of providers specializes in working intensively with young children with a diagnosis on the PDD/autism spectrum. The providers service children up to 30 hours a week, depending on the needs of the child and the family. We work collaboratively with Early Intervention programs or school systems to supplement children’s existing programs. Building Blocks provides intensive home, school and community-based support to children and their families.
Building Blocks is under the clinical direction of Dr. Karen Levine, PhD.

Who is eligible for Building Blocks?

Children under the age of three who have a diagnosis on the PDD/autism spectrum are eligible for Building Blocks Intensive Early Intervention. Children three to six years old who have a diagnosis on the PDD/autism spectrum or related disorders are eligible for Building Blocks Intensive Preschool.

What is the Philosophy of Building Blocks?

The philosophy of Building Blocks is that young children with PDD/autism spectrum disorders learn best with intensive 1:1 individualized intervention. There are currently two approaches supported by research as being effective: “Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)” and “Floor Time”. Staff is trained in both approaches.Building Blocks places an emphasis on the Floor Time approach to develop a positive, trusting relationship between the child and the provider. Over time, individually adapted “modified ABA” is also used to teach specific skills, which are then generalized through Floor Time activities.The specific approaches used depend on the child’s learning style.

Area served: Northeastern Massachusetts, Boston, and Worcester

Referral: Open (see "eligibility" above)

Contacts: Barbara Fennessey or Debbie Guy at (978) 762-8352