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How to Create a Care Map for Your Child with Autism

Between therapies, groups, and specialists, when you have a child on the autism spectrum, you probably feel as if your schedule is always booked solid. Beyond that, keeping up with all of this, and making the most of your resources, is a feat all on its own. A care map is a visual tool that […]

A Review of AAC Devices and Who They Can Help

Most parents will never know the difficulty of trying to communicate with a child who struggles to speak. If you have a non-speaking or primarily non-speaking child, you are all too familiar with the endless desire to simply understand what your child wants at any given moment. As a parent navigating the complexities of raising […]

How To Prepare a Child with Autism for a Birthday Party

If your child with autism has received an invitation to a birthday party, you likely have mixed feelings: excitement they were included in the festivities, and dread of all the possibilities this unpredictable event might hold. For a child with autism, attending a birthday party can be both exciting and overwhelming due to the sensory […]

4 Tips for Holiday Gatherings for Children with Autism

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. It is also a time of crowds, bright lights, loud music, and rushed activities. For children with autism, this presents a unique set of challenges due to sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, and social expectations. Preparing for and navigating through holiday gatherings requires a […]
5 Tips to Deal with After-School Meltdowns

5 Tips to Deal with After-School Meltdowns

All day, your child’s experience is completely planned out. They listen to someone else’s directions, are told where and how to sit, and receive reminders to focus, on top of the plethora of sensory needs not having a chance to be met.  That sets the stage for something many parents, and especially parents of autistic […]
When and How to Seek OOD Placement: Part 2

When and How to Seek OOD Placement: Part 2

When and How to Seek OOD Placement When a parent of a child with autism or other special needs begins their partnership with the local school district, everyone is optimistic. Maybe the first, second, or even fifth IEP meeting was productive and with good intentions, and the teachers and therapists all worked with your child’s […]

When and How to Seek OOD Placement: Part 1

For all children, and particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), receiving appropriate educational services is vital for their growth and development. But what if you have argued for years for the substantial services your child is receiving at school, and they are not making the expected progress? What if the IEP (individualized education plan) […]
Echolalia for Children with Autism

The Purpose of Echolalia for Children with Autism

A neurotypical child, by their third birthday, can be expected to put together sentences in their own unique way. By 4 and 5, they are expected to carry on conversations. What do these expectations mean for a parent of a child on the autism spectrum? Often a lot of anxious googling, discussions with a speech-language […]
What is Stimming: 5 Reasons Children with Autism Stim

What is Stimming: 5 Reasons Children with Autism Stim 

What is stimming? Everybody stims! Think pen-tapping, humming while you wait, or twirling hair. “Stimming”, or self-stimulation, is a way to regulate emotions or even entertain yourself for a moment. For those on the autism spectrum, stimming is usually more pronounced and is even part of the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ASD (autism spectrum disorder). […]
Autism Acceptance Month

4 Ways to Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month 

April is Autism Acceptance Month, which is a time to raise awareness and promote understanding and inclusion of autistic individuals. This month is an opportunity for individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and friends to celebrate and honor the unique strengths and contributions of individuals with autism.  As families that are part of the […]
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Washington State Health Insurance and Autism Spectrum Disorder

In the early days of an autism diagnosis, many parents are instantly told to speak with their insurance, find out what is covered, and obtain a list of covered providers. Like with any other disability or medical need, what insurance covers tends to vary between states and between plans. 

6 Ways to Plan an Impactful Summer for Your Child with Autism

For many children, summer is a time of excitement, spontaneity, and freedom. For those on the autism spectrum, however, it also translates to a lack of routine, which can bring anxiety and overwhelm.  Because children with autism rely so much on having a predictable schedule, planning and preparing them ahead of time is essential. Use […]
What is OT and How Does It Benefit a Child with Autism?

What is OT and How Does It Benefit a Child with Autism?

When your child is diagnosed with autism, a likely part of their care plan is occupational therapy (OT). This is because the intent of OT is to help the child adapt to their environments more easily and become independent and functioning adults. For many children with autism, filtering out sensory input is an endless challenge, […]

Tips To Help Your Child Seeking Sensory Input

Tips To Help Your Child Seeking Sensory Input It’s the kid who can’t sit still in the classroom. The one constantly distracted during the lesson. The child who gets so caught up in what they’re doing, they can’t transition to the next activity. Or the kid who melts down seemingly out of nowhere, when things […]

3 Ways Having a Pet Benefits Your Child with Autism

As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, you likely already feel stretched too thin. The last thing you want to do is add even more responsibility into your household.  However, we at Gersh Academy recognize the immense power animals have on our students. It is why we chose our campus at Cougar […]
Queens Skyline

Queens Campus Now Open

Our new K-5 campus in Queens, New York is now open! Some spots may still be available, so reach out today.

Join a Growing Team

View our new interactive job board and apply to open positions online!
An aerial photo of green lawns and trees around an outdoor theater, swimming pools and a school building!

Growing Gersh Academy at West Hills

Our West Hills, Long Island campus is expanding services to a full Gersh Academy K-23 therapeutic program for young people on the autism spectrum!

Gersh Academy NY Graduation 2021

Congratulations to the NY Graduating Class of 2021! Hear the recap of our incredible graduation ceremony here.
Gersh Students on Virtual Class Social Clubs

Making Connections in Gersh Academy’s Social Clubs

Check out the Gersh Academy Social Clubs, where students connect virtually around social and learning activities, giving them the opportunity to practice vital social skills and enjoy activities with friends and peers.
Snapshot of Art Pieces Gersh Academy Students Made

Virtual Art Gallery Grand Opening

Check out what our talented young Picassos have been working on in Puerto Rico!
Gersh Academy Students Acting Out Lion King During Remote Learning

West Hempstead’s Pride of Lions

One student’s vision to put together a school-wide production of the Lion King is coming true thanks to the dedication of staff at Gersh Academy West Hempstead.
Kevin Gersh Congratulating a Gersh Academy Graduate

Moving Beyond Awareness

We’re committed to making April not only “Autism Awareness Month” but a month of acceptance and understanding.
Autism Parenting Magazine Cover

Changing the Landscape of Special Education Across the US

Explore how Gersh Academy has been leading the charge towards a more successful teaching model for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Autism Parenting Magazine Cover

Should I Send My Child to a Special Education School?

Kevin Gersh authors an article featured in Autism Parenting Magazine that explores the many benefits of sending children to a specialized school for autism, and how it can differ from other environments.
Gersh Academy West Hempstead Building

West Hempstead Campus Remains Open

At this time, our West Hempstead campus will remain open for in-person classes and your children will continue to be transported to West Hempstead through the Office of Pupil Transportation.

In-Home Support for Distance Learning

Introducing a ground-breaking program built to combat distance learning related regression.
Horse and Caretaker Bonding

The Important Relationships Between Animals and Students on the Spectrum

It’s a well-known fact that having a pet, or spending time with an animal, can have numerous benefits on a person’s mental and physical well-being. Explore how animals benefit individuals on the spectrum specifically.
Family together at the beach

How to Support Your Child During Distance Learning and COVID-19

As this pandemic continues, as a parent, you likely feel like you’re on an island with your child. Here are some tips from our teachers on how best to support your child during this time.
A family hugging in a field

How to Support Social Emotional Needs of Your Children and Yourself

Learn how to tune in to the social and emotional needs of our children and ourselves, and come out of this with strong bonds and enhanced resilience.
Student Cheering During Distance Learning Session

Why Virtual Learning Might Benefit Your Child on the Autism Spectrum

Learn how teachers and parents have been reporting higher engagement and success in online learning than they previously thought.

How to Combat Possible Covid-19 Learning Regression

Learn how you can combat COVID-19 related learning regression while still having plenty of time to do what you still need to do.

Distance Learning at Gersh

Distance learning is a hit at Gersh Academy! Check out some of the great moments here.

Registration is Open!

Registration is open! Learn more and take the next step here.
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We Bend, But We Don’t Break

Special needs parents bend, but they do not break! Check out this message from our CEO and Founder, Kevin Gersh, about how Gersh Academy will not break either.
Gersh Autism Logo on a Blue Background

Coronavirus Preparedness Letter to Parents

A letter from our superintendent on Gersh Academy’s preparedness and diligence in preventing the spread of illnesses in our school.

One Step Closer

Stories of success from the countless students and families whose lives we’ve changed.

Sensory-Friendly Holiday Event

Ronkonkoma Gingerbread House will be opening up a special sensory-friendly daytime viewing.
Student Stands in Front of Chalkboard at Gersh Academy

Happy Birthday Kevin Gersh

For Kevin’s birthday this year, he found it important to continue a very special Gersh family birthday tradition.
Smiling Gersh Academy Student Getting Food From The Thanksgiving Feast

Gersh Academy Gives Thanks

View the official Gersh Academy Thanksgiving Video here! Featuring students and staff of West Hills Academy and Gersh Academy campuses in New York, Washington and Puerto Rico!
Gersh Academy Students Smiling and Waving on the Columbus Day parade Float

Columbus Day Parade 2019 Recap Video

View the 2019 Gersh Academy NYC Columbus Day Parade recap video here!

Join us in the Columbus Day Parade

Gersh Academy returns to the Columbus Day Parade in NYC – Monday, October 14 2019.
Gersh Academy 2019 Graduates Posing Backstage with Kevin Gersh

Gersh Academy 2019 Graduation Ceremony [VIDEO]

Check out our 2019 New York Graduation Recap Video. Congratulations Class of 2019!
Framed Image of Gersh Academy Students and Their Tecahers on Pajama Day

Autism is … [VIDEO]

Hear from our staff, students, and families about the many ways in which autism has touched our lives and made us into the people we are today.
Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure 2019 Official Event T-Shirt Front

Official Autism Day T-Shirts AVAILABLE NOW!

Get your official Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure T-Shirts and show off your spirit right in time for Autism Awareness Month!
Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure Official Logo

Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure – May 8th

CEF and Gersh Academy return to bring you the sensory-friendly event people can’t stop talking about
Runner Representing Gersh Academy in the NYC Marathon

Gersh in the NYC Marathon

Gersh Academy had the honor of being represented in the NYC Marathon by marathon runner, Christopher Arocho.
Gersh Academy and NYEC Logos Coming Together

Introducing Gersh Academy at the NY Equestrian Center!

Thanks to your support and hard work, the Gersh Academy at NY Equestrian Center Classrooms are becoming a reality!
Horse Jumping Over an Obstacle

Longine Masters at Nassau Coliseum

Longine Masters is partnering with Gersh Academy to support Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure
Gersh Academy and NYEC Logos Coming Together

Gersh to Build Revolutionary New Equine Classrooms at NYEC

Help get us approved for a one-of-a-kind classroom for students on the autism spectrum built on the campus of the New York Equestrian Center!
Box of Toys to be Shipped Down to Children in Puerto Rico after Hurricane

Gersh Academy to Help Distribute 10,000 toys to Children in Puerto Rico

Staff at Gersh Academy International in Puerto Rico are helping to distribute 10,000 toys collected by Operation Toy Story, a group put together to send aid to children in need in the wake of Hurricane Maria.
NYS Approved Provider for "Training in the Needs of Children with Autism" Logo

Now Offering Teacher Certification Training

Gersh Academy is a NYS approved provider for “Training in the needs of children with autism!”
Gersh Academy Staff Member Posing in Her "We Change Lives" Shirt

Gersh Academy, Puerto Rico to Re-Open Following Hurricane Maria

Gersh Academy in Puerto Rico will reopen Monday, October 9, 2017, for full academics and therapeutic services.
Gersh Experience Student Running Through the Finish Line

Gersh Experience Student Places 2nd in Titan Run 5k Course!

It is with great honor that we announce Gersh Experience student, Brandon Martin, placed 2nd in his division in the Titan Run 5k Obstacle Course this past weekend in Long Island!
Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure Official Logo

Autism Day at Six Flags Great Adventure – May 3rd 2018

A sensory friendly event for individuals on the autism spectrum, their teachers, families, and friends.
Kevin Gersh Being Interviewed on the Radio

Interview with Kevin Gersh – LI News Radio

Listen to Kevin Gersh, Gersh Academy’s Founder/Chief Autism Officer, on Long Island News Radio!
Gersh Academy Graduate Students Reciting the Pledge of Allegience During the Ceremony

Gersh Academy Graduation 2017

Graduation day is always a great reminder to all of us of what is important, helping children, changing lives.
NASET School of Excellence Award Image

Gersh Honored as NASET School of Excellence

Selection as a NASET School of Excellence is the highest honor a private special education school can achieve through the professional association.
Featured in Autism Parenting Magazine Banner

Gersh Academy Featured in Autism Parenting Magazine

Gersh Academy has been featured in Autism Parenting Magazine’s Guide to Schools and Educational Facilities!
AASET Logo

Dr. Shore Discusses the “Three A’s of Autism”

Dr. Stephen Shore, co-lead of the Autistic Health Project, speaks about what he calls the ‘Three A’s of Autism’
Gersh Autism Logo on a Blue Background

COMING SOON – Gersh Academy at Cougar Mountain

Introducing the country’s first school for individuals on the autism spectrum attached to a zoo.
Swim Team Screening Flier

Swim Team Screening at Gersh Academy

Gersh Academy is hosting a screening of the award-winning new documentary film Swim Team.
Student in Vocational Learning

Gersh Academy Approved as an OPWDD Employment Training Program partner

We are pleased to announce that we have been approved as an OPWDD Employment Training Program partner.
TJ Max Employees and Customers

Gersh Academy Named as a TJX Companies National Community Partner

This gives our students the opportunity to intern at the TJ Maxx, Marshal’s and Home Goods stores on Long Island.
Woman in a Field with a Horse

Gersh Academy Students Benefit from Equine Therapy

Equine therapy is a form of experiential therapy that involves interactions between persons with special needs and horses.

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