UCP’s Autism Center for Excellence
at Sacramento State (A.C.E.)
A.C.E. is the only after-school program in the Sacramento region designed specifically for kids ages 8-12 with autism, helping them learn how to interact with the outside world and integrate into community activities.
Watch our video!
Autism is on the rise
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen dramatically over the past 10 years. Today, one in 70 boys is diagnosed with autism, and one in 100 children is diagnosed with autism, a 150 percent increase in diagnosis over the past five years.
How A.C.E. works
Through this structured after-school recreational program, kids with autism participate in large and small group activities where they:
- Practice their social and communication skills
- Learn about the inter-relatedness of the people in their lives
- Build friendships and social support networks
- Develop motor skills, balance and agility
Lessons are modified for different levels of understanding, and parents are instructed on techniques they can use at home. The program is highly successful due to its interdisciplinary approach and 1:1 staff/children ratio of:
- Occupational therapists
- Speech therapists
- Adaptive physical therapists
- Applied behavioral analysts
Success at A.C.E.
"My son told me today that he LOVES it. I think he really appreciates feeling part of the group. He senses that…he fits in and is accepted as he is. I am thrilled for him to be getting the social and therapeutic benefits. It is a relief to know that I can drop him off... and not be on edge, thinking any minute they’re going to call me to pick him up due to unusual behavior." –A.C.E. Parent
Contact David Rossi at (916) 548-2562.