Accessible Hope Therapy Center

04/30/2026

When a child misbehaves, simply making them say "sorry" might not teach genuine remorse. Instead, let children decide if they want to apologize and encourage the other child to respond with "I forgive you" rather than "It’s okay." Saying "I forgive you" recognizes that harm was done and helps children learn accountability and healing. This simple shift in language can support better emotional growth and repair in relationships. Watch the full video to learn more about this approach from Dr. Peter Beddow, a behavior analyst with over 20 years of experience.

3 likes. "Don't Make Kids Say "Sorry" — Teach "I forgive you" Instead"

04/22/2026

Early potty training is often full of small challenges and more accidents than successes. The key is to recognize and celebrate every little win. Notice when accidents usually happen and try to bring your child to the potty just before those times. As you see more wins stacking up, momentum will build naturally, leading to steady progress. If you want practical, compassionate advice on potty training and behavior strategies, check out this video by Dr. Peter Beddow.

Watch the full video here:

Potty Training: Turn Small Wins into Momentum

04/22/2026

Transitions can be tough for some students because they feel unsure about what’s coming next. One way to help reduce tantrums is to give a clear warning a few minutes before the switch happens. Use a timer, and always describe the next activity with the same words. When kids hear the cue over and over and see the next setting is safe, their anxiety goes down, and they’re calmer. Watch this video for a straightforward approach you can try.

Use Transition Warnings to Reduce Tantrums

04/21/2026

Potty training can be a patient journey, especially when you're supporting a child with autism or other special needs. Dr. Peter Beddow encourages parents to focus on consistency without shame or punishment. Regular bathroom trips and promoting independence are key, even if progress feels slow or uneven. Over time, these steps help children gain skills that go beyond toileting. Watch the full conversation to learn practical ways to support your child’s growth.
Watch here:

Gentle Potty Training: Consistency Builds Independence

10/30/2025

08/26/2025

Check out Peter’s new book, available in paperback and digital formats!

https://a.co/d/547WTl0

Overview:

Autism is not a disease. It is not a disorder to be feared. It is simply a set of characteristics shared by a rich community of people across the world. Hope for Autism offers parents and caregivers a fresh, compassionate perspective of autism and the challenges facing children with autism, grounded in respect for every child’s infinite value.

Drawing from decades of experience serving children with autism and their families, Dr. Beddow blends real-world stories with practical, evidence-based guidance. He equips readers to better understand behavior, communication, social interaction, and daily living skills in children with autism, while offering a clear-eyed look at therapies, family dynamics, and the realities families face.

Rather than overwhelming readers with impossible checklists or promises of miracle cures, Hope for Autism focuses on what matters most: kindness, structure, sustainable strategies, and above all, unwavering hope. Whether you are new to the journey or seeking renewed vision along the way, this book will meet you where you are—and walk with you toward a future filled with growth, connection, and joy.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.

08/15/2023

We began our Space theme this week. It’s going to be a fun few weeks.

07/26/2023

I’m excited for the opportunity to speak to educators in Sumner County this afternoon as part of their professional development week. On the left in the photo is Chris Nikic, the only person with Down syndrome to finish an Ironman triathlon.

09/08/2021

Work directly with young children and school-aged children with Autism in a classroom/clinic setting. Provide 1:1 skills training under the supervision of a behavior analyst.

05/21/2020

With the Mayor’s office announcing the beginning of Phase 2 on Monday, May 25, we have decided to reopen the Center on a limited basis. We’ll be wearing masks, temperature-checking our team and clients with a no-contact thermometer, and following all of the sanitation protocols we established for COVID-19 prior to the quarantine.

We plan to offer ongoing Telehealth for our families who continue to benefit from remote therapy. For our families for whom in-person services are needed, we will be happy to resume ordinary therapy services at the Center beginning next week.

04/30/2020

Mayor Cooper has extended the Stay-At-Home order again. Rather than post continuously as the timeline changes, we wil wait andl post an update when we have relative confidence in our reopening date. In the meantime, Telehealth continues. Blessings to all our families!