FOCUS Center for Autism

FOCUS Center for Autism Because the “creatively wired and socially challenged” should not have to go it alone.

"Always remember to honor those who paved the way for change"To share this message and celebrate Black History Month, ou...
02/04/2026

"Always remember to honor those who paved the way for change"

To share this message and celebrate Black History Month, our staff member Denzel has started a tradition of making necklaces featuring medallions of Black icons. He was excited to share them with the community, and many of us have been wearing them today. It is a simple, meaningful way to mark the start of Black History Month together.

Another way we help to bring connection and a sense of community at FOCUS is through our Adult Social Clubs. They meet o...
02/02/2026

Another way we help to bring connection and a sense of community at FOCUS is through our Adult Social Clubs. They meet on Fridays, and it is a really safe place for people to hang out, play some games and just socialize with each other. They all look forward to it and as you can tell by the smiles, really enjoy each others company. This program is also partially supported by a bottles and cans collection drive run by Ms. Sharon, our Adult Support Services Coordinator. So feel free to reach out if you have any bottles or cans you want to contribute!

There’s nothing our students enjoy more than visits from animals. A few weeks ago, our middle schoolers were lucky enoug...
01/30/2026

There’s nothing our students enjoy more than visits from animals. A few weeks ago, our middle schoolers were lucky enough to welcome a very special guest—Ms. Rachel’s dog, Cody! His visit brought smiles to everyone’s faces and created a calm, joyful energy throughout the room. It was a wonderful way to end the day, and a meaningful reminder of how healing time with animals can be for students who struggle with social challenges. Animals have a unique way of helping those barriers fall away!

In our lives we are constantly bombarded with things to do, feeling guilty about things we've gotten started and haven't...
01/28/2026

In our lives we are constantly bombarded with things to do, feeling guilty about things we've gotten started and haven't finished, and dealing with all of life's distractions.

If you let everything coming your way become a priority, everything feels overwhelming and impossible.

Here's your reminder to breathe, prioritize, take your time, stay focused, and remember that you can do anything, but not everything!

We continue to be incredibly grateful to Goodwin University and especially to the staff who come out each month to work ...
01/26/2026

We continue to be incredibly grateful to Goodwin University and especially to the staff who come out each month to work with our students in the Mobile Manufacturing Lab. They consistently meet our students with patience, care, and genuine enthusiasm while introducing them to concepts in science and manufacturing.

This past week, students had the opportunity to design cars using computer-aided design programs and a laser printer, and they also had a great time exploring the lab’s virtual reality tools.

We are truly thankful for this ongoing partnership and the opportunities it provides for our students.

A group from Washington House, our Therapeutic Supportive Housing Program, gathered for a movie night featuring Marty Su...
01/23/2026

A group from Washington House, our Therapeutic Supportive Housing Program, gathered for a movie night featuring Marty Supreme, a film centered on table tennis, healthy competition, and the importance of perseverance. The movie sparked meaningful conversations, with many of the themes—determination, resilience, and never giving up—resonating with the guys.

The group also enjoyed a community outing to a glow-in-the-dark mini golf and arcade. The night was filled with laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of encouragement as everyone took turns on the neon courses and arcade games.

Moments like these provide valuable opportunities to unwind, connect, and build positive relationships. Whether through a meaningful film or a fun night out, these experiences continue to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories for our residents.

One of the things we love most about our program is providing an environment where connections can be made. This has bee...
01/21/2026

One of the things we love most about our program is providing an environment where connections can be made. This has been happening recently for our middle school students, as they have been slowly getting to know each other this year. This past week they have been doing more activities together and really enjoying each other's company; as you can see by these pictures. Feeling comfortable and connected at school provides the foundation for real learning!

Dr. King's message on equity resonates with our mission and what we stand for.FOCUS and the Fresh Start School are close...
01/19/2026

Dr. King's message on equity resonates with our mission and what we stand for.

FOCUS and the Fresh Start School are closed today In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

We’re trying out a new health trend at Washington House! We make everyone’s favorite meals—just without meat. Sometimes ...
01/16/2026

We’re trying out a new health trend at Washington House! We make everyone’s favorite meals—just without meat. Sometimes we use meat substitutes, and other times we keep it simple with things like cheese pizza or nachos. There’s always a salad and a vegetable on the side.

It’s also a chance to socialize, whether that means watching a movie, playing video games, or just hanging out and talking!

Lost in the shuffle of the busy holiday season was another great visit from the Goodwin University Mobile Manufacturing ...
01/14/2026

Lost in the shuffle of the busy holiday season was another great visit from the Goodwin University Mobile Manufacturing Lab!

During this visit, they helped our students start planning for their physics project, where they will be building model cars. The main focus was for them to get used to making the tools and designing their cars, and as you can tell by their faces they really enjoyed it!

We are thinking back on the holiday season and some activities we have not yet shared about a few of our residents.A few...
01/12/2026

We are thinking back on the holiday season and some activities we have not yet shared about a few of our residents.

A few of our residents from Washington House, our Therapeutic Supportive Housing Program, got into the holiday spirit by making gingerbread houses which they were excited to do. What started as a relaxed creative outlet quickly turned into a fun and friendly competition, with each person putting their own spin on their design. There was no shortage of icing, candy, or creativity, and it was great to see the guys focused, laughing, helping one another, and proudly showing off their finished houses.

Moments like these really highlight the importance of getting out into the community and creating opportunities to slow down, connect, and enjoy something different together. These activities continue to be something everyone looks forward to, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to watch the group unwind, build stronger connections, and make meaningful memories—especially during the holiday season.

FOCUS Center for Autism is proud to highlight board member and Granby Citizen of the Year Craig Ellis; a painter whose w...
01/09/2026

FOCUS Center for Autism is proud to highlight board member and Granby Citizen of the Year Craig Ellis; a painter whose work is currently on exhibit at the Granby Public Library. Craig’s artwork is created using a technique called acrylic art pouring, a process that blends creativity, movement, and a sense of discovery.

To create each piece, Craig layers different acrylic paint colors into a cup and pours them onto a surface. He then tilts the surface from side to side, allowing the paint to flow naturally and spill over the edges. Because the paint moves and interacts in unpredictable ways, no two pieces are ever the same. The final image is always a surprise — even to the artist.

Craig has been practicing acrylic art pouring for the past 6–7 years, and each artwork reflects his love for bold, bright colors and organic patterns. He finds the process both exciting and rewarding, especially because it allows creativity to unfold in unexpected ways.

Visitors are invited to stop by the Granby Public Library to experience Craig’s vibrant, one-of-a-kind artwork and celebrate the creative talents within the FOCUS Center for Autism community.

Address

Canton, CT

Opening Hours

Monday 8:15am - 2:45pm
Tuesday 8:15am - 2:45pm
Wednesday 8:15am - 2:45pm
3pm - 6pm
Thursday 8:15am - 1pm
Friday 8:15am - 2:45pm

Telephone

+18606938809

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