What are the 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

FOCUS Center for Autism

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United States
Canton, CT
FOCUS Center for Autism

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

11/11/2025

FOCUS Center for Autism and Fresh Start School are closed today in observance of Veterans Day.

We honor and thank all veterans who have served and pay respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

The FOCUS veterans pictured are FOCUS cofounder Fred Evans, Fresh Start School social worker Nora Hansen, and loyal and longtime employee Melanie Gale.

11/07/2025

Last week as part of our Halloween celebrations our students had a great time paintings pumpkins. It was wonderful to see them show off their creative side and they had a lot of fun painting with each other and showing off their unique creations!

11/05/2025

We have been trying to take advantage of the nice fall weather here at FOCUS Center for Autism by getting outside for walks with our students whenever we can. It is such a simple thing but walking is one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to move our bodies. For many of our students, it is an accessible form of exercise that doesn’t feel overwhelming. The rhythm of walking, the fresh air, and being in nature all help with regulation and focus. Sometimes the best support we can offer is not complicated—it is just slowing down, stepping outside, and taking it one step at a time together.

11/03/2025

At FOCUS Center for Autism, gratitude is not just a seasonal theme — it is something we carry with us every day. We see it in the small victories, the shared laughter, the patient steps forward, and the quiet moments when someone feels seen and safe. As we move into November, a month that naturally nudges us toward thankfulness, we take a moment to name what we already practice: appreciation for growth, for connection, and for the incredible resilience and uniqueness of every individual in our community.

Gratitude doesn’t ask us to overlook challenges; it reminds us we’re not facing them alone. Here’s to a month that shines a little more light on what’s been here all along.

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween!

10/29/2025

With Halloween coming up this Friday, it is important to remember that some with autism can struggle with the holiday, even though many get excited about it. Here are some tips to make the holiday easier for everyone, especially those going trick or treating.

1) Practice wearing the costume before, so you feel comfortable in it.

2) Help them pick a costume that won't be overwhelming sensory-wise.

3) Practice ringing doorbells to get them used to what is expected.

4) Take your child to a community event and with people they are comfortable with.

5) Avoid homes with excessive decorations, as that can be overstimulating.

6) When going trick or treating partner up with a friend or neighbor that your child is comfortable with.

7) Plan indoor or daytime activities if going out at night is overwhelming for them.

8) Most importantly, celebrate Halloween in the way that makes sense for your child.

10/27/2025

While our high schoolers got to see the dogs last Friday at Donna and Fred’s, our middle schoolers got a visit from a dog too!

One of our staff members reached out to a friend at the Canton Police Department who was kind enough to bring a K9 officer over to the park. The students loved getting to meet the dog, learn a little about the K9 program, and of course, give some well-earned pets! It was a great surprise and a fun way to end the day. 🐾

10/24/2025

Upon hearing the news that our founders and directors Donna and Fred got a new puppy, our students requested we go out for a visit. Today our high schoolers were able to take a trip out to their house.

They had a wonderful time exploring inside and outside in addition to spending quality time with the dogs and of course Maybelline. Several of the students spent time birdwatching and identifying different birds. Vintage albums were also explored. The students were so appreciative of the visit and for some they stepped out of their comfort zone to be at the farm. What an awesome way to end our week!

10/22/2025

Every Friday, a few of our young adults help deliver meals through the Healing Meals Community Project — an amazing nonprofit that provides healthy meals for people in need.

This week’s Delivery Angel was Jesse! 🌟

We are very grateful for this ongoing connection with Healing Meals. This is a meaningful way for our young adults to give back and feel part of the community. They always enjoy getting out there and lending a hand.

10/20/2025

At FOCUS, we try to look beyond what’s being said and really listen to what’s underneath. When someone is upset, there’s often something deeper behind the anger — fear, frustration, or feeling unheard. Helping our students recognize and express those emotions is a big part of what growth looks like here.

10/17/2025

Last week, Washington House, our Therapeutic Supportive Housing Program, kicked off their new weekly outings, where the guys get to pick what we do together. We started strong with a few rounds of bowling — some friendly competition, plenty of laughs, and maybe a few surprising strikes along the way. It was a great way to unwind and hang out outside of the normal routine.

This week’s pick was a movie trip to see the new Tron film, which everyone said they loved — a few even called it the best one yet. The group had a blast talking about their favorite scenes afterward and comparing it to the earlier movies in the series.

These outings have already become something everyone looks forward to, and it’s been awesome seeing the guys take the lead on choosing activities. Can’t wait to see what fun the next few weeks bring!

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

Website

http://www.focuscenterforautism.org/

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