Optimal Beginnings, LLC

Optimal Beginnings, LLC An Applied Behavior Analysis & Speech and Language consulting and treatment firm serving MD, DC, and NoVA. Assessment is on-going.

We provide psychometric, academic, and skill testing in multiple cognitive, communication and social functioning domains to develop comprehensive treatment programs unique to each individual client. Client advocacy, Family Support Services, Social Skills Development, Speech and Language services, IEP Goal Development Consulting, Family and Caregiver Training, and Support Groups are just a few examples of the interdisciplinary wrap-around scope of services offered for complete client care.

11/14/2025

Learning what it means to serve. 🇺🇸

With Veteran's Day this past Tuesday, we spent the week doing activities around showing gratitude and appreciation for those who have served our country.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be able to teach children about these amazing heroes.

OB parents: If your family has a veteran, we’d love to have them visit the class and share their experiences! Message us or call the office today!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

This week, we’re also honoring veterans and exploring what service and community mean through our weekly activities and ...
11/13/2025

This week, we’re also honoring veterans and exploring what service and community mean through our weekly activities and lessons.

One of those heroes is close to home — our founder, Dana’s husband, David Slikker, who stepped into service with the quiet determination and grit that define the few and the proud.

David served in the United States Marine Corps from 1989 to 1993 taking on some of its most demanding and elite roles, including machine gunner and amphibious reconnaissance unit during Operation Desert Storm. As part of a recon unit, his work began long before the rest of the forces arrived — slipping into hostile terrain under cover of night, gathering intelligence, charting safe passage for advancing units, and ensuring that every Marine who followed had the best chance to come home.

On Veterans Day, we honor David and all who have served with that same steady strength and commitment to something greater than themselves.

If your family has a veteran, we’d love to have them visit our office and share their story!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Honoring those who’ve served. Thank you, veterans. 🇺🇸We want to express our gratitude and appreciation to our veterans.h...
11/11/2025

Honoring those who’ve served. Thank you, veterans. 🇺🇸

We want to express our gratitude and appreciation to our veterans.

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Meet Ty, OB's RBT Training Coordinator AND our Internal Marketing Coordinator!Ty is always hands-on with activities, whe...
11/06/2025

Meet Ty, OB's RBT Training Coordinator AND our Internal Marketing Coordinator!

Ty is always hands-on with activities, whether it's supporting the RBTs with training or filming a quick behind-the-scenes video for our socials.

Ty says the best part of his day, is helping families be able to reach milestones with their children (it takes a village).

He also can't go a day without talking wtih family, sports, and eating twizzlers!

Hands up if this is also one of your go-tos! 🙌

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

11/04/2025

Make sure to hit SAVE on this post!

The mornings seem fine.

Your child goes through the routines with no problems, no "tantrums".

But, as soon as you get in the car, it's another story.

The seatbelt feels weird. The tag on their shirt starts to itch. The noises in and outside of the car become too much.

Tears started rolling before you knew what was wrong. The uncontrollable crying tugs at your heart, and you're doing everything you can to not cry yourself. It's become a daily battle, even if it's only been 5 miles from leaving the house.

Dr. Dana is here to remind you that you are not alone. Children with autism and other neurodivergent behavioral challenges often struggle with emotional meltdowns, especially during transitions like car rides.

Thankfully, it doesn't always have to be like this. Listen to hear strategies that work to help make your car rides and transitions smoother and less of a struggle for both you and your child.

Want to learn more tips for managing behaviors in situations like this? Follow us and join the From Chaos to Calm: OB Parent Network Facebook group for a community of parents who get it.



https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

11/03/2025

We have one word for Piketoberfest: FUNTASTIC!

We attended North Bethesda’s premier fall festival as a vendor last month.

It was incredible to meet and see so many new faces, connect with our local community outside our offices, and to spread the word about our integrated services for our clients.

Watch the full video to see highlights from our day at Piketoberfest 👆

If you haven't had a chance to meet us yet, visit our website to learn more about who we are and what we do!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

10/31/2025

Halloween can be fun — but also a little overwhelming. That’s why we did a practice trick-or-treat at the clinic! 🧡
Predictability = calm

🟠 Reps without overwhelm.
🟢 You control the sensory.
🟠 You can pre-teach “take one”.

Parents: You can try a “mini” practice at home too! Line up a few doors, stuffed animals, or family members and let your child rehearse the steps. A little prep goes a long way toward a calmer, happier Halloween night. 🎃

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

10/31/2025

Halloween Week at our ABA and Speech Integrated Services therapy offices!

This week, we dove into the excitement of Halloween, from costume-inspired crafts to hands-on games, our clients practiced following steps, making choices, and building confidence—all while having safe, festive fun!

Which one was your favorite?

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/for-kids/

Join the Optimal Beginnings team for a sensory-friendly Halloween celebration! 🎃We’ll have safe treats, a calm and comfo...
10/28/2025

Join the Optimal Beginnings team for a sensory-friendly Halloween celebration! 🎃

We’ll have safe treats, a calm and comfortable setting, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Costumes welcome, smiles guaranteed!

We have two different dates and times you can choose to attend, which means fewer crowds, a calmer experience, and more memories made.

🍬 DAY 1: 10/29 (Virginia) - 1:30 PM & 4:30 PM
🍬 DAY 2: 10/30 (Maryland) - 1:30 PM & 4:30 PM

Contact one of our OB offices today (numbers below) to RSVP for your day and time you'd like to attend.

MD: 301-718-1716
VA: 703-429-1853

See you there!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Halloween is coming up...Are you worried about your child getting sensory-overload while trick-or-treating? Remember, ne...
10/28/2025

Halloween is coming up...

Are you worried about your child getting sensory-overload while trick-or-treating?

Remember, new environments and experiences are a GOOD thing!

Let your child navigate some of these on their own to boost their confidence and independence in the community and real world.

You’ll be right there to cheer them on and make it a memorable night.

Join our email list for more tips and strategies for parenting neuordivergent children - Go to our website to subscribe now!

https://www.optimalbeginning.com/

Address

6010 Executive Boulevard
Rockville, MD
20852

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 6:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 6:30pm

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