When Rickey turned 3, his parents noticed something was different about their son compared to his siblings. Initially, signs of delay in speech, difficulty with social interactions, and fixation tendencies raised concerns. He eventually was diagnosed with autism. The Montessori preschool he was enrolled in was becoming a challenge, so his parents sought specialized services. Alexa’s PLAYC offered a lifeline—a place where Rickey could receive tailored support and where his parents could learn alongside him. Rickey was the first child with autism to be enrolled at Alexa’s PLAYC in Murrieta.
“As parents, we knew early intervention was key for our child with autism, especially after his struggles in a previous preschool setting,” says Rickey’s mom, Christina. “With his diagnosis at age 3, we braced ourselves for the challenges ahead but were determined to provide him with the support he needed to thrive.”
Alexa’s PLAYC, with locations in Murrieta and San Diego, is a specialized program designed to provide comprehensive support and early intervention services for children with developmental needs, including autism spectrum disorder, alongside typically developing children. With a focus on personalized care and evidence-based practices, Alexa’s PLAYC offers a nurturing environment where children can thrive and reach their full potential. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to child development, addressing various areas such as speech and language, social skills, sensory integration, and behavior management. Through individualized assessment and tailored intervention plans, each child receives targeted support tailored to their unique strengths and challenges.
“Our experience with Alexa’s PLAYC has been truly transformative,” adds Christina. “Through specialized techniques and strategies, Rickey received the individualized attention necessary for his growth. From communication skills to emotional development, he made remarkable progress with each passing day. What’s more, the program didn’t just benefit Rickey; it enriched our entire family dynamic.”
At Alexa’s PLAYC, families play an integral role in their child’s journey, with opportunities for parent education, support groups, and collaborative goal-setting with therapists and educators. The program strives to empower families with the knowledge and tools they need to support their child’s growth and development both within the program and at home. With two typical children also enrolled at Alexa’s PLAYC, Rickey’s parents witnessed the inclusive nature of the program. Typical children learned invaluable lessons in empathy and understanding, becoming champions for their brother and others like him. The supportive environment fostered at Alexa’s PLAYC created a sense of belonging for everyone involved.
“Reflecting on our journey, we wholeheartedly recommend Alexa’s PLAYC to other families facing a similar situation,” says Christina. “While early intervention requires dedication and patience, the rewards are immeasurable. It’s a journey of growth, resilience, and unwavering support—one that has made a profound impact on our family’s life.”
With a team of dedicated professionals, including therapists, educators, and behavior analysts, Alexa’s PLAYC is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every child can flourish.
“To parents considering Alexa’s PLAYC, my advice would be to embrace the process wholeheartedly,” says Christina. “Invest your time, energy, and trust in the program, knowing that every step forward is a victory worth celebrating. With Alexa’s PLAYC by your side, your child can embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment—one that will shape their future in remarkable ways.”