At Rady Children’s, supporting children and families, regardless of their circumstances, diagnosis, condition, or injury, is at the heart of our mission. We provide care that is grounded in scientific evidence, informed by the latest research, and aligned with best practices to ensure each patient receives the most effective and appropriate treatment.
Rady Children’s Autism Discovery Institute seeks to empower children, teens and families by providing comprehensive and collaborative neurodiversity-affirming services, including through its preschool, Alexa’s PLAYC, which provides a nurturing and inclusive program for both those with autism spectrum disorder and their typically developing peers, and the Autism Friendly Health System Initiative, which provides training and education to medical staff on improving outcomes for patients with autism during medical visits.
We believe that childhood vaccinations are crucial for protecting children’s health and the overall health of the community by preventing serious, and sometimes life-threatening diseases. Consistent with our commitment to science-based evidence, we know that no current study has found any link between vaccines and autism.
At Rady Children’s, we believe in the incredible potential of neurodiverse children and in their unique strengths, perspectives and skills.
We strive to ensure we provide appropriate, effective care and interventions to meet the unique healthcare needs of neurodiverse individuals and their families.
Our Mission:
The Autism Discovery Institute seeks to empower children, teens, and families by providing collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming services.
Our Vision:
Through education, advocacy, and direct care, we build the foundation for fulfilling lives.
Overview
The Autism Discovery Institute is a state-of-the-art facility that provides comprehensive services for children with autism spectrum disorders, advanced research and training, and lectures for professionals working in this area.
Here, you’ll find all of Rady Children’s renowned diagnostic and treatment services under one roof, as well as programs to help families have positive experiences and interactions.
Our team includes:
- Clinical psychologists
- Board-certified behavior analysts
- Behavior Specialists
We regularly collaborate with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physicians, and developmental specialists.
Our Values
Families – We improve the self-determined quality of life for every child and family by working towards the goals they identify as most important.
Outcomes – We use evidence-based strategies, individual data collection, and program evaluation to ensure that every encounter has a meaningful impact.
Connection – We build and strengthen the connection needed to propel families, our community, and our field forward
Continuity of Care – We support families in finding the service they need when they need it.Support Our Program
One hundred percent of your tax-deductible gift benefits Rady Children’s.