No Wait for ABA Therapy Enrollment at Woburn Center

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Woburn’s First Steps Developmental Services Offers Immediate Enrollment

Woburn, United States – March 11, 2026 / First Steps Developmental Services /

First Steps Developmental Services Announces Immediate Enrollment for Children Ages Birth Through 6

WOBURN, MA – March 2026 – For families in the greater Boston region facing a new autism diagnosis, one of the most challenging aspects is the waiting period. The waitlists for high-quality ABA therapy can extend for months, often longer, while the crucial developmental window identified by researchers continues to close.

First Steps Developmental Services, a center-based ABA therapy center located at 18 Commerce Way in Woburn, is excited to announce that enrollment is currently open, with no waitlist present. Families with children aged birth through 6 can initiate the intake process without delay.

“Each week a child spends on a waitlist is a week of potential development lost,” stated Jarrod Scalzo, MSEd, BCBA, LABA, Founder and CEO of First Steps Developmental Services. “We established this center to eliminate that obstacle. Families who reach out today can start the process this week.”

A Center Designed by a Caregiver, for Caregivers

Scalzo brings over two decades of experience in autism education to First Steps Developmental Services, which he founded with a mission deeply rooted in both personal conviction and professional knowledge. As a parent himself, Scalzo obtained his Master’s degree in Severe Needs Special Education from Simmons University and has dedicated his career to working in various clinical and educational environments, mentoring professionals and creating evidence-based programs for young children with autism and developmental challenges.

“I understand the feelings of a parent trying to determine the best next step,” Scalzo remarked. “First Steps was developed by caregivers, for caregivers. Our role is to equip families with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to proceed with assurance – beginning from day one.”

What Families Can Anticipate

First Steps Developmental Services provides full-day and half-day programs, each centered around a dedicated 1:1 therapist for every child. The programming is tailored and play-based, integrating three core daily experiences: circle time focused on calendar, weather, and peer social interaction; individualized therapy sessions aimed at each child’s specific goals; and tactile, kinesthetic group activities that enhance communication, peer interaction, and a broad spectrum of educational and developmental skills.

The center features two clinical therapy spaces – the Discovery Room and the Explorers Room – designed to feel inviting and child-led rather than clinical, with vibrant, engaging environments specifically crafted for early learning.

Family participation is fundamental to the program. Parent and caregiver coaching is integrated into the model, ensuring that the skills children develop at the center are reinforced and expanded upon at home.

Insurance and Accessibility

First Steps Developmental Services is currently in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts Health Plan, Harvard Pilgrim, Aetna, Cigna/Evernorth, and Carelon, with United Healthcare in progress. Massachusetts law mandates insurance coverage for ABA therapy for children diagnosed with autism. The First Steps team collaborates directly with families to confirm benefits and assist with the enrollment process before any commitments are made.

A complimentary 30-minute parent support call is available for families who are uncertain about where to start – no obligation to services is required.

About First Steps Developmental Services

First Steps Developmental Services is a center-based ABA therapy program located in Woburn, Massachusetts, serving children from birth to age 6 with autism spectrum disorder, developmental delays, and related needs. Founded by Jarrod Scalzo, MSEd, BCBA, LABA, the center offers individualized, play-based therapy through a 1:1 model with a clinical team that includes Board Certified Behavior Analysts and early childhood specialists. First Steps proudly serves families from Woburn, Winchester, Burlington, Wilmington, Lexington, Arlington, and Andover, along with other communities in Middlesex and Essex Counties.

Learn more.