You’ve got enough on your plate. Here’s a skimmable guide to open enrollment in Illinois—what changed this year, what to check in your plan, and how to make sure your child’s therapies (including ABA) keep moving forward. Note: Open enrollment is here in Illinois. Whether your child is on Medicaid/All Kids or a workplace/Marketplace plan , this quick guide shows what to check, what changed, and how to keep ABA and other therapies covered.

When a child has a lot to say but speech isn’t their easiest path, AAC —Augmentative and Alternative Communication—opens doors. AAC simply means “all the ways someone communicates besides talking,” from pictures and gestures to robust speech-generating devices (SGDs). It’s for kids of all ages who benefit from more ways to be heard. At Vilij, we’re neurodivergent-affirming. Our goal isn’t to change who your child is—it’s to expand ways to be heard , build functional living skills, and support independence. Being nonspeaking does not mean “non-communicative.” We honor every form of communication and help families grow it.

Potty training at home is one thing—but what happens when your child needs to use the bathroom out in the community?

Nighttime dryness is usually a developmental milestone rather than a skill you can directly teach. And while it takes longer, there are strategies that can help.

Potty training often feels like one of the biggest—and most intimidating—milestones in a toddler’s life. Parents are left wondering: Is it too soon? How do I know if my child is ready? What if they resist? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Some children take to it quickly, while others need more time. And for kids with autism, the path to readiness may look even more unique. The encouraging news? When you begin toilet training at the right moment—when your child shows genuine signs of being ready—you’re laying the foundation for success.

You’ve received the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis for your child, you’ve checked with insurance, and you’ve come to understand just how comprehensive ABA can be. At Vilij, we want your experience with ABA to be a good one, even if you’re not with our team. Here are our top 13 considerations for families when searching for an ABA company that aligns with your family’s (and child’s needs).

Summer provides a unique opportunity for children receiving ABA services to generalize skills, build independence, and continue progressing in a less structured environment. While it’s a time of rest for many, it can also be a season of meaningful growth. With thoughtful planning and support from your child’s care team, summer can become a powerful extension of their therapeutic journey. Here’s how your care team and families can work together to make the most of the summer months!

When it comes to helping your child succeed in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, one word comes up over and over—consistency. But what does that really mean? And why is it so important? Whether your child is at home, in school, or receiving therapy at a clinic, maintaining consistency in behavioral interventions and data collection can make a world of difference in their progress.

As a parent or caregiver, you may often wonder why certain behaviors occur and how best to support your child’s development. Truly understanding your child's behavior is key to creating an environment where they feel heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. One of the foundational tools in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that helps achieve this understanding is ABC data collection. This structured approach to observing and analyzing behaviors allows parents and professionals to recognize patterns, gain insight into the child’s experiences, and develop interventions that are both effective and responsive to their needs.