Play-based ABA therapy where every child's spark is seen, nurtured and celebrated.

You just found out your child has autism, or you’re still looking for answers. Either way, you don’t have to figure this out alone. Ignite delivers one-on-one, play-based therapy designed and led by clinicians. We help young children build communication, confidence, and connection, starting as early as possible, in a place that feels like a second home.

What is Autism?

Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a difference in how a person’s brain works that affects how they communicate, interact with others, and experience the world around them. It’s called a “spectrum” because it looks different in every person. Some children may need more support with talking or social situations, while others may need help with sensory sensitivities, routines, or emotional regulation. Autism isn’t something to be “fixed,” it’s a part of who someone is, and every autistic child has unique strengths, interests, and ways of seeing the world.

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy is a research-backed approach that helps children build skills like communication, social interaction, and everyday independence while also reducing behaviors that get in the way of learning or connecting with others. It works by breaking big goals into small, achievable steps and using play, encouragement, and positive reinforcement to help kids learn in a way that feels natural and fun, not forced. At its best, ABA meets a child exactly where they are and helps them grow into the fullest version of themselves.

Learning With Purpose

Our center-based program provides a consistent daily routine built around structured learning and play. Each child works toward individualized goals with clear expectations and steady progress. Families receive regular updates, so they always understand how their child is developing.

Consistent Routine

Play-Based Learning

Clear Communication

Measurable Progress

Why early intervention matters

Research shows that early, evidence-based support can make a lasting difference in a child’s development, which is why our programs are designed specifically for children ages 2 to 6, a window when learning and growth happen fast.

Our center-based program blends research-based therapy with play in a warm, engaging environment. Children attend a full-day program where every activity, from circle time to snack time, is thoughtfully designed to build communication, social, and learning skills.

Every child’s plan is individualized and overseen by a board-certified behavior analyst, with regular progress updates so you always know how your child is growing. And because we believe quality care should be accessible to every family, we accept most major insurance plans, including Medicaid.

Accepted Insurance

About Ignite Child Development

Ignite is a clinician-led ABA provider rooted in Wisconsin. Our team includes special-education teachers and board-certified behavior analysts who believe early intervention should be structured and joyful. We combine strong clinical expertise with play-based learning so that children feel excited to participate while building meaningful skills each day.

We focus on quality over volume. Every child receives a personalized treatment plan built around their unique strengths and needs, with consistent clinical oversight and ongoing communication with families. We see parents as true partners in the process and approach early intervention with care, intention, and heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages do you serve?

We primarily serve children ages 2 to 6 through our center-based early-intervention program. We also offer services for school-aged children, depending on location and availability.

Which insurance do you accept? Do you accept Medicaid?

We work with most major insurance plans in Wisconsin, including Medicaid and most commercial plans. We are proud to serve families regardless of insurance type. If you’re not sure if your plan is covered, we can help verify benefits at no cost.

Is your program full-day? Does my child still need to go to daycare or preschool?

Our center-based early intervention program follows a full-day schedule, providing consistent and structured therapeutic support during the hours many families would otherwise rely on daycare or preschool.

For many children, our program can serve as their primary daytime placement. Each day is thoughtfully designed to include skill building, play, social interaction, and routines that prepare children for future school settings. We are always happy to talk through your family’s specific needs and help you decide what schedule makes the most sense for your child.

How is this different from daycare?

Our program is a clinically supervised ABA therapy program led by board-certified behavior analysts. While children attend for a full day, each child has individualized goals, structured learning blocks, and ongoing progress monitoring.

Where are you located?

Ignite operates center-based ABA programs in Milwaukee, Madison, Eau Claire, and Appleton, Wisconsin. Home-based services are also available depending on your child’s needs and location.

What is ABA?

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, is a research-based approach that helps young children learn important skills and reduce behaviors that may be unsafe or get in the way of daily life. It focuses on understanding how children learn and using clear, supportive strategies to help them grow step by step.

At Ignite, we use ABA to build communication, social, play, and everyday skills in ways that feel natural and engaging. Therapy is structured, but it is also warm and child-centered. Every plan is individualized, rooted in evidence, and designed to help each child make meaningful progress in the real world.

How is center-based ABA different from home-based services?

Home-based ABA focuses on building skills within your child’s natural routines, such as getting dressed, mealtimes, and interacting with siblings. It allows learning to take place in the environment where those daily activities happen.
Center-based ABA provides a structured learning setting with increased opportunities for peer interaction, small-group instruction, and consistent skill-building throughout the day. At Ignite, both options are available, and programs can be blended based on your child’s developmental needs and clinical goals. You can find the best fit for your family here.

Does my child need to have a diagnosis of autism to enroll in your program?

For families using commercial insurance, a formal autism diagnosis is required for ABA therapy coverage. If your child has not yet been diagnosed, we are happy to provide a referral for testing and guide you through the next steps.

For children covered by Medicaid, an autism diagnosis is not required. In most cases, an order from your child’s pediatrician or primary care provider is sufficient to begin services.

How can I get started?

Getting started with Ignite is simple. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

We will verify your insurance benefits and help coordinate any required evaluations. Once authorization is in place, your child will meet with a board-certified behavior analyst for an evaluation.

From there, we create a personalized treatment plan and match your child with a therapist. After insurance approval, most families begin services within two to three weeks.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Early intervention works best when it is structured, consistent, and thoughtfully designed for young children. The early years move quickly, and having the right support in place can make a meaningful difference. Our team is here to guide you through each step with clarity and professionalism.