Working Together to Serve Children and Families 
with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Welcome to Giant Steps Illinois, Inc. and the Autism Center for Excellence, a community of support and education for families touched by autism.   

Autism affects as many as 1 in 166 children born today, impacting their ability to interact with the world around them, their social interactions, communication and sensory interpretation.  Giant Steps provides educational and therapeutic services in a caring, respectful environment for families touched by autism spectrum disorders.

Autism Affects the Whole Family

Located in Burr Ridge, Giant Steps Illinois was founded in 1997 by a group of parents seeking alternative education for their children.  We understand that caring for a child with autism can be both challenging and rewarding.  It requires round-the-clock support and therapies, whether from a family member, caregiver or teacher and therapist.  No one takes that journey alone with Giant Steps.  We work with our families to give them a framework that helps their child with the challenges of the world around them.

Improving Quality of Life

Students in our private day school receive an intensive educational and therapeutic program based on the strengths and individual needs of the child.  A comprehensive approach to academics, life skills, guided social interactions and therapies helps children grow and thrive.  Our goal is to integrate our students back into their home school, after developing a foundation of skills necessary.

For more information on our day school, click here.

In School and In the Community

The Autism Center for Excellence, a sister organization of Giant Steps, provides training and support to families dealing with autism, for the child, their parents, siblings and caregivers.  From academic tutoring programs to music therapy sessions, respite worker training courses and social skills groups, the Autism Center for Excellence shares its expertise with the greater autism community on a daily basis.   

For more information on the Autism Center for Excellence programs, click here.