New Woburn Early Intervention Center Eliminates Waiting Lists for Children with Autism and Down Syndrome

First Steps Developmental Services announced the opening of its new early intervention center in Woburn, providing evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis services for young children with autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome. The center is now accepting new patients with no waiting lists, addressing a critical gap in access to early intervention services in the region. This development comes at a crucial time as Massachusetts insurance providers are now required to cover ABA therapy for individuals diagnosed with Down syndrome beginning January 1, 2026, further expanding access to services for families across the state.

The Woburn facility serves children ages 0–6 and is designed to support early developmental needs through individualized, developmentally appropriate ABA therapy. First Steps works closely with families and caregivers to support communication, social skills, and early learning during this foundational stage of development. The center is staffed by licensed Board Certified Behavior Analysts and highly trained support professionals and is currently enrolling families from Middlesex, Essex, and Suffolk counties. Jarrod Scalzo, Founder and CEO of First Steps Developmental Services, stated, "There is a clear demand in this region for timely, high-quality early intervention services delivered by a team that truly listens to families."

Scalzo, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with more than 20 years of experience in special education and early intervention, explained his motivation for establishing the center. "I was inspired to start First Steps to help children make meaningful progress early in life and to empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and support they need to advocate for their children." The timing of this opening aligns with significant policy changes in Massachusetts healthcare coverage, creating a more supportive environment for families seeking these essential services.

The importance of this development extends beyond immediate service availability. Research consistently shows that early intervention during the critical developmental window of ages 0–6 can significantly improve long-term outcomes for children with developmental disabilities. By eliminating waiting lists that often delay treatment for months or even years, First Steps ensures children receive support during the most formative years of brain development. The center accepts most major insurance plans for ABA services, reducing financial barriers that previously prevented many families from accessing these evidence-based interventions.

For families seeking information about services, First Steps Developmental Services maintains an online presence at https://www.firststepsds.com where additional details about their programs are available. The center's approach emphasizes family-centered care, recognizing that parents and caregivers play an essential role in their children's developmental progress. This model of care represents a significant advancement in how early intervention services are delivered in the Greater Boston area, potentially serving as a model for other regions facing similar service gaps.