These program standards are developed in alignment with all relevant laws, regulations, and statutory requirements. Our approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, proven methodologies, and data-driven insights, all aimed at ensuring excellence in the services we provide.

1. Everyone Can Learn: At Eden II, we believe that all individuals have the ability to learn. Autism is a lifelong condition, but it does not limit potential, skills, or independence. Our services are designed to provide evidence-based support that helps individuals live as independently as they choose.
2. Respect and Dignity:  All programming and interactions at Eden II are conducted with respect, honoring the dignity and autonomy of each individual. We emphasize positive interactions and support.
3. Communication Skills: We prioritize teaching meaningful and functional communication systems. Using evidence-based strategies, individuals are given opportunities to practice communication in real-life situations, utilizing a variety of methods tailored to personal preferences and needs.
4. Building Skills for Independence: Skill acquisition is focused on creating greater opportunities for individuals now and in the future. Field leading approaches are used to teach skills that empower individuals to make choices about their lives, reinforcing the belief that everyone deserves autonomy.
5. Learning to Make Choices: Choice-making is actively taught and honored when appropriate. When choices cannot be honored, explanations are provided, along with instruction on the natural consequences of decisions. This approach is grounded in field leading practices that support decision-making skills.
6. Following Directions and Problem-Solving: Individuals are taught to follow instructions and develop skills in negotiation, refusal, and problem-solving. By applying validated and field leading techniques, individuals learn to understand the natural consequences of not following directions in various aspects of life.
7. Informed Decision-Making: We strive to equip individuals with the skills to make informed choices regarding their health and safety, including risk assessments. Our practices align with evidence-based guidelines that support informed decision-making, ensuring that any restrictions on rights involve interdisciplinary team discussions with individual input.
8. Personalized Reinforcement: Reinforcement is personalized, based on individual preferences. We continually assess the effectiveness of reinforcers to ensure that learning experiences are positive, utilizing evidence-based methods to determine what motivates each person.
9. Natural Reinforcement: We aim to transition from structured reinforcement to more natural reinforcement aligned with real-life situations. Evidence-based practices guide this process, starting with stronger support for new skills and gradually fading as mastery is achieved.
10. Teaching Alternative Behaviors: When reducing certain behaviors, alternative skills are taught in accordance with evidence-based strategies. For example, if frustration leads to yelling, individuals are taught to use a break card as a positive alternative.
11. Learning Environments: Instruction occurs in environments designed to facilitate learning, reflecting natural settings that individuals may encounter. This approach is supported by empirical data and field-leading organizations  that enhance generalization of skills.
12. Understanding Self-Stimulatory Behaviors: We assess the calming or energizing effects of self-stimulatory behaviors and their functions. Evidence-based strategies are used to incorporate these behaviors into coping mechanisms when appropriate and to address them only when they interfere with learning or well-being.
13. Access to Communication Tools and Supports: Effective communication systems and adaptive tools are always accessible. We advocate for the right to have these supports available in all environments, grounded in evidence-based practices that promote effective communication.
14. Individualized Programs: Programs are tailored to individual needs based on comprehensive assessments, incorporating input from families and individuals where possible. Evidence-based practices guide the development of these programs, focusing on strengths, challenges, and priority areas for growth.
15. Mitigation of Risk and Self-Harm Events: Physical restraint is avoided whenever possible and is considered only in extreme situations where there is imminent risk of harm to the individual or others. It is used solely as a last resort in critical safety scenarios, such as elopement or severe self-injurious behavior. All interventions are conducted by trained personnel and are thoroughly documented in accordance with evidence-based protocols focused on minimizing harm and ensuring safety.
16. Staff Training: All staff members receive comprehensive training in the characteristics of autism and the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Training emphasizes the application of evidence-based practices to support individuals effectively and respectfully. In addition, staff are trained in abuse prevention, trauma-informed care, and professional ethics to ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. This includes recognizing signs of potential abuse or neglect, maintaining appropriate boundaries, and upholding the dignity and rights of every individual served.
17. Parent and Staff Satisfaction: Regular satisfaction surveys are conducted for both parents and staff. Feedback is gathered to assess the quality of services and support, guiding improvements in programming and fostering a collaborative environment.
18. Family Collaboration and Support: We deeply value the insights, perspectives, and active involvement of parents and families. Recognizing the significant commitment families make to participate in Eden II programs, we strive to make every moment count by providing high-quality, evidence-based care. Our approach is rooted in partnership—working together with families to establish shared goals, promote open communication, and create a safe, supportive, and collaborative learning environment where each individual can thrive.
19. Rights to Health and Well-Being: We believe every individual has the right to lifelong health, happiness, and personal autonomy. Our programs use evidence-based practices to support conversations about personal boundaries, body awareness, safety, consent, and self-advocacy—empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies and overall well-being. We focus on health and wellness that includes access to balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and routine health screenings. We work closely with healthcare providers and families to identify and address any medical, behavioral, or emotional needs. Through proactive support and ongoing communication, we strive to foster optimal physical, emotional, and mental health for each person we serve.
20. Innovation and Meaningful Experiences: We are committed to innovation, creating fulfilling and necessary work experiences through social enterprises and developing programs such as a first-of-its-kind senior center for our aging population. These initiatives are designed to enhance quality of life and promote community integration for all individuals we serve.