Summer brings a shift in routine—for kids and families alike. School schedules pause, days feel longer, and parents start looking for ABA-based summer programming options that are both a fit for their child and schedule. At Verbal Beginnings, we see summer as more than a break—it’s an opportunity.
To share more about what makes our summer programs so special, we sat down with Erin Kitzmiller, Director of Social Beginnings, to talk details. Erin leads the vision behind our summer offerings and works closely with families and clinicians to ensure each program balances skill-building with what summer should feel like—engaging, motivating, and joyful. Take it away Erin!
How long have you been running Social Beginnings? What’s your favorite part of leading this program?
I have been working as the Director of Social Beginnings since July of 2023 so I’m heading into my fourth Summer with the program! My favorite aspect of the Social Beginnings Summer Program is our ability to connect medically necessary services with a fun, engaging experience. The program successfully simulates a traditional summer camp environment for our clients, ensuring that while their siblings and friends are off at camp, our clients share that same sense of belonging.
How long is the summer 2026 program? Is it a full day?
The Summer Program is a 7-week program, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The full day is necessary to target the skills built into our curriculum and each individual’s program.
What’s a typical day like during the program? Is there a schedule?
Your child would join a classroom of about 10 children, 1 BCBA, and 2 behavior technicians. Their classroom will follow their own schedule, which will include free play, structured activities, lessons, meal time(s), outdoor play, and pre-scheduled events like water play or show-and-tell.
Can you share more about the new job skills curriculum for teens being offered this year?
We are really excited to announce the launch of our new initiative: the “Career Cafe’ – Where Snacks Meet Skills!” The Career Cafe’ is a snack and beverage cart that our Teen group will operate throughout the Summer Program. The curriculum is designed to guide them through essential job skills, including positive customer service, communication, multitasking, organization and cleanliness, and teamwork.
The teens will put these skills to the test daily as they serve our summer center, all under the direct oversight and training of a BCBA.
What’s the benefit to a strong social skills program in the summer as part of overall ABA services?
The Summer Program allows children to access medically necessary, full-day services that otherwise are difficult to receive due to the academic year and conflicting school schedules. The program also plays a critical role in allowing children to maintain a consistent rhythm of learning and routine during the summer break.
What are the locations for this summer?
We will be branching out into Anne Arundel county, Prince George’s County and Northern Virginia, while still continuing our program in Howard County.
How do people learn more about the 2026 program?
The fastest way to register is to reach out to begin@verbalbeginnings.co or call 888-344-5977. Our amazing Care Coordinators will be able to answer questions, run through the initial screening, and speak with parents about all the options for Summer 2026.
Parents can also visit: https://www.verbalbeginnings.com/social-skills-summer-programs-2026/
