Cope Center for Autism

Cope Center for Autism Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Cope Center for Autism, Nonprofit Organization, 579 Franklin Turnpike, Ridgewood, NJ.

Founded by pediatric neurologist Dr. Jennifer Cope, the Cope Center for Autism provides autism assessments and follow-up care for children; educates families about autism treatment and services and runs an enrichment program for autistic tweens and teens.

🧠✨ What is masking? ✨🧠 Masking is when some autistic individuals consciously or unconsciously hide, suppress, or change ...
05/14/2026

🧠✨ What is masking? ✨🧠
 
Masking is when some autistic individuals consciously or unconsciously hide, suppress, or change certain traits or behaviors in order to fit into social environments. This can look different for every person and may happen at school, work, social events, or in everyday interactions. 💙
 
While masking may help someone blend in socially, it can also be emotionally exhausting and overwhelming over time. Because of this, autism is not always obvious from the outside — which is one reason why understanding, acceptance, and supportive environments matter so much. 🌱
 
At the Cope Center for Autism, we believe every individual deserves to feel safe, understood, and supported as their authentic self.
 
We strive to create supportive, inclusive environments through our enrichment programs, where individuals can build confidence, social connections, creativity, independence and more in a space that celebrates neurodiversity. 💫
 
Learn more here: https://copecenterforautism.org/unwind-afterschool/
 

Processing time matters.💙 Some autistic individuals may need extra time to process information, organize thoughts, or re...
05/12/2026

Processing time matters.💙
 
Some autistic individuals may need extra time to process information, organize thoughts, or respond during conversations. Pausing, being patient with silence, and reducing pressure can help create more supportive and respectful communication experiences. 🤝

Small changes in how we communicate can make a meaningful difference in helping autistic individuals feel heard, understood, and comfortable expressing themselves. ✨
 
At the Cope Center for Autism and beyond, through encouraging understanding and creating inclusive environments, we can help individuals thrive as their authentic selves. 🌱
 

❌ MYTH: “You can always tell if someone is autistic.”✅ FACT: Autism can look very different from person to person, and n...
05/11/2026

❌ MYTH: “You can always tell if someone is autistic.”
✅ FACT: Autism can look very different from person to person, and not all traits are immediately visible. 
 
Autism does not have one specific “look.” Some autistic individuals may have more visible support needs, while others may mask or internalize their challenges, especially in social settings.
 
Every autistic individual has their own unique strengths, communication style, interests, sensory experiences, and support needs. 💙
 
Because autism can look different across individuals, some people may go undiagnosed or be diagnosed later in life. Greater understanding and awareness can help individuals access the support, accommodations, and resources they deserve. 🤝
 
At the Cope Center for Autism, we provide prompt, comprehensive autism evaluations to help families gain clarity, understanding, and connection to support. Early recognition and individualized care can make a meaningful difference. ✨
 

☀️ Join Us for the Unwind Open House! 🌴The Cope Center for Autism invites families, school district staff, CST members, ...
05/11/2026

☀️ Join Us for the Unwind Open House! 🌴

The Cope Center for Autism invites families, school district staff, CST members, related service professionals, ABA providers, and community partners to visit and learn more about Unwind, our enrichment program for autistic individuals.

Unwind is designed to provide a warm, supportive environment where participants can relax, build confidence, connect with peers, and engage in meaningful recreational and social experiences.

During our Open House, guests will have the opportunity to:
✨ Tour our space
✨ Meet our team
✨ Learn about current and upcoming programs
✨ Explore opportunities for collaboration and community connection
✨ Ask questions about participant fit and program structure

📅 Saturday, June 6th
⏰ 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
📍 Cope Center for Autism
579 Franklin Turnpike, Lower Level
Ridgewood, NJ 07450

No RSVP required. Stop by anytime during open house hours!

We look forward to connecting with families and professionals throughout our community. 💙

05/08/2026

Cinco de Mayo Celebration for this week’s Fun Friday at Unwind! Tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and a fun, informative presentation on a special day in Mexican culture and history! 🇲🇽🌮

Learn more about Unwind here: https://copecenterforautism.org/unwind-afterschool/

Ever wondered what an autism evaluation actually looks like? 👀 Autism evaluations are designed to better understand how ...
05/07/2026

Ever wondered what an autism evaluation actually looks like? 👀
 
Autism evaluations are designed to better understand how an individual communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. Tools like the ADOS and CARS are commonly used as part of the diagnostic process, helping clinicians determine whether an individual meets criteria for autism.
 
💡 The ADOS focuses on play-based activities and conversation to understand communication, social interaction, and behavior.
💡 The CARS helps identify patterns across behavior, communication, and social interaction through clinician-guided ratings.
 
These tools are not used in isolation. They are combined with caregiver interviews and clinical expertise to make an informed, comprehensive diagnosis.
 
At the Cope Center for Autism, we prioritize prompt, comprehensive evaluations so families can access answers, supports, and services sooner. Early understanding can make a meaningful difference. 💙
 
If you have concerns, seeking an evaluation can be a powerful first step.
 

Introducing Flow & Connect 🌿💙A yoga and social play group designed for autistic children ages 7–10 years old.This small-...
05/06/2026

Introducing Flow & Connect 🌿💙
A yoga and social play group designed for autistic children ages 7–10 years old.

This small-group program combines movement, social interaction, predictable routines, and low-pressure fun in a supportive environment where children can build confidence, regulation skills, and peer connections.

Participants will enjoy:
🧘 Yoga and movement activities
🎲 Games and social play
🍎 Snack and hangout time
🤝 Gentle support, modeling, and encouragement

Skills developed include:
• Movement, balance, and coordination
• Attention and following directions
• Emotional regulation and peer interaction

This is also a wonderful opportunity for participants currently receiving in-home ABA services who would benefit from practicing and generalizing social, communication, and regulation skills in a structured community setting with peers.

ABA providers may join participants during sessions to support skill generalization and participation. Families interested in this option are encouraged to inquire for additional details.

📅 Mondays | May 11th – June 22nd, 2026
📍 Cope Center for Autism
579 Franklin Turnpike, Ridgewood, NJ

Session Options:
• Session 1: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
🔗 Register Here: https://www.hisawyer.com/cope-center-for-autism/schedules/activity-set/1889914

• Session 2: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
🔗 Register Here: https://www.hisawyer.com/cope-center-for-autism/schedules/activity-set/1889917

Registration required. Space is limited!

Parenting a child or teen with autism can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to navigate it alone 💙Join us ...
05/06/2026

Parenting a child or teen with autism can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to navigate it alone 💙

Join us for our Parent Connection Group, a welcoming space for parents and caregivers of autistic children and teens to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and receive support from others who truly understand.

This relaxed, conversation-based group is guided by a professional social worker and designed to create meaningful connection, real conversations, and a supportive community.

📅 June 4th, 2026
⏰ 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Cope Center for Autism
579 Franklin Tpke, Ridgewood, NJ

☕ Light refreshments provided

Registration is required.

🔗 Register here: https://www.hisawyer.com/cope-center-for-autism/schedules/activity-set/1893685

Siblings need support too 💙Join us for Autism SibConnect, a free support group designed for siblings ages 8–12 of autist...
05/06/2026

Siblings need support too 💙

Join us for Autism SibConnect, a free support group designed for siblings ages 8–12 of autistic children and teens. This welcoming group gives siblings a space to connect with peers, express their feelings, build coping strategies, and simply feel seen, heard, and supported.

Participants will enjoy:
🍕 Pizza dinner
🗣 Guided group discussions
🎨 Fun, structured activities
🤝 Opportunities to connect with peers navigating similar experiences

📅 May 28th & June 25th
⏰ 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Cope Center for Autism
579 Franklin Turnpike, Ridgewood, NJ

Spots are limited and registration is required!

🔗 Register here: https://www.hisawyer.com/cope-center-for-autism/schedules/activity-set/1888754

This past weekend, our Unwind community came together for a fun-filled Spring Fling! 🌷🦋✨ From crafting and cookie decora...
05/06/2026

This past weekend, our Unwind community came together for a fun-filled Spring Fling! 🌷🦋✨
 
From crafting and cookie decorating 🎨🍪 to music, games, laughter, and friendly Mario Kart competition 🎮, the afternoon was filled with connection, creativity, and joy. It was so special to see autistic tweens and teens spending time together in a welcoming environment where they could relax, socialize, and simply have fun being themselves. 🤝✨
 
At the Cope Center for Autism, support looks like creating spaces where individuals feel included, celebrated, and connected. 💙
 
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the event such a success! We loved spending the afternoon with you all. 🌸
 
 

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579 Franklin Turnpike
Ridgewood, NJ
07450

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