Akron Children’s opens center dedicated to patients with autism

AKRON, Ohio — The Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center at Akron Children’s Hospital officially opened Tuesday, which will help give services to children, teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder.

The Zidian family gave a $2 million to help create the center in hopes of improvig access to care and helping other families navigate a child’s diagnosis. 

The 11,020 square-foot center is located at 130 W. Exchange St. on the Akron Children’s man campus. Akron Children’s said the location is easily accesible. 

“We are very excited to be opening a visible center for autism here on the Akron campus that can serve as a hub to help autistic patients and families along their journeys,” said Dr. Jessica Foster, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and medical director of the center. “In addition to the excellent care already available through Akron Children’s programs and offices located in communities across northeast Ohio, the Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center will provide access to specialized services. Our goal is family-centered, coordinated, and inclusive care for our patients and families with autism and related developmental disabilities throughout Akron Children’s, and this new center is another step toward achieving that.”

The center is on the first floor of the building and offers families close parking and easy building access for patients and their families. 

“We’ve created a soothing environment with designated quiet spaces, soft lighting and subtle colors,” said Dr. Allison Burke, a pediatric psychologist and director of the autism diagnostic clinic.

The space was designed for those with autism; the main waiting space has multiple sensory spaces to help keep patients engaged. This includes two bubble feature walls and touch surfaces. Cooridors also have cubbies and reading nooks if patients need to relax and decompress. The center includes six exam rooms for primary care and medical practice, and there are 14 rooms used for autism assessments and other therapies and interventions.