Since 1949 Franciscan Children’s has served children and adolescents with complex medical, mental health and educational needs. We’re the only pediatric post-acute provider in New England, and many times, we tackle the challenges that others can’t or won’t. It is our privilege to care for children who need our help and their spirit motivates and inspires us every day.
Located in Brighton, Massachusetts, we are an integral part of Boston’s important pediatric medical ecosystem. Many of the region’s top physicians and hospitals refer to us because of our unparalleled level of expertise.
The spirit of the children, and the people who care for them, are what make all the difference. We provide the children we serve with compassion, a commitment to excellence and a positive spirit that is unwavering. At our very core, we believe that every child deserves the chance to reach their fullest potential and live their best life.
Please note that without member information we cannot guarantee that your specific plan covers these services. We recommend asking the care provider before beginning services.
I never imagined Id be writing a review like this but after what Franciscan Childrens did to our 12-month-old son I cant stay quiet.Our baby is...
Taylin B.
May 4, 2025
yelp review
If you are considering Franciscan Childrens for your child please read this first.Ive never written a Yelp review like this before but after what...
John R.
May 4, 2025
yelp review
Dental department is very disorganized and not accommodating. We needed an emergency procedure for an individual on the autism spectrum and explained to...
Anonymous R.
April 26, 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
Use visual aids. You can use picture schedules, videos, social stories, and other visual aids to show your child what to expect.
Take your child for a practice visit. This can be the same as the orientation visit, or it can be a “dry run” of an appointment where the dentist doesn’t actually work on your child’s teeth yet.
Bring items to fulfill sensory needs. Bringing your child’s favorite fidgets and toys so they can play during the appointment will be helpful.
Reduce unnecessary stress before and after. Reduce demands by wearing comfortable clothes, getting lots of rest, eliminating unnecessary activities (like grocery shopping — order for pick up!), and doing the things that relax your child. Your child will be able to regulate better when every day stressors are kept at a minimum.
Your pediatrician might be able to administer screenings, but most general doctors are not trained to formally diagnose autism. They might refer you to a qualified diagnostic clinician which include:
Developmental Pediatricians
Child Psychologists
Child Psychiatrists
Pediatric Neurologists
Pediatric Neuropsychologists
Your experience might look different depending on the type of clinician you choose. Many families prefer working with developmental pediatricians. Others might work with a psychiatrist or another specialist to get a different perspective.
A formal ASD diagnosis, or a medical diagnosis, helps you get the support your family needs, especially within the context of accessing medically necessary therapies and services.
Insurance Coverage for Therapies: Medically necessary therapies for ASD are often covered by insurance including, but not limited to, speech therapy, ABA therapy, and occupational therapy.
Financial Support: A diagnosis is required when applying for social security or disability benefits.
Plan for Care: A diagnosis helps identify your child’s support needs. For example, your child might need to develop social communication and self-regulation skills.
Future Research: The more data we gather through evaluations, the more we can improve services for autistic children and adults.
0 to 21 years
In-office
English
