The Buddy Center

08/24/2026

Meet the Team! 💛

We’re so proud of the incredible team behind The Buddy Center. Each member plays an important role in creating a supportive, collaborative environment for the children and families we serve.

Lacey Shaw | Clinical Director
Lacey oversees the clinical operations of The Buddy Center and helps coordinate the day-to-day needs of the clinic. She works closely with our clinical team to ensure high-quality care, supports our BCBAs and RBTs, and helps make sure each child’s treatment needs are being met.

Kim Finger | Owner & Founder
Kim is the owner and founder of The Buddy Center. Her vision is at the heart of everything we do, from creating a welcoming environment for families to building a team that is passionate about providing meaningful, individualized care.

Carmen Amado | Senior BCBA
Carmen is our Senior BCBA and provides clinical support and guidance to our RBTs. She helps oversee treatment plans, monitors each child’s progress, and works closely with families and the clinical team to make sure every child receives care tailored to their individual needs.

08/18/2026

Helping your child build independence in daily routines is one of the most powerful skills you can teach.

Small steps now can lead to confidence, self-sufficiency, and reduced frustration for both you and your child. Here’s a few tips that can help:

1️⃣ Break tasks into smaller steps – Instead of ‘get dressed,’ try ‘put on socks’ → ‘put on shoes’ → ‘put on jacket.’ Clear, achievable steps make success possible.

2️⃣ Use visual supports – Charts, checklists, or picture schedules help children know what to do next and reduce reliance on reminders.

3️⃣ Offer choices – Let your child make decisions like picking between two outfits or choosing breakfast. Choice builds confidence and ownership.

4️⃣ Model the routine – Demonstrate how a task is done, then let your child try. Gradually fade guidance as they gain mastery.

5️⃣ Reinforce success – Praise efforts, not just results. Celebrate each step completed independently. Positive reinforcement encourages repetition.

6️⃣ Be patient and consistent – Independence takes practice. Keep routines predictable and provide gentle guidance when needed.

Encouraging independence isn’t just about tasks—it’s about giving your child the skills to feel capable and confident in everyday life. 💪💙

08/11/2026

Join our team on August 21st for a sensory friendly day at the Spartanburg Children's Museum.

This is a great activity for those with sensitivities to come enjoy the museum and socialize with other kids!

Our buddies will be there and we hope to see you there!

10am- 1pm

130 Magnolia St
Spartanburg, SC 29306

08/04/2026

Some moments deserve a permanent place on the wall. 💚

We're proud to have one of our news features displayed in our hallway—a reminder of the incredible community that has supported us along the way.

Every milestone represents the families we serve, the dedication of our team, and our commitment to making a meaningful difference every day.

07/27/2026

Countdown to Kindergarten!

Join us for this FREE community event designed to help rising 3K, 4K, and Kindergarten students prepare for their first day of school! Families can connect with local organizations focused on school readiness and childhood development while children enjoy hands-on activities like mock classrooms, practicing lunchroom skills, and more.

RSVP encouraged but not required.

This event will take place in and outside of the Spartanburg Childrens Museum on Magnolia Street.

July 31st. 5pm-7pm

130 MAGNOLIA STREET
SPARTANBURG, SC 29306

RSVP Here

https://tcmupstate.org/spartanburg/countdowntokindergarten/

07/24/2026

Happy Friday from all of us at The Buddy Center! 🌟

Every small step, every new skill, and every smile is worth celebrating. We're so proud of the incredible progress our learners make each week and grateful for the amazing families who trust us to be part of their journey. 💚

07/17/2026

Join us for another sensory friendly night at the Shipwreck Cove Waterpark in Duncan on Monday July 20th!

07/13/2026

Join us this Friday, July 17th for another sensory friendly day at the Spartanburg Childrens Museum.

This is a great activity for those with sensitivties to come enjoy the museum and socialize.

Our buddies will be there and we hope to see you there!

130 Magnolia St
Spartanburg, SC 29306

07/10/2026

Join us for this free community event on Friday July 31st!

Families can connect with local organizations focused on school readiness and childhood development while children enjoy hands-on activities like mock classrooms, practicing lunchroom skills, and more.

At the Spartanburg Childrens Museum

RSVP below!

It's time to get ready for the upcoming school year! Countdown to Kindergarten returns on Friday, July 31st at TCMU-Spartanburg.