There are a lot of preconceived ideas and opinions about ABA, and many companies prepackage plans that supposedly provide a family with an ABA program. It is crucial to remember that there is no single program or plan that "is" ABA.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
So what is ABA?
It is simply the application of behavioral principles, to everyday situations, that will, over time, increase or decrease targeted behaviors.
Pediatric Therapy Studio focuses on utilizing the principles of positive reinforcement to increase the likelihood that desired behaviors will occur. ABA is used to teach a wide variety of skills, including:
Independent and functional
Benefits of ABA Therapy
Halting negative patterns of thinking
Addressing bad habits
Improved school performance
Better social interactions
WHo benefits from ABA?
ABA is effective with a wide spectrum of behaviors and ability levels; Autism, Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Traumatic Brain Injuries, Down Syndrome, Developmental Disabilities, Problem Behaviors, Tantrums, Physical Aggression, Self-Injurious Behaviors and Noncompliance.
ABA consists of intensive programming that is tailored to the child’s needs. Depending on the individual’s skill level, range and level of disability the amount of hours for services will vary.
Does ABA Really Work?
Organizations that endorse Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as a safe and effective treatment for autism include:
What is the role of the parent in an ABA program?
Parents are indispensable in the child's program. They play a necessary and critical role. Studies show that children whose parents are actively engaged in the process make measurable gains. First, no one knows the child better than the parent; the parent's provide critical and insightful information that will help guide the ABA program. Second, parents are able to continue to prompt and reinforce the child through his and her various daily activities - an essential component to generalizing skills.
Finally, parents are in a position to be able to record and track ABC data in the home and community setting. This information is vital in hypothesizing the function (the "why") of specific behaviors as well as for determining what conditions encourage behaviors to occur.
We are pleased to work with the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) to use their assessment and curriculum SKILLS with our clients when it's appropriate. For additional information on this tool, please visit their website: www.skillsforautism.com