When a child is diagnosed with autism, parents are typically offered a variety of treatment options. One of the most commonly used and best-studied of these is ABA therapy. But what is ABA therapy, and how does it assist children with autism to develop, learn, and grow?
This article educates parents regarding therapy in its entirety, describing its underlying assumptions, advantages, methods, and what they can expect from the process.
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA. or Applied Behavior Analysis is the scientific procedure of deliberate and objective analysis and modification of behavior by systematic and functional relation to the way people or other living things act or behave. It is a technique that uses the principles of behavior and learning to create long-lasting, positive changes in human behavior.
The objective of therapy is to reduce behaviors that hinder academic achievement and growth while increasing positive skills.It is highly individualized and data-driven, so the program for each child is specifically developed for him or her and is monitored frequently.
How ABA Therapy Helps Children with Autism
Children with autism frequently struggle with social interaction, communication, and daily living skills.
ABA therapy specifically addresses these through the division of complex activities into small steps and encouraging positive behavior. Some of the universal goals of ABA therapy include:
- Creating verbal and non-verbal communication
- Enhancing social interactions and play skills
- Learning methods of self-care including eating, dressing, and brushing your teeth
- Lessening problem behaviors such as aggression or self-injury
- Improving attention and concentration in work
Since ABA therapy is adaptive and can be changed according to the need of the individual, it can be done in any setting such as home, school, clinic, and community.
Basic ABA Therapy Principles
ABA therapy is based on some basic principles because of which it is useful in the treatment of autism children:
1. Positive Reinforcement
This is the foundation of ABA therapy. When a child exhibits a targeted behavior, he or she is rewarded (e.g., praise, toy, or favorite activity). This makes them repeat the behavior.
2. Individualized Programs
No two children are alike. ABA therapists evaluate each child’s strength and weaknesses and create an individual program to work on targeted areas of improvement.
3. Skill Building Through Discrete Trials
Tutors use systematic teaching approaches in which skills are divided into very minute, incremental steps. Every trial has a definite start and finish point, thus allowing for effective learning.
4. Data-Driven Decisions
ABA therapists measure data every time they work with a child to track how a child is doing. They make decisions based on what the data indicates in a bid to keep the child on track.
5. Generalization and Maintenance
It is more than just teaching skills within one setting for a child to maintain. ABA therapy involves developing skills in various settings and with various individuals to ensure the change is maintained.
What Does a Session of ABA Therapy Look Like?
A session of ABA will vary based on the setting and child’s goals, but an average session can involve:
- Warm-up activities: Playing or interacting with the child to establish rapport
- Skill development activities: Executing specific skills like obeying commands, gazing at the eyes, or speaking to communicate needs
- Behavior management: Changing any difficult behaviors and teaching good alternatives
- Breaks and reinforcement: Reinforcing using toys, treats, or praise
- Parent involvement: Parents learn in some sessions how to implement ABA techniques at home
Sessions are between 1-3 hours and several times per week, depending on the needs and treatment plan of the child.
Role of the ABA Therapy Team
A balanced ABA program typically has a group of professionals working together:
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): Organizes the treatment plan, monitors progress, and makes changes
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT): Serves as a presenter to the child while being supervised by a BCBA
- Parents and caregivers: Play an active role in reinforcing skills at home and in ensuring consistency with routines
Successful ABA therapy is dependent upon teamwork among all members of the team, including family members.
Frequently Asked Questions About ABA Therapy
There are several common questions parents have when thinking about therapy. Below are a few:
1. “Is it too rigid?”
While some ABA tactics might be formalized, contemporary ABA is more about learning through doing actual-life tasks and tailoring shaping sessions to the interests and comfort of a child.
2. “Will it suppress my child’s personality?”
ABA therapy isn’t about changing a child. Rather, it’s about giving them the skills that will make them more independent and have a better quality of life.
3. “Is ABA therapy science-based?”
In fact, the best studied and verified therapy for kids with autism is .There are many studies that confirm it is effective in establishing a variety of skills.
Selecting the Best ABA Provider
Not all ABA programs are equal. When choosing a provider, take the following into consideration:
- Credentials: Make sure BCBAs and RBTs are adequately certified
- Experience: Ask about experience with children like yours
- Parent involvement: Select a provider who emphasizes working with families
- Method: Seek out therapists that employ the use of positive reinforcement and individual planning
- Communication: There needs to be ongoing updates and progress reports included in the service
Request a consultation so that you can sit in on a session or review their philosophy prior to committing.
If you are looking for an ABA therapist in North Carolina? Symphony ABA Therapy provides one-on-one, professional ABA therapy to guide your child’s growth.
Final Thoughts
ABA therapy can be a life-altering tool for children with autism and their families. Through individualized instruction, reinforcement of desired behaviors, and family involvement, ABA helps children learn essential skills and capabilities to reach their full potential.
If you’re a parent exploring options for your child, consider speaking with a qualified provider to learn more about how this therapy can fit into your child’s developmental journey. With the right team, guidance, and support, your child can thrive—one step at a time.