ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy helps in clearly defining and modifying the behaviors of children with autism.
What Does an ABA Program Include?
Good ABA programs for autism are not ‘one size fits all.’ ABA should not be seen as a set of pre-made exercises. Instead, every program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each student.
The goal of any ABA program is to help each individual work on skills that will help them become more independent and successful in the short term and in the future.
Planning and Continuous Evaluation
A qualified and trained behavior analyst designs and directly supervises the program. They customize the ABA program according to each student’s skills, needs, interests, preferences, and family situation.
Before starting the therapy, the therapist conducts a detailed assessment of each child’s skills and preferences and creates an individualized educational program. Family goals and preferences can also be included in the individual education program.
Educational goals are written according to the child’s age and ability level.
Educational goals can include many different skill areas, such as:
- Communication and language
- Social skills
- Personal care (such as showering and toileting)
- Play and leisure
- Motor skills
- Learning and academic skills
The teaching plan breaks down each of these skills into small, concrete steps. The therapist teaches each step one by one, from simple (e.g., imitating sounds) to more complex (e.g., maintaining a conversation).
Therapists collect data during each therapy session to measure progress. The data helps them continuously monitor the individual’s progress toward the goals.
The behavior analyst meets regularly with family members to review information about progress. They can then plan ahead and adjust teaching plans and goals as needed.
ABA is effective for people of all ages. It can be used from early childhood to adulthood!