As parents, we naturally want the best for our children. We want our kids to grow up healthy and happy, so we do everything we can to prepare them for the challenges ahead.
Some kids need more guidance and support, such as those who may have neurological and developmental disorders, communication challenges, or difficulties navigating the world around them. Fortunately, there are ways for children to work on overcoming hurdles. One of them is by undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
ABA is a holistic approach that benefits people of all ages and abilities. Studies show that Applied Behavior Analysis can have a positive impact on many different aspects of life. This play-based type of therapy incorporates positive reinforcement, helping make sessions both productive and enjoyable for young clients.
Here’s how ABA can empower your child and help empower their futures:
ABA for Children With Autism
ABA is one of the most effective forms of therapy for kids with autism. ABA helps young children with autism positively navigate their social lives and become more independent. Success stories with ABA include an increased likelihood of integrating into classes with the general school population without assistance (or with minimal assistance) from a caretaker or a teacher.
ABA Sessions
As all children are unique, so are ABA sessions. In a typical ABA therapy session, a board-certified clinician typically works on a goal (for example, getting dressed in the morning).
Sessions are tailored around working on that skill and can change from session to session based on the progress made. The skills, as the sessions, are highly individualized. By breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps, ABA therapy fosters learning and independence.
When the child demonstrates a desirable behavior or a skill, they receive a reward. For instance, if a child willingly cleans up their toys after playtime, they’re rewarded with praise for their behavior or given a book or a preferred toy to play with. Positive reinforcement, especially when combined with clear expectations, can be a powerful motivator for children as they learn and grow.
Sessions may also involve techniques to gently redirect challenging behaviors (so children know how to replace unhelpful actions or reactions with more positive ones). Knowing how to do so improves their social skills, encouraging them to participate more in the community, build friendships, and work well with others.
ABA: Structure and Independence
Children with autism may also become more independent through ABA therapy. Since autism can affect how people learn, performing certain tasks, like making their bed or maneuvering interactions with new people, might be more difficult. Learning in sessions isn’t only about problem-solving — research shows that building life skills helps young people build confidence.
ABA therapy relies on a variety of teaching tools, largely through one-on-one therapy and naturalistic group activities. A therapist may illustrate a step-by-step guide to doing simple tasks, and children are instructed to follow these steps in the proper order. Other times, a therapist might read aloud a social story before playtime, helping children to center on a particular skill, like taking turns or waiting in a line.
ABA not only enhances a child’s ability to execute certain tasks, but it also enables them to lead an independent and fulfilling life.
ABA To Improve Communication Skills
Many children have difficulty expressing themselves. However, the pandemic impacted children’s social skills, as constant lockdowns and social distancing measures hindered regular interactions.
Instead of talking face-to-face with people, both adults and children were forced to communicate through online video/chat platforms or social media. Today more than ever, encouraging children to unplug and play with friends is a good way to foster better communication skills.
During a therapy session, a child may be asked by an ABA clinician to engage in role-play exercises to practice communication with peers and elders. They may also be taught to communicate using short phrases and single words that can be applied in commonplace settings. Social skills training to enhance social interactions, such as maintaining eye contact and initiating conversations, may also be included in ABA sessions.
As they get used to having real-life conversations, they may find that their confidence grows with each interaction. Effective communication skills can help young people foster better relationships and can contribute to happiness and independence in their personal and professional lives as adults.
Who Should Conduct ABA Therapy?
Children with autism often face unique challenges in understanding and navigating the world around them. Having a skilled, licensed therapist to guide them through these challenges can be invaluable.
Like in all facets of medicine, providers have their own specialties. A licensed clinician in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an expert at providing care through that module.
They can also share guidance and support the child’s family. Your ABA clinician can give parents and caregivers the knowledge and tools necessary to support their child’s growth and development outside of therapy sessions.
ABA’s focus on continuing practicing at home can work well for empowering children. Parent involvement in a child’s home life is associated with higher rates of self-esteem. Consult a trained and qualified professional who specializes in this therapeutic approach to see what is best for your family.
Setting the Stage for an Empowered Future With ABA Therapy
ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy can play a pivotal role in empowering children with autism for a successful and joyous future. Through structured and evidence-based interventions, ABA therapists help children develop essential skills such as communication, social interaction, and adaptive behaviors.
ABA therapy helps lay the foundation for lifelong learning and empowers children with autism to reach their full potential, fostering independence, inclusion, and happiness in all aspects of life.
Brad Zelinger is the Founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.
Sources:
Applied Behavioral Analysis: Overview, Techniques & Cost | Regis College
Life skills training: Can it increase self esteem and reduce student anxiety? | PMC
Does Parent Involvement Really Help Students? Here’s What the Research Says | Education Week
