What is ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy, which stands for Applied Behavior Analysis, is a widely recognized and evidence-based treatment approach for children with autism.
How Does ABA Work?
ABA focuses on understanding the relationship between behaviors and the environment. By analyzing these interactions, ABA therapists can develop strategies to:
Reduce unwanted behaviors: This could include aggression, tantrums, or self-injurious behaviors.
Increase desired behaviors and skills: These might include school readiness skills, communication skills (requesting, following instructions), object identification, and social interaction.
The Power of Understanding Why
By identifying the reasons behind a particular behavior, ABA therapy can offer alternative, more appropriate behaviors that fulfill the same underlying need. This empowers children to express themselves effectively and navigate their world with greater success.
Examples of Skills ABA Therapy Can Help Develop:
School readiness skills
Requesting desired items or activities
Following instructions effectively
Identifying objects (both expressively and deceptively)
Building social interaction skills