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Parent's Guide
Parent's Guide
Nurturing a child with developmental delays entails a distinctive journey. There is a wealth of information to grasp and comprehend concerning your child, the obstacles they may encounter, and the assistance they will require in the upcoming years. Acquiring even a small amount of knowledge can significantly contribute to your sense of readiness. To assist you as you embark on this novel path, we have assembled a comprehensive resource covering everything you need to understand about ABA therapy.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the principles of behaviorism to bring about positive behavioral changes. ABA is widely recognized as an effective treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but it is also used in various other contexts to address a range of behavioral challenges and disorders.
Is ABA effective?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) stands out as the leading approach for children dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental delays. Recognized as an evidence-based best-practice treatment, both the US Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association endorse ABA.
While there are no instant remedies for developmental delays, ABA therapy consistently emerges as the most frequently recommended choice for ASD. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), The National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the U.S. Surgeon General all advocate for ABA. Furthermore, major insurance companies, state health agencies, the American Medical Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics all express support for the implementation of ABA.
Types of ABA Therapy
Discrete trial Training
Discrete trial Training
Discrete trial Training
The therapist initiates a prompt, instructing your child to engage in a desired behavior, followed by rewarding the behavior. This sequence is then repeated until the desired behavior becomes self-initiated. For instance, if Molly is using modeling clay to relax, the therapist positions themselves across from Molly, establishes eye contac
The therapist initiates a prompt, instructing your child to engage in a desired behavior, followed by rewarding the behavior. This sequence is then repeated until the desired behavior becomes self-initiated. For instance, if Molly is using modeling clay to relax, the therapist positions themselves across from Molly, establishes eye contact, and instructs, "put down the clay." If Molly complies with the instructions, she receives a reward, such as a chocolate chip (the incentive can range from physical contact to tangible items or anything in between). Subsequently, the therapist repeats the prompt, saying, "Molly, put down the clay." Molly is likely to comply, anticipating the special reward of her sweet chocolate chip.
Modeling
Discrete trial Training
Discrete trial Training
Modeling in ABA therapy involves demonstrating the desired behavior. The therapist may use in-person, video, or audio examples to illustrate what the individual is expected to do. For example, during a session, Molly and her ABA therapist sit at a low table. The therapist presents Molly with a mini video clip on an iPad, showing a child j
Modeling in ABA therapy involves demonstrating the desired behavior. The therapist may use in-person, video, or audio examples to illustrate what the individual is expected to do. For example, during a session, Molly and her ABA therapist sit at a low table. The therapist presents Molly with a mini video clip on an iPad, showing a child jumping up and down and clapping. Enthralled by the video, Molly imitates the actions demonstrated when the video concludes. As a reward for her imitation, Molly receives a gentle cuddle from her therapist. This pattern continues as Molly watches additional prompts, imitates more actions, and receives further incentives, making the session an enjoyable experience for her.
Picture exchange communication System (pecs)
Picture exchange communication System (pecs)
Picture exchange communication System (pecs)
PECS uses images to facilitate the teaching of communication and vocabulary skills, typically targeting children. In this approach, the child offers the therapist a picture representing the desired object, and in return, the therapist provides the actual item. This system is consistently utilized to convey new words, phrases, and more.
For
PECS uses images to facilitate the teaching of communication and vocabulary skills, typically targeting children. In this approach, the child offers the therapist a picture representing the desired object, and in return, the therapist provides the actual item. This system is consistently utilized to convey new words, phrases, and more.
For instance, Molly is presented with five cards featuring various pictures, including her favorite teddy bear, a cup of juice, M&M’s, a bubble wand, and a sensory toy. Holding a cup of juice, the therapist engages Molly. She scans her picture cards and hands the therapist the image depicting the juice cup. In response, Molly receives her cup of juice and indulges in the refreshing treat.
Reinforcement Systems
Picture exchange communication System (pecs)
Picture exchange communication System (pecs)
Involves teaching children about the outcomes of specific behaviors. When a child fails to exhibit the desired behavior, the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) may encourage them to try again or delay their reward until compliance is achieved. Conversely, when the child successfully performs the desired behavior, they receive positive
Involves teaching children about the outcomes of specific behaviors. When a child fails to exhibit the desired behavior, the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) may encourage them to try again or delay their reward until compliance is achieved. Conversely, when the child successfully performs the desired behavior, they receive positive reinforcement or a reward. These three ABA techniques leverage consequences to encourage appropriate behavior. In instances where the child resists obeying, complying, or responding to the request, a reassessment of the request and its associated consequences is necessary.