Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate, interact with others, and understand what is happening around them. ASD can manifest in many different ways, from social isolation to restricted imaginative play. There is no “typical” way that ASD develops; it is a lifelong process that can affect anyone, at any age. ABA teaches children with autism at every stage of development how to socially interact with people and learn new skills. ABA therapy helps children on the Autism Spectrum by teaching them how to:
- Process information
- Make decisions
- Set goals
- Take action
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA ( Applied Behaviour Analysis) is a form of behavior modification that was developed in the early 1970s. It is based on the assumption that individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) learn skills by “doing” rather than “reading” information. This behavior modification approach is based on common sense and is not intended to replace children’s earlier learning experiences or instruction. ABA therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that is specific to the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It is different from other forms of therapy in that it does not assume a fixed, predetermined “program” for learning. Rather, the therapist works with the child on an ongoing basis to determine what skills need to be developed and then works to strengthen those skills.
What Are the Benefits of ABA Therapy for Children with Autism?
The main benefits of ABA therapy for children with autism are:
- The empowering and optimistic atmosphere
- Sensory-friendly environment
- On-going support and feedback
- Effective teaching methods
ABA also offers a rich history of success in treating Autism Spectrum Disorders.
How to Teach Your Child with Autism
It can be hard to know where to begin when teaching your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to communicate with others. There are many different skills that can be taught and practiced through ABA therapy, but the most important thing is to find a qualified therapist that can help your child progress at his or her own speed. This can be very challenging in a public school setting with limited support. It can be even more challenging when your child is at home, where there may be no one to help you. While there are many ways to go about this, the most effective way to teach your child with autism to communicate is through ABA therapy. This can be done in a group setting, in an individualized setting, or in a separate room. You can also choose to start your child on ABA therapy when he or she is a little older, but younger children are at a particularly sensitive period in their development. ABA therapy can be used with either verbal or non-verbal children. It is important, however, to remember that ABA training is most effective when it is delivered by a qualified, experienced ABA therapist near Lakewood.
How to Help Your Child with Autism Thrive in Various Settings
Although ABA therapy can be effective in a variety of settings, a good deal of it has to do with the atmosphere and support provided by the environment. When working with children on the Autism Spectrum, the environment can affect how well they process information. For example, a child in an environment where other children are often negative and critical may be less likely to notice when that same child is happy or excited and may be less likely to respond positively when spoken to. Or, a child in an environment that is often stressful and chaotic may not have the opportunity to decompress and relax during ABA therapy. To maximize the benefits of ABA therapy, it is critical to find an environment and support systems that are welcoming and comfortable for the child. This also means that the environment must be regulated, with rules and boundaries that make sense to the child and help him or her to feel safe and accepted.
The Importance of Being Sensitive in Atypical Culture
The importance of being sensitive in an ABA therapy setting cannot be overstated. The therapy environment itself should be sensitive to the needs of the child. For example, an environment that is too cold for a child may be too harsh for an infant on the Autism Spectrum. On the other hand, an environment that is too hot or too noisy for a child may be too tough for a toddler on the Autism Spectrum.
Conclusion
ABA therapy is a beneficial form of therapy that can improve the quality of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. By teaching your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder how to process information, you can open the door to increased communication and more inclusive societies.