Understanding ABA Therapy for Kids

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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a well-known and proven way to help kids with autism and other developmental differences. It's based on how we learn and how our actions connect to what's happening around us. ABA therapy helps kids learn new skills and handle behaviors that are challenging. For kids with autism, ABA can make a real difference in their development and how independent they become.
 

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How Does ABA Therapy Work?
 

ABA therapy uses learning principles, like rewards, to encourage good behaviors. When a child does something positive, like asking for a toy or talking clearly, they get a reward. This makes them want to do it again. ABA also helps with behaviors that are tough, like tantrums or getting really upset. It looks at why those behaviors happen and teaches better ways to handle things.
 

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What Can ABA Therapy Help With?
 

ABA therapy is different for each child. It can help with many things, including:
 

Communication: Getting better at talking, using sign language, or other ways to communicate. This includes understanding what others are saying too.
 

Social Skills: Learning how to play with other kids, understand what people mean, and make friends.
 

Daily Living Skills: Getting better at everyday things like getting dressed, eating, and keeping clean, so they can do more on their own.
 

Challenging Behaviors: Helping with things like tantrums, getting angry easily, or doing the same thing over and over. It teaches them better ways to react.
 

Fostering Success in School: Helping with making friends, following the rules, and understanding social expectations.

 

 

What Happens in ABA Therapy?
 

1-to-1 Ratios - Your child will have a dedicated person working directly with them each day to help them achieve their unique goals.
 

A Plan Just for Your Child: A trained therapist will check what your child is good at and what they need help with. Then they make a plan just for them.
 

Different Ways of Teaching: ABA therapy uses lots of ways to teach, like breaking down skills into small steps, practicing in real-life situations, and making learning fun.
 

Play time with Peers: ABA is all about play! Your child will be learning and playing alongside other children each and every day.
 

Focused on School Readiness: The clinic environment is similar to a pre-k/kindergarten classroom with familiar activities like circle time, art and educational games are incorporated into therapy.
 

Checking How Things Are Going: Therapists keep track of how your child is doing to make sure the therapy is working. They can change the plan if they need to.
 

Working Together with Families: Parents are a big part of ABA therapy. In fact, Parent Training is required for all families. Therapists will teach you how to help your child at home too.
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Is ABA Therapy Right for My Child?
 

ABA therapy is mostly used for kids with autism, but it can also help kids with other developmental delays. The best way to know if it's right for your child is to talk to a doctor or call us directly.