How Early Intervention ABA Therapy Benefits Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder affects children in various ways, including their communication, behavior, and social skills. Early intervention therapy is crucial in shaping the developmental trajectory of children with Autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is research-based and one of the most effective methods available. At Peak Behavioral Health, we always share with parents how early ABA therapy improves outcomes for children with Autism. ABA is life-changing for many children and their families. Read on to learn more about ABA and how it can help your child.
What is ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy uses positive reinforcement strategies to help children with Autism improve their communication skills, enhance their social interactions, and increase their independence. The goal is to reduce challenging behaviors such as tantrums or aggression and reinforce positive responses to teach children appropriate behaviors. ABA therapy can be done in many different settings, including at school, in the home, or out in public. ABA therapy does not look the same for every child. The therapy is tailored to the individual child and their specific needs.
How it Works
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder often struggle to communicate with others. ABA therapy teaches kids how to communicate by identifying target communication skills, modeling the behavior, and providing positive reinforcement when the child completes the skill. For example, an ABA therapist might teach a child to ask their mom for a toy. The therapist would model how to do this and then provide prompts for the child to try. Once the child successfully asked for a toy, they would be rewarded with positive verbal feedback or with a prize such as a sticker. Over time, the therapist teaches the child to generalize the skill and apply it in other situations while gradually reducing the number of prompts they give. The therapist continuously tracks progress and makes changes when necessary. These same steps of modeling, prompting, and reinforcing can be used across many different target skill sets.
How Early ABA Improves Outcomes for Children with Autism
ABA therapy helps children in all aspects of life. From improving their communication skills to helping them understand how to engage with others in social settings, it’s a great way to help children with Autism to become more independent. ABA helps children with Autism to learn the needed skills to be successful at school, at home, and in various other environments. The therapy also encourages family involvement and support so parents can implement ABA techniques at home. As with any intervention method, the earlier it’s utilized, the better!
At Peak Behavioral Health, we are constantly advocating for how early ABA improves outcomes for children with Autism. We offer comprehensive treatment plans that include home-based ABA therapy. If you suspect your child is on the Autism Spectrum, visit us for an evaluation from our interdisciplinary team, which includes a psychologist, speech-language pathologist, and occupational therapist. Once diagnosed, we will work together with your family to create the best treatment plan possible to help your child succeed. Contact us today to learn more about our services.