What is ABA?

About ABA

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based therapy promoted by the CDC to help children with autism develop essential skills and improve behaviors. ABA works on increasing behaviors that benefit the child (such as functional language) and decreasing behaviors that interfere with learning and socialization (such as aggression) by using proven techniques such as positive reinforcement.

ABA therapy begins with a thorough assessment done by a Master’s level Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The BCBA will pinpoint strengths and gaps in your child’s skillset and identify the factors that contribute to interfering behaviors. By identifying your child’s unique needs, the BCBA can develop a personalized plan that promotes growth in areas like communication and social skills.

The effectiveness of ABA lies in its data-driven approach and its ability to adapt strategies based on your child’s progress. By setting clear goals and tracking improvements, ABA therapy ensures that interventions are both effective and measurable, making it a powerful therapy for helping children with autism reach their full potential.

What does ABA work on?

All goals worked on during ABA therapy must meet medical necessity, meaning that they must target the core deficits of autism: language/communication, social skills, and restrictive or repetitive behaviors.

Below are examples of goals that may be in a child’s treatment plan. All goals that are chosen for your child will be based on their individual assessment results and needs.

(Names and photos below are fake and used for example purposes only.)

Olivia, age 2

Language/Communication:

  • Asking for items that she wants or needs

  • Naming (labeling) objects and people

  • Following simple instructions

Social/Play:

  • Matching and stacking

  • Cause and effect play

  • Interacting with multiple types of toys

  • Parallel play with other children

  • Imitating (copying) simple actions of others

Paxton, age 4

Language/Communication:

  • Using prepositions, pronouns, adjectives & adverbs

  • Asking and answering WH questions

  • Following multi-step instructions

  • Recalling past events

Social/Play:

  • Sorting and patterning

  • Pretend and imaginary play

  • Independent play

  • Simple conversations with peers

James, age 8

Language/Communication:

  • Communicating emotions and internal feelings

  • Using coping strategies

  • Understanding metaphors

  • Recalling past events and predicting future

Social/Play:

  • Compromising with peers

  • Reading and following community signs

  • Telling jokes and understanding sarcasm

  • Problem solving

Not seeing examples of what your child needs help with? See our FAQ page!

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