Step 1: Learn about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
It is a form of therapy that uses a scientific approach based on principles of learning and having a greater understanding of behaviors, to effectively teach. These principles of behavior are applied to improve socially significant behaviors. (Target treatment goals). It is the “why” factor behind the behaviors that will have the greatest impact on a child’s quality of life.
ABA are skills that children should be learning on a continuous basis, to build endurance and confidence in their own abilities. Just as a Gryphon is known for its incredible strength, a child with autism is always unique, totally interesting, and may sometimes be mysterious.
ABA therapy can help children with autism acquire new skills and overcome a wide variety of developmental challenges. As parents, our role in the lives of our children’s educational journey is to come alongside them to educate, love and support. In doing so, you will undoubtedly set them up for great success. What better place to teach a child with autism than at home?
Education first, begins at home. Home therapy is a child’s most natural environment to learn, grow, and explore. Applied Behavior Analysis is an excellent tool that ABA therapists use to create an individualized plan that reaches the individual’s goals. I can’t stress the importance of how quality ABA therapy brings about life altering results.
The infamous Benjamin Franklin once said:
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn”.
If a child doesn’t learn the way an ABA therapist teaches, the ABA therapist will teach then the way the child learns. The therapist’s ability to discern and be rhythmically in tune with their learners teaching style, is what makes them a good therapist. A truly great ABA therapist, however, is hard to find, and impossible to forget.
Step 2: Be consistent & Stick to the schedule
It is imperative to be present and active for generalization purposes in your child’s ABA therapy. The key to ABA therapy is having a high level of parent involvement. Focus on the relationship between you and your child, as you celebrate small successes along the way. I truly believe one of the greatest gifts a parent can give their child is unconditional love. You love them, just because. Your unconditional love is sufficient.
Find a regime that works for your child and stick to it. Children tend to thrive when their environment is structured. It keeps them safe and knows exactly what to expect.
Most certainly, you cannot control the uncontrollable, however, you can prepare your child in advance for schedule changes. Let’s be honest, sometimes life happens. Teaching and giving your child the art of pivoting is necessary for their future advancement. Inconsistency can bring about anxiety and frustration which is often perceived as challenging behavior.
Step 3: Educate Yourself About Autism
Awareness is the key to intervention. With early intervention and early identification, you can have a greater outcome in helping your child step forward towards a brighter future. No one is too young or too old to receive ABA therapy.
Applied Behavior Analysis is typically done in a 1:1 ratio, which allows you to track the continual progress of your child. Working collaboratively with your child’s ABA therapist is vital in supporting all your child’s needs. What greater reward than to see your child become more independent and communicate more effectively? ABA therapists utilize ABA therapy to give parents strategies to help prevent tantrums at home.
Pay attention to what triggers your child’s challenging or disruptive behaviors. Become aware of what evokes a positive response. Be emotionally strong and healthy. This positions you to be the parent you were designed to be, while focusing on your child’s strengths.
Find resources and strategies such as this blog post, to help navigate and empower you, as you teach with excellence from the confinement of your home. As always, make time for fun!
Partner With Professional ABA Therapists
By educating yourself and reaching out to a professional like Step Forward ABA, you can help your child get the continual development that deserves and reach the next level. If you’re looking for more information or guidance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team and ask about our in-home ABA therapy service.
Step Forward ABA always considers each child’s needs and situation. Customizing a therapy plan just for them and reviewing it with you it’s our priority. Help your children thrive; Get more information today!
