What is ABA?
If your child was recently diagnosed with a developmental disability such as autism, you’re likely being bombarded with words and terms you’ve never heard before. We understand this is a stressful time for you. We invite you to relax, take a deep breath, and read some educational (but not overwhelming!) information here on our website. Our goal is to give you a good foundation for getting started on your family’s journey to a happy, healthier life!
If any of your questions are not answered here, feel free to contact us and our friendly staff will gladly answer your questions.
ABA – Applied Behavior Analysis
Behavior analysis is the study of how learning takes place. Over decades of research, experts in behavior analysis have developed a number of principles and techniques for increasing adaptive behaviors and minimizing challenging behaviors or those behaviors that interfere with learning. The word “applied” means practice. Applied Behavior Analysis, therefore, is the practice of manipulating or rearranging the environment in order to bring about positive changes in behavior.
ABA is known to be the most effective method for reducing problem behaviors and expanding the individual’s repertoire of skills.
In individuals with autism, for example, ABA principles and techniques can foster basic skills such as looking, listening, and imitating, as well as more complex skills like reading, conversing, and understanding another person’s perspective. While typically developing children learn from their environment quickly and mostly on their own, children with autism and other developmental disabilities require systematic and structured teaching.
What are the benefits of ABA?
Research has shown that ABA can improve the following areas in the lives of both children and adults:
- Communication
- Social relationships
- Self-care
- Play
- School
- Employment
In addition, ABA is successfully implemented to:
- Teach life skills
- Teach replacement behaviors
- Teach/enhance generalization
- Improve social skills
In short, ABA is a dynamic scientific field derived from research and the development of effective techniques to help individuals with developmental disabilities increase adaptive behaviors and minimize problem/challenging behaviors.
ABA Services
We provide ABA services to individuals of all ages, both at home, school settings and in the community, in places and situations where the individual has the most difficulty.
Parent participation is critical to the success of the program and promoting generalization of the skills the individual has learned. The level or the extent of the service comprehensive or focused depends on each individuals needs and the degree of the challenges he or she presents.
ABA services are usually provided within two formats and within the natural environment of each individual: either directly to the individual or, in some situations, as consultation only to the parents. We use different methodologies based on the principles of ABA to address each person’s individual needs. Examples of some of the methodologies we use are, incidental teaching, chaining, hierarchy of prompts, and differential reinforcement. The methodology we choose is based on the individual’s needs and the expected outcome.
Please contact us with any questions you may have, and we will gladly take the time to talk with you. We look forward to assisting you!
Testimonials
◊ “The biggest change was in me (as a Mom), that is what made the difference.”
◊ “Our daughter is happier now, and so is our family.”
” We can now go out and do things as a family that we never could do before.”
“ABEDI helps people by helping us stay clam, also helps us to learn more and take care of our selves.”
” It’s hard at first because you’re breaking old patterns and the kids resist in the beginning. But the rewards when you come through it are amazing. The kids are calmer, more compliant, and happier.”
*These testimonials were not solicited by ABEDI but were initiated by parents of those who have received services*
