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Literacy
Traditional literacy approaches are often linear, moving from letter identification to letter sounds, etc. We believe in exposing all of our clients to many aspects of literacy, from letters to phonemic awareness to beginning level books. We have found that each child accesses literacy differently, and we support and work hard to build upon their interests. We have had clients with severe problem behavior make huge gains once they were able to read. |
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Communication
The key to preventing problem behavior is to give children the ability to communicate! We use a mix of Picture Exchange Communicate System (PECS) and an iPad program called Proloqo2Go to promote communication skills. |
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Fine Motor
As someone who has supported teachers, I recall often being called into classrooms to observe problem behavior in typically developing children. Teachers would often say that math was the child's "trigger." Upon observation, I always found that it wasn't the math that caused the problem, but when the students were asked to write out how they came to a solution, then the behavior erupted. Writing is challenging for children with autism who often have low muscle tone. Therefore, we prioritize helping children develop fine motor skills that allow them to zip their coat, correctly grasp a writing utensil, and so much more! |
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Math
We are always pushing children to develop math skills, as many of our clients enjoy math, and it's an area where they can feel successful. For example, while not exactly math, telling time is critical to preventing problem behavior. We teach children as young as three to tell time because then they have a better understanding of when work is done, and play begins. Children with autism (and typically developing children) do well with schedules and routines, so we give them the keys to the kingdom when they can tell time! |
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What might an ABA session look like?
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst, who has gone through extensive behavioral education, training, and testing will meet with your family, and evaluate your child's strengths and areas for growth. They will then collaborate with you and other providers to write a behavior plan that increases your child’s adaptability in their current environments as well as teach skills that will allow them to function in less-restrictive environments. A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) will work with your child throughout the week in teaching skills while receiving supervision from the Behavior Analyst. ABA will look different for every family based on specific needs, the child’s age, and the setting in which services are provided. Your therapist may work with your child at home, at school, or in the community. Therapists may work at a table or on the floor, teach age-appropriate chores around the home, provide academic support at school, or accompany you to community outings in which difficult behavior occurs. |
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