Six Things Parents Of A Child With Autism Should Know
Parents with children who require treatment for autism should know some basic things about ABA therapy. That's because ABA therapy is among one of the most common treatment options for autism.
The following are six things parents of a child with autism should know.
ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis
One of the most basic things to know about ABA therapy is that ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. This type of therapy is designed to address issues with communication and social skills that an autistic child might have. It's also designed to develop an autistic child's learning skills.
ABA therapy is readily adaptable to the needs of each child
When a therapist gives ABA therapy to an autistic child, that child will undergo a consultation and assessment. After this, a therapy plan will be adapted to the child's particular needs. Then, the therapist will monitor progress and continually adapt the therapy plan over time to ensure maximum effectiveness.
ABA therapy focuses on using positive reinforcement to help treat children with autism
Therapists use positive reinforcement to encourage productive behavioral changes when providing ABA therapy. Patients are rewarded for the progress they make regarding their social and learning skills.
Although changes are typically gradual, ABA therapy is a proven strategy for making significant positive changes to behavior over time in autistic children.
ABA therapy can be adapted for autistic children of all ages
There are various types of ABA therapy available. The type of therapy used depends largely on the age of the child so that ABA therapy can be adapted to children of all ages.
For younger children, a form of ABA therapy known as Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention is typically used. For older children, commonly used therapy types including pivotal response training, verbal behavior interventions, and discrete trial training.
Some ABA therapy providers will offer treatment to autistic children at home
Some autistic children don't like to leave their home for therapy and other types of treatment. One great thing about ABA therapy is that many therapists recognize this tendency, and in response, offer home treatment. ABA therapy at home can ensure that a child is relaxed and comfortable during therapy.
Health insurance will often cover ABA therapy costs
Because ABA therapy is one of the most common and accepted forms of autism treatment, it is generally covered at least in part under most health insurance plans. This means that you shouldn't have to pay all the costs of ABA therapy out of pocket to have your child treated for autism.
For more info about ABA therapy, reach out to a local autism therapist.