OUR LOCATIONS:Albuquerque, Omaha, St. Louis

NOW ENROLLING!!!

CALL US TOLL FREE!

844-743-6506

Blog Layout

The Benefits Of ABA Therapy for Autism

Autism Learning Collaborative

When your child gets diagnosed with Autism, it can be challenging to know where to turn for help. For some parents, ABA therapy is the answer. 


ABA therapy is a safe and beneficial, scientific-based therapy. Still, if you do not get a qualified therapist, you may worsen some targeted behaviors, or your child may develop new unwanted behaviors. Let us walk you through the benefits of ABA therapy for autism in children, and explain who benefits from ABA therapy. 


What Is ABA Therapy, and What Are Its Goals?


ABA therapy is a type of behavioral treatment that uses principles from applied behavior analysis to help individuals learn new skills, change their behaviors and improve their quality of life. ABA therapy can help with various disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and developmental disorders such as Down syndrome.


ABA therapy aims to teach children with Autism how to behave in socially appropriate ways to interact with others more easily. Through positive reinforcement, kids are taught what a parent expects in certain situations and are rewarded when they follow those expectations. This helps them understand social rules and boundaries while also giving them tools for future success.


The Benefits of ABA Therapy


ABA therapy offers a wide array of benefits for children with autism, addressing a wide range of behavioral and social challenges. From improving attention span to enhancing communication skills, ABA therapy benefits not just the child but also their families and communities. This evidence-based approach is tailored to meet individual needs, making it highly effective for diverse symptoms and behaviors associated with autism.


Whether you’re wondering who benefits from ABA therapy or specifically looking into the benefits of ABA therapy for autism, you’ll find that this therapeutic approach offers a comprehensive solution for holistic development, with benefits including:


  • Improved Attention Span


Children with Autism often have trouble paying attention and staying on task. They may also exhibit repetitive behaviors such as rocking or spinning, unusual sensitivities to touch or sounds, and odd food reactions.


ABA therapy can help children with Autism improve their focus by teaching them how to control their impulses and manage sensory input. This type of therapy improves academic performance, reduces self-injurious behavior, decreases anxiety levels, and increases social skills.


  • Improved Language and Communication Skills


You’re tired of always having to repeat yourself when talking to your child. They don’t understand what you want them to do, and they never seem interested in listening. 


With ABA therapy, children can communicate their thoughts and feelings through skill development activities such as picture exchange or symbols on a communication board.


ABA therapy helps improve language and communication skills while teaching practical life skills that can be applied outside the home or classroom setting.


  • Decreased Problem Behaviors


Your child with Autism is always getting into trouble, and you want to find a way to help them. 

ABA Therapy helps children with autism decrease problem behaviors by teaching them how to control their impulses and manage sensory input. It also improves academic performance, reduces self-injurious behavior, decreases anxiety levels, and increases social skills.


  • Improved Social Skills


Children with Autism often have trouble interacting with others and may exhibit antisocial behaviors. ABA therapy can help children with Autism learn how to interact more effectively with others by communicating better, cooperating with others, and understanding social cues.


  • Improved Independent Living Skills


You’re struggling to take care of yourself and live independently. You’ve tried using assistive devices and strategies, but they never seem to work for you. Imagine taking care of yourself and living alone with the help of ABA therapy.


This type of therapy will teach your child how to use assistive devices and strategies to be more independent effectively.


With the help of an ABA therapist, your child can learn how to cook, clean, shop, and more!


How to Find the Right ABA Therapist for Your Child

You want the best possible care for your child, so you’re considering ABA therapy as an option. But who should you choose? The right therapist will depend on many factors, including your child’s needs and where they live.


Start by asking yourself these questions about what you’re looking for from an ABA therapist:



  • What are my goals for my child?
  • How much does the cost play into this decision?
  • Who else gets involved in my child’s life?


Once you’ve answered these questions, it will be time to start looking for potential therapists. A straightforward way to find a therapist is to ask friends or family about their experiences with ABA therapists they may have used in the past. In addition, many online resources can help you track down someone locally, such as:


https://www.autismspeaks.org/directory


Once you’ve created a list of potential therapists, it’s essential to do some research and find out about their professional experience and credentials. This will help you narrow down your choices and find the right ABA therapist for your child.


If you still have questions about whether or not ABA Therapy is right for your child, please contact us. We’re here to help you navigate this stage of life.

From Parent to Practitioner

03 May, 2024
Being a parent of a neurodiverse child has its own set of challenges. Challenges that can be so unique that a practitioner may have to get creative with evidenced-based interventions. Being a parent of a neurodiverse child AND a practitioner is a completely different story. Especially 10-15 years ago. Let’s talk about this. Many years ago, I knew my then 2-year-old daughter was different. Whenever anyone asked me how she was different, I could never put my thoughts adequately into words. “She is just different.” The general response would be, “Well, she just NEEDS discipline. Spank her, put her in time out.” I had so many conflicting feelings about this. My instincts were screaming “THIS IS NOT RIGHT!” My brain was at battle with myself daily. I fought negative thoughts and comments from family telling me I was not a good mother or parent, and my child was unruly. At 2 years old, my daughter was engaging in screaming, kicking, biting, hair pulling, crying, scratching, punching and slapping behaviors during transitions from the home to the community. She did not prefer ANY change to routine, did not like various smells, lighting, and sounds. She struggled with social and play skills with peers and only wanted one person, ME, her “momma”. Getting the Diagnosis: Fast forward through years of struggles, heartache, trauma and being ostracized (not only myself but my child by family and peers), she got a diagnosis! After visiting numerous physicians (so many I lost count) and countless misdiagnoses, she was FINALLY diagnosed at the age of 10 years old with Asperger’s Syndrome. The uphill battle began with family, friends and her school district. During this entire time, I continued to hear what a terrible mother I was and witnessed my child being excluded from school functions by her peers and being bullied daily. Helping as a Parent: I accessed any resource I could to help her. There was not much to choose from. Most of the resources were for children with level 3 autism spectrum disorders or significant behavioral issues such as drug or alcohol dependency. Nothing, absolutely nothing, for a high functioning child with sensory and social skill needs. At that time, the only true resource we had available was an intensive parent training program and ABA services for my daughter. During this time, I saw her blossoming. It gave me hope. It inspired me to get into this field I so adore today. I say all of this NOT to discourage parents from seeking help. I share my story to reflect on how much this field has changed in 10+ years. Today, the resources are plentiful. Private and public ABA resources from schools to individual companies and government funded programs. ABA practices focusing on assent-based, trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions. Absolutely incredible the amount of assistance to help our children of all ages. Trust your Gut! As I reflect on these changes, I can’t help but wonder how all of these resources would have impacted my daughter and my other children like her not so long ago. My momma heart swells with pride thinking of how much she has overcome to get where she is today. For all the parents out there who may be listening to the “noise” of others, DON’T. Follow your instincts, seek the resources, advocate for your child. You got this! Lori Vitello, MA, BCBA, LBA Autism Learning Collaborative St. Louis In-Home Branch Assistant Clinical Director www.autismlearningcollaborative.com

Spring Break Fun for Families with Children with Autism

11 Mar, 2024
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Navigating Emotional Landscapes: Strategies for Parents to Support Each Other and Their Child with Autism

20 Feb, 2024
Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can evoke a complex tapestry of emotions, from confusion and concern to love and determination. As parents embark on this journey together, supporting each other becomes as crucial as supporting their child. This blog explores the emotional dynamics within families navigating an autism diagnosis, offering practical advice to foster resilience, communication, and a balanced approach to caregiving. Understanding the Emotional Impact The initial phase following a diagnosis can be overwhelming. Acknowledging your feelings and giving yourself permission to experience a wide range of emotions is a crucial first step. It's important to remember that feelings of grief, frustration, and even relief are normal as parents come to terms with their new reality. Communication is Key Open and honest communication between parents is foundational. Regular check-ins where each person can express their feelings, fears, and hopes without judgment can strengthen your partnership. Consider establishing a weekly 'heart-to-heart' session where you can discuss not just the challenges but also the victories, no matter how small. Supporting Each Other Supporting each other doesn't always mean having all the answers. Sometimes, it's about listening or simply being there. Develop a code word or signal for those moments when you're feeling overwhelmed and need a break or extra support. This can help maintain a supportive environment even in the midst of stress. Finding Balance Finding balance between caregiving, personal well-being, and your relationship can seem like a daunting task. It's essential to carve out time for self-care and each other, apart from your roles as parents. Engaging in individual hobbies or activities and scheduling regular date nights or activities as a couple can help maintain a strong bond. Practical Strategies for Caregiving Educate Yourselves Together: Learning about autism as a team can help align your understanding and approach to care. Websites like Autism Speaks (www.autismspeaks.org) offer comprehensive resources for families. Create a Support Network: Connecting with other families navigating similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice. Online forums and local support groups can be valuable resources. The Autism Society (www.autism-society.org) is a good starting point for finding community connections. Seek Professional Guidance: Sometimes, professional support is necessary to navigate the complexities of autism. Family therapy or counseling can provide strategies to strengthen your relationship and family dynamics. Apara Autism offers free consultations, you can schedule yours here. Focus on Strengths: Every child with autism has a unique set of strengths and abilities. Celebrate these strengths and incorporate them into daily activities and learning opportunities. Establish Routines: Children with autism often thrive on routine. Working together to establish and maintain consistent daily routines can benefit your child and reduce family stress. In Conclusion Navigating the emotional landscapes of autism requires patience, understanding, and teamwork. The journey is long, but together, you can navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys that come with raising a child with autism. By supporting each other, maintaining open communication, and taking care of your own well-being, you can build a strong foundation for your family and your child.
Behavior Management | ABA Behavior Management Principles

Basic Behavior Management Principles with Amberly

By Angela Pao-Johnson • 30 Jan, 2024
Learn the ABCs of behavior, the motivations of behavior, and how to manage problematic behavior with Amberly, a clinical director of an Autism therapy facility.
Valentine's Day Sensory Bins | Valentines Sensory Bins

Share the Love. It Just Makes Sens-ory! DIY Valentine's Sensory Bin

By Angela Pao-Johnson • 30 Jan, 2024
Create a fun Valentine's sensory bin or bottle for your child! Engage their senses with this easy, inexpensive DIY activity. Perfect for sensory-friendly fun.
How to Beat Summer Heat | Keeping Cool in Summer

5 Ways to Beat the Heat and Have Fun This Summer

By Angela Pao-Johnson • 26 Jan, 2024
Beat the summer heat with five fun family activities: homemade popsicles, indoor camping, a hula hoop hideout, glow-in-the-dark baths, and building ice castles.
Starting School Year with Autism | Child Smiling

Start The School Year Off Strong: A Guide For Parents

By Angela Pao-Johnson • 26 Jan, 2024
Discover effective strategies for a successful school year: building teacher relationships, understanding IEPs, and advocating for your child's education.
Autism Smart Technology | How Technology Can Help With Autism

How Smart Technology Can Help Your Child Living with Autism

By Angela Pao-Johnson • 26 Jan, 2024
Explore how smart technology enhances safety and independence for children with Autism through motion sensors, smart locks, and more.

Navigating the Autism Journey: Empowering Tips for New Parents

19 Jan, 2024
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

2024: Charting a Path for Success in ABA Therapy with Strategic Goal-Setting

07 Jan, 2024
As the calendar turns to January, we embrace the spirit of new beginnings. This is a time for reflection, planning, and setting goals, not just for ourselves but also for the special children in our lives undergoing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. The new year brings a unique opportunity for therapists, parents, and children to collaboratively set realistic and meaningful goals in ABA therapy. Understanding the Importance of Goal-Setting in ABA Therapy ABA therapy is centered around the individual needs of each child with autism. Goal-setting in this context is not just about achieving specific skills or behaviors; it’s about creating pathways for children to realize their potential and improve their quality of life. Well-defined goals provide direction for therapy sessions and a framework for measuring progress. Collaborative Goal-Setting: A Team Effort One of the strengths of ABA therapy is its collaborative nature. Therapists, parents, and sometimes, depending on their age and ability, the children themselves, should be involved in the goal-setting process. This collaboration ensures that goals are not only tailored to the child’s needs but are also aligned with family values and real-life situations. Strategies for Identifying Goals Assessing the Child’s Current Abilities: Start by understanding the child’s strengths and areas where they need support. This can involve direct assessment by the therapist and input from parents and educators. Setting SMART Goals: Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, improving two-way communication skills over three months is a SMART goal. Prioritizing Goals: Not all goals are created equal. Some skills might be foundational and need to be achieved before others. Prioritize goals based on their impact on the child’s daily life and overall development. Measuring Progress Regular assessments and observations are crucial in tracking progress. Celebrating milestones, no matter how small, is important. Progress in ABA therapy is not always linear, and every small step forward is a victory. Tips for Parents Be Consistent: Try to reinforce the goals set in therapy at home. Consistency is key in ABA therapy. Stay Informed and Involved: Regular communication with the therapist can provide insights into how best to support your child’s goals at home. Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements, however small they may seem. This encourages them and shows them the value of their efforts. Conclusion The new year is a time for new goals and fresh starts. In ABA therapy, setting achievable goals is essential for the continued progress of children with autism. By working together, therapists and parents can create a supportive and effective environment for these children to thrive in 2023 and beyond. Let’s use this opportunity to reflect on past achievements and chart a course for a year filled with growth and learning.
More Posts
Share by: