 As
parents of children with autism, LA FEAT has compiled the
following information to aid families in selecting an ABA program
for their child. We believe that ABA programs should have the
following components:Intensity
Analysis of recent studies shows that there is a correlation
between the number of hours of intervention and the outcome of the
therapy. Programs that are more intensive in hours produce better
and longer lasting results. Research indicates that 40 hours per
week is appropriate for the majority of young autistic children.
An ABA provider should make recommendations for hours based on
research and the child’s needs, not what the school district or
regional center is willing to fund.
Learning in a 1:1 environment
Because many young autistic children lack the social and
communication skills necessary to be successful in a group
environment, the ABA provider often will begin teaching skills in
a one-on-one setting, typically in the home. After the skills are
learned in that setting, they are generalized to other settings,
such as school and the community.
Program addresses all developmental domains
An effective program will address all aspects of the child’s
disability. Deficits in communication, attention, social, play,
gross motor, fine motor, self-help, cognitive and academic skills,
and behavioral challenges are targeted in the child’s
individualized curriculum. Targets for each area should be
developed based on the child’s individual strengths and deficits
in each area.
Emphasis on generalizing skills
Generalization means that the child can perform a particular skill
in any environment, with any person, objects or instructions. A
quality ABA program has a systematic, continuous plan for
generalizing skills learned in the therapy room.
Quality supervision
Supervisors should meet regularly with the parents and aides
regularly to discuss the child’s progress, identify new areas of
strength and weakness, and adjust the program curriculum.
Supervisors should have experience and education in ABA and should
work with either a PhD level psychologist or Board Certified ABA
Therapist in developing the child’s program.
Data analysis
ABA is a data-driven treatment. The program should regularly
record, review and analyze data related to the child’s progress in
the program. The results of this analysis should be used to
develop an individualized curriculum and behavioral strategies for
the child.
Goal is independence in a typical setting
In a quality program, the goal is to increase the skill levels of
the child to the extent that the program is no longer required in
order to maintain success in a typical setting. While this is not
a goal that can be realized by all autistic children, the ABA
provider should be building skills to achieve independence to the
maximum extent possible.
LA FEAT is familiar with ABA providers in the Los Angeles area,
and we can help you find a provider that will provide an
intensive, research-based program. Please see our
list of Local Providers. |
