Improving the Lives of Children with Autism
ABA Therapy Services Across the United States
BlueSprig provides a range of ABA therapy services to children with autism across the United States. Our mission is simple: we are focused on changing the world for children with autism.
What is Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy?
The most notable behavioral intervention for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA is a therapy built around the process of behavior change using reinforcement strategies to both increase and decrease targeted behavior while working to improve socialization, communication, learning skills and other developmental milestones.
ABA has been shown to minimize the deficits associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and improve the quality of life of individuals with ASD and their family. With hundreds of peer-reviewed studies, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has become the standard of care for the early intervention treatment of ASD.
The “ABCs” of ABA
The key to understanding ABA and how we can reinforce and shape behavior is understanding the ABCs of ABA.
A – Antecedents: Antecedents are events that occur before a behavior.
B – Behavior: Behavior is an observable and measurable action. Behavior does not refer to challenging behavior only. For example, eating, yelling, and smiling are all behaviors.
C – Consequences: Consequences are events that follow a behavior. Consequences can be negative or positive.
Scenario
Let’s imagine an example scenario. Imagine there’s a little kid named Emma who really wants a cookie.
The antecedent is what happens before Emma’s behavior. (It’s like when you start feeling hungry because you smell something delicious baking in the oven.) Emma sees a jar of cookies on the kitchen counter. Maybe she even remembers having cookies before and how yummy they are.
The behavior is what Emma does because she wants a cookie. Emma might say, “Can I have a cookie, please?” She could also try to reach for the cookie jar or sneak a cookie when nobody is looking.
The consequences are the things that happen after Emma’s behavior. If Emma asks nicely, her parents might say, “Sure, you can have one cookie.” But if she tries to take a cookie without asking, her parent might say, “No, not right now.”
So, in simple words:
Before: Emma sees cookies and is hungry
During: She asks for a cookie or tries to grab one.
After: If she asks nicely, she might get one. If she takes it without asking, her parents might say no.
An ABA therapist working with Emma might implement strategies such as:
Teaching Communication Skills: If Emma tends to grab cookies or whine for them, the therapist would teach her more appropriate ways to ask for a cookie. For instance, they might teach her to say, “Cookie” This helps Emma learn that she can get what she wants by asking politely.
Positive Reinforcement: Emma would be encouraged and praised when she asks for a cookie politely or when she follows the established rules. Positive reinforcement might involve giving her a cookie when she asks nicely after dinner or offering praise and a small reward like stickers.
Using Visual Supports: Sometimes, visual aids like pictures or charts can be helpful for toddlers. The therapist might create a visual schedule that shows when cookies are allowed, making it easier for Emma to understand and follow the rules.
Redirecting Behavior: If Emma still tries to take a cookie without asking, the therapist might teach her parents how to redirect her behavior. For example, they could gently guide her back to the communication skill they’ve taught her, saying, “Remember, Emma, you can ask for a cookie nicely.”
The goal of ABA therapy in this scenario is to help Emma develop appropriate communication skills, self-control, and an understanding of rules and expectations, all while ensuring a positive and supportive environment for her. Over time, with consistent intervention and reinforcement, Emma should be better equipped to handle her desire for cookies.
Who Qualifies for ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy services are typically recommended for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). At BlueSprig, we work with children ranging from toddlers to 18 year olds, focusing on early intervention. Research indicates early intervention is critical for the overall success of your child. Learn more about our early intervention programs.
To determine eligibility, one of our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) will assess your child using a variety of assessments to evaluate skills and deficits.. Following this, they will be able to create a customized plan. Caregivers are a part of the treatment plan development, in working with the BCBA you will discuss your child’s and family’s needs, goals, hopes and dreams.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment
There is currently no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), however research shows that early intervention treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and improve functional skills in children with ASD. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Research Council, behavioral and communication interventions have been shown to be effective in the treatment of young children with ASD.
Taking the Next Steps
ABA Therapy is a safe and proven therapy that is developed and implemented by highly skilled and qualified staff at every BlueSprig family of companies location. Progress and results are continually being tracked, recorded and analyzed by the team, so any necessary changes can be made to ensure the best results are achieved for each child.