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Understanding ABA Therapy: What it is Today and How to Choose Wisely

  • Getting Started

When exploring support options for an autistic child, you’ll likely encounter Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). For many, ABA therapy has a complex history and can be a topic of strong opinions. It’s true that past practices in ABA sometimes used methods that are now widely seen as outdated and unhelpful.

Because of this history, and the fact that approaches can still vary significantly between providers, it’s incredibly important for parents today to understand what modern, ethical ABA practices look like and how to determine if a program is the right fit for their child.

Today’s ABA usually aims to be a positive, individualized, and child-centered approach, though not all centers operate in the same way. This means carefully assessing any program to ensure it aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.

What Exactly is Modern ABA Therapy?

At its core, Applied Behavior Analysis is a science dedicated to understanding how behavior works and how learning happens. It applies these principles to help individuals develop meaningful skills and reduce behaviors that might hinder their learning or safety.

For autistic children, modern ABA is typically:

  • Individualized: Programs are custom-designed for each child’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
  • Skill-Focused: It aims to teach new skills across various areas, such as communication (verbal and non-verbal), social interactions, daily living skills (like dressing or hygiene), play skills, and self-management.
  • Data-Driven: Therapists collect data to track progress and adjust strategies as needed, ensuring the approach is effective for the child.
  • Positive Reinforcement-Based: Learning is encouraged through positive reinforcement (rewards or motivators) to make desired behaviors and skills more likely to occur in the future. It’s important to understand, when done right, this is not about “training” a child to be someone they’re not or to mimic neurotypical behaviors without understanding. Instead, it’s about making desired, functional skills — like asking for a drink, playing with a peer, or expressing a need — genuinely rewarding and motivating for the child. The focus is on building positive connections and helping the child learn effective ways to navigate their world and communicate their needs.
  • Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Much of today’s ABA occurs in natural settings like play, daily routines, outside in nature or at a playground, making learning more relevant and easier to apply in real life. This approach prioritizes teaching skills in contexts where they’ll naturally be used, further moving away from rigid “training” to act certain ways.

Common Goals of ABA Therapy for Autistic Children:

ABA therapy can support a wide range of developmental areas, always tailored to the child’s specific needs:

  • Communication Skills: Helping children express their needs and wants, whether through spoken words, sign language, communication devices (AAC), or gestures.
  • Social Skills: Developing abilities to interact with others, share, take turns, understand social cues, and build friendships.
  • Daily Living Skills: Learning self-care routines like dressing, toileting, feeding, and personal hygiene, fostering greater independence.
  • Play and Leisure Skills: Encouraging engagement in play, exploring new interests, and participating in fun activities.
  • Reducing Challenging Behaviors: Understanding why a behavior might be occurring (e.g., communication frustration, sensory overload) and teaching alternative, more effective ways for the child to get their needs met.

Important Considerations for Parents: Trusting Your Gut

Given the varied history and practices within ABA, it’s incredibly important for parents to be informed and actively involved in the decision-making process. As you explore options for your child, some things to look at are:

  • Educate Yourself: Learn about modern, ethical ABA practices. Ask questions, read reputable resources, and understand the difference between outdated methods and current standards.
  • Visit Locations and Observe: If you’re considering a center, take the time to tour facilities. Pay close attention to the environment, how therapists interact with children, and the overall atmosphere. For example, is it joyful, engaging, and respectful?
  • Bring Your Child (If Appropriate): Your child’s reaction can provide invaluable insights. They may not be able to tell you in words, but observe their comfort level, how they respond to the space and the people, and any subtle cues. No one knows your child better than you do.
  • Trust Your Parental Intuition: You are the expert on your child. Combine factual information with what you know deep down about your child’s personality, preferences, and needs. Your “mama gut” or “papa gut” is a powerful tool in guiding decisions for their well-being. If something feels off, explore further or consider other options.
  • Ask About Collaboration: A good ABA provider should welcome and actively seek collaboration with other therapists (Speech, OT, PT) and integrate goals from various therapies for a holistic approach.

Making an Informed Choice for Your Child

Choosing the right support for your autistic child is a deeply personal decision. While ABA has evolved significantly and can be incredibly beneficial for many, it’s essential to ensure any therapy aligns with your child’s individual needs, promotes their well-being, and feels right for your family. By being informed, asking critical questions, and most importantly, trusting your profound understanding of your child, you can make choices that truly empower their growth and happiness.

Disclaimer: This blog post shares general information and personal perspectives on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. It is not intended to be medical, behavioral, or therapeutic advice, nor does it endorse any specific ABA provider. You should always consult with qualified healthcare professionals and thoroughly vet any potential therapy provider to find a program tailored to your child’s specific needs and your family’s values.

Next blog in this series: Beyond the Common Therapies: Understanding Myofunctional Therapy for Autistic Children