ABA therapy

“The Function” of Behavior

“The Function” of Behavior

The phrase “function of (a) behavior” is quite common in the field of applied behavior analysis. As a behavior analyst, identifying the “function” of a person’s behavior is one of the most important aspects of the job. As a parent or caretaker, determining why a behavior occurs is critical to responding appropriately and getting the desired action/response from your child. Why is my child falling to the floor and screaming when I tell him we are having hamburgers for dinner? Why is my kiddo poking his brother in the backseat of the car even though I’m telling him to “STOP NOW!”? All behavior happens for a reason and finding out why is crucial for behavior change.

A strategy to increase positive behaviors and decrease challenges

A strategy to increase positive behaviors and decrease challenges

We are big fans of preventative, proactive strategies— it’s often easier to address challenging behaviors before they even happen. One of our favorite strategies is the Premack Principle, a tool developed by and named for psychologist David Premack.

What should I look for in an Early Intervention Program?

What should I look for in an Early Intervention Program?

Finding a high-quality early intervention program for your child with autism can be difficult waters to navigate. These recommendations, guided by the National Research Council and Rogers, Dawson, and Vismara (2012), can help guide you in determining if an early intervention program you are considering for your child with autism is a good fit. 

World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day

As today marks World Autism Awareness Day, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asserted the promise of the United Nations to "leave no one behind" in its commitment to full inclusion for individuals with autism. This year's observance at the UN Headquarters particularly highlights the importance of assistive technology for people with autism as a way to remove any barriers to full social, economic, and political participation in society and community.

Is ABA effective for adults?

Is ABA effective for adults?

Although Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is well-known for its effectiveness for children with autism, we know that interventions based in ABA can be helpful for individuals of all ages, with or without autism.  Although intervention looks different in young children versus older children and adults, the principles used remain the same.

Learning through Imitation

Learning through Imitation

Just by watching others, we can learn what to do. Imitation is a very powerful learning tool! When I see you perform an action, I am able to imitate the same action immediately or later when you are not there. Imitation is one way that we teach children without intentional teaching – children learn so much by copying others around them, whether it is picking up new language or how to navigate social interactions.

Navigating medical appointments: A prevention strategy

Navigating medical appointments: A prevention strategy

As behavior analysts, one of the first things we do when looking at challenging behavior is look to any medical causes and contributions for challenging behavior before intervening. We recommend our clients go to an appropriate medical professional for this. A lot of times, though, getting to and through a medical appointment can be a significant challenge for some children and adults.

1 in 59

1 in 59

In 2018 the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) released its update on the prevalence of autism in children nationally. Its new estimate: 1 in 59 children, with a startling 15% increase since its last estimate of 1 in 68 children two years prior. As we see an increase in rates of autism documented nationally, we need to ensure that we are providing appropriate individualized services and supports for those affected by autism.

The Power of Positive Reinforcement

The Power of Positive Reinforcement

When faced with challenging behaviors, a gut response sometimes is reprimanding, harsh or loud language, or other negative consequences. While this may seem effective in stopping challenging behavior in the short-term, research has shown that punishment consequence-based strategies often are ineffective in changing behavior in the long-term. What is recommended instead of punishment? Positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors!

Let’s Get Moving! Physical Activity & Behavior

Let’s Get Moving! Physical Activity & Behavior

Running, climbing, swinging – recess may seem like it’s meant for a fun break, but there’s an educational need to get children moving. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other disabilities, physical movement during recess is even more critical.