What Does A Day of ABA Therapy Look Like?
This is the question we get asked most! Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy for Autism goals vary from child to child, so a day of ABA Therapy and the length of treatment services also varies. At InBloom Autism Services, we believe meeting a child where he/she is currently performing is important. Then, we continuously move them forward until they perform skills at levels expected of peers of a similar age, as independently as possible. But before we dive into what a day of ABA Therapy might look like for your child, let’s explain how we get there.
First up, the Assessment
Following a diagnosis of autism and before beginning ABA therapy, an assessment should be conducted by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) who are trained professionals in the field. During the assessment, the BCBA will interact and observe your child to identify their needs. Setting expectations for the length of treatment services involves considering various variables, such as:
- Severity and types of behavior
- Types of goals the child is working on
- Skill deficits/challenges
- Environmental barriers
- Parent investment and training
- Child’s age
Based on these variables, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst can appropriately prescribe the amount of therapy hours your child needs. We dive into this more in our What is an ABA Assessment? blog.
Next Up, the Treatment Schedule
Now that your child has been assessed, the BCBA puts together an individualized treatment plan. While this daily schedule of ABA Therapy is created by the BCBA, it will be implemented by the child’s Registered Behavior Technician (RBT.) The RBT will be the main, one-to-one therapist working with the child daily as they teach and collect data on the child’s progress. The BCBA remains involved as they will collaborate with the RBT regularly to ensure that the treatment plan is working or if any modifications need to be made.
At InBloom Autism Services, we use block scheduling which helps ensure consistency for your child, similar to going to school! Our goal is to enhance expressive and receptive skills, communication, imitation, transitions, compliance, attention, daily living skills, and generalization as part of our individualized approach. Thanks to our center-based therapy, our RBTs and BCBAs can collaborate daily so that all the children we serve receive the best care possible. Here is an example of what a day of ABA Therapy looks like:
Remember, each ABA Therapy schedule is based on the individual child’s ABA assessment and treatment plan needs. To schedule your child’s ABA Assessment, fill out our contact form or call 888-754-0398.
How to Get the Most Out of ABA Therapy
Consistency is vital for your child’s success! Parents and caregivers should continue recommended interventions even when therapists are not around. It’s also important to minimize disruptions in daily ABA treatment schedules like avoiding long breaks from service or cancellations. Ensuring that your child attends at least 90% of their prescribed ABA therapy hours will help them reach their milestones and goals!
InBloom Autism Services specializes in early intervention ABA Therapy. Our Therapists undergo training to develop a curriculum specifically designed for children aged 5 and under with autism. Our Learning Centers also offer a safe and enjoyable environment for children to interact with their peers. Learn more about our ABA Therapy program!
Related Blogs:
The Positive Effects of ABA Therapy for Children with Autism
7 Questions to Ask ABA Therapy Providers to Find the Best Fit
DTT versus NET in ABA Therapy: What’s the Difference?