Is ABA Therapy Harmful?

ABA therapy controversy stems from the early days of ABA within a therapeutic context. Much like other allied fields, such as medicine and psychology, the history of ABA is plagued by historical accounts of harmful practices. However, unlike allied fields, the dark history of harmful practices is not buried in as many years of helpful practices. In fact, many adults who received ABA therapy in their childhood have come forward sharing their experiences – and many report that ABA therapy was a traumatic experience. This means that the harms associated with ABA are alive and real. ABA therapy has become the most popular treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as it is known as the gold-star treatment for ASD recommended by primary care physicians and funded by insurance companies in all 50 states of the U.S.A. ABA is a learning-based therapy that works by explicitly teaching skills that will enhance quality of life including communication, social, and independent living skills. ABA also aims to reduce behaviors that interfere with learning or that reduce quality of life by posing risk or danger to the person themselves or those around them. For many young children diagnosed with autism, ABA therapy is the first-line treatment recommended. Modern-day ABA practices are centered around compassion and acceptance! As a parent of an autistic child, it is important to be aware of the differences between high-quality and low-quality ABA. Harmful ABA practices can be prevented with the right knowledge and resources. For example, knowing when emphasis on use of punishment-based strategies and focus on compliance/obedience may negatively affect the client’s behaviors and relationship with therapy. The lists below are not exhaustive but shed light on some of the critical indicators to distinguish between quality of providers. Low-quality ABA red flags include: - Heavy emphasis on punishment, including reprimands, time-out, or other harsh consequences. - Emphasis on goals targeting obedience or compliance. - Lack of concern for signs of emotional distress (e.g., seeming unhappy during therapy sessions, seeming to not enjoy going to ABA therapy). - Lack of communication and collaboration with family/caregivers. - Disregard for client’s unique interests or behaviors. High-quality ABA green flags include: - Emphasis on positive reinforcement (e.g., rewards, praise, fun activities) - Experiencing overall joy during therapy sessions. - Collaboration with family/caregivers in determining treatment goals and deciding on therapy structure and overall strategies to be used. - Respect for autonomy and preferences by incorporating choices into therapy and honoring unique interests. Recognizing the distinctions between helpful and harmful ABA practices is important, as low-quality ABA providers unfortunately do exist. However, noticing these flags will help you navigate ABA services and hopefully increase your confidence that your child is receiving effective ABA practices. Proper care and treatment can lead to meaningful skill growth and increased quality of life!

How Do We Stand Out?

At Encore, we're committed to providing a compassionate and meaningful ABA therapy experience. Our expert team creates a personalized therapeutic environment focused on achieving real, positive outcomes for your child. We blend our deep expertise with a caring approach, ensuring each session is both effective and engaging. By working closely with you, we create a supportive partnership that extends beyond the therapy room, driving meaningful progress in your child's development. With Encore, you can feel confident that your child is receiving high-quality care tailored to their unique needs. Have more questions or want to learn more about how Encore can unleash your child’s potential through ABA therapy? Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

What are the Benefits of ABA Therapy?

We understand that navigating the world of autism treatments can be overwhelming, and we're here to help. In this blog, we'll explore a few benefits of ABA therapy and how it can positively impact your child's development and your family's life.

Why is ABA Therapy Important?

ABA therapy is important because it provides individualized, evidence-based approach to improving life skills and reducing maladaptive behaviors. By focusing on areas such as communication, social skills, and daily living skills, ABA therapy helps individuals increase their independence and enhance their quality of life so they can navigate the world more effectively.

ABA Therapy Benefits

1. Partner in Care: Parents gain confidence and become empowered advocates for their child's growth through ABA therapy. As active participants in the treatment process, you'll work hand-in-hand with skilled therapists, learning valuable strategies to support your child's development. This collaborative approach ensures progress is consistently demonstrated across all settings. As you become more adept at implementing behavior strategies, you'll witness your child's progress firsthand and strengthen your relationship in the process. 2. Personalized Outcomes: Every child is unique, and ABA therapy embraces this individuality with open arms. Your child's journey is crafted with care, tailored to their specific needs and aspirations. Through comprehensive assessments and your invaluable input, therapists create a dynamic treatment plan that evolves with your child. This personalized approach targets key areas such as communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors, ensuring that each session is meaningful and impactful. As your child grows and develops, their goals are continually reassessed and adjusted, paving the way for continuous progress and achievement. 3. Social Significance: ABA therapy goes beyond the therapy room, aiming to enhance your child's quality of life in meaningful ways. By focusing on socially significant behaviors, this approach helps your child build the skills needed for greater independence and successful integration into various environments. From improving peer interactions to enhancing participation in family and community activities, ABA therapy addresses behaviors that truly matter to you, your child, and your community. This focus on real-world applications helps your child build confidence, form lasting relationships, and increase independence. 4. Generalizable: The skills your child learns through ABA therapy are designed to open doors to new possibilities across all aspects of life. By emphasizing generalization, therapists ensure that the behaviors learned during sessions can be applied in various settings and situations. As you reinforce these skills at home, you'll see your child's newfound skills flourish in school, social settings, and beyond. This focus on foundational, adaptable skills sets the stage for lifelong learning and success. The benefits of ABA extend far beyond the borders of therapy sessions, making a positive impact within many aspects of your child's life and your family's journey. At Encore, we lead the industry in delivering compassionate, personalized ABA therapy that truly enhances our patients' quality of life. Our dedicated team partners with you to determine meaningful goals, harnessing your child's strengths, preferences, and unique abilities to create a valuable therapeutic experience. We understand that each child's path is unique, and we're committed to walking alongside you every step of the way.

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When to Stop ABA Therapy

In general, it is an appropriate time to stop ABA when:

1. Everyday routines and activities can be completed without struggle or distress

2. Therapy is no longer producing notable progress

3. The autistic child or adult is not experiencing joy or happiness during ABA therapy

4. The autistic person is entering adulthood and will benefit from other supports such as vocational training, social groups, or assisted living programs.

When to stop ABA therapy may be decided by the ABA board certified behavior analyst, by the parents or caretakers of the autistic person, or by the autistic person themselves. The decision to stop ABA therapy can be exciting and celebratory! It can also be difficult. Stopping ABA requires careful consideration, because while it is possible to re-enroll in ABA therapy after stopping, it can be more difficult to access ABA therapy when individuals are older in age (due to insurance age-caps).

How long does ABA therapy last?

How long ABA therapy lasts will be different for each person. For example, some people may benefit from short-term ABA therapy while others may require long-term ABA therapy. In general, those with more severe behaviors and very limited skills will require longer courses of therapy. Additionally, those who respond very positively to ABA therapy by learning skills quickly and showing rapid improvement in problem behaviors will likely have shorter-term ABA therapy as compared to those who require more time to learn and shower slower behavior improvement. One to five years of therapy may be considered shorter-term – and six years and over longer-term.

How many years of ABA therapy is needed?

The number of years needed of ABA therapy with vary from person to person. A few factors that may impact the number of years needed include:

- Age at the start of therapy. Those who begin ABA therapy at earlier ages (5 and under) tend to show quicker improvement, which can shorten the total years of ABA therapy needed. However, this does not mean that those who begin after age 5 will necessarily always require more years of ABA as compared to those who begin before age 5.

- Severity of behaviors and skill limits. Typically, more years of ABA therapy are needed when behaviors are more severe, and skills are more limited. There are always exceptions, though, and the exact number of years needed will vary from person to person.

- Quality of life. Those with more severely impacted quality of life will benefit from more years of ABA therapy. As the overall goal of ABA therapy is to improve quality of life, those who struggle more with having a high quality of life because of an autism diagnosis will benefit from more years of ABA therapy and support.

Concluding ABA therapy is a significant decision that should be approached with careful consideration and optimism. This transition marks an important milestone in an autistic person's journey, reflecting their progress and readiness for new challenges. By recognizing the signs that indicate it's time to reduce or stop ABA therapy, we can ensure that individuals receive the most appropriate support for their current needs and goals. Remember, ending ABA therapy isn't just about concluding a treatment; it's about embracing new opportunities for growth, independence, and a fulfilling life tailored to the individual's unique strengths and aspirations.

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RBT Certification: What You Need to Know

Therapy Without Borders

As an RBT, you'll work in diverse settings such as clinics, schools, and clients' homes, each offering unique opportunities to tailor interventions and adapt your skills. This variety not only keeps your work engaging but also maximizes the effectiveness of ABA therapy by ensuring that the skills clients learn are practical and applicable across different aspects of their lives. By witnessing the results of your efforts in multiple environments, you'll experience firsthand how this comprehensive approach creates lasting, meaningful change.

Client-Focused Approach

The key to continual client progress lies in leveraging each client's unique preferences and strengths to maximize their progress. This client-centered approach involves continuously updating knowledge of clients' preferences and strengths, allowing for the creation of personalized interventions that evolve with them. By incorporating favorite activities or topics into therapy sessions, learning becomes more engaging and effective. This adaptive strategy helps boost clients' confidence and encourages them to tackle new challenges. RBTs take ownership of their clients' progress by staying updated on changing preferences and strengths, demonstrating an important component of client-centered ABA therapy and delivering impactful, meaningful interventions that promote overall well-being.

Collaborative Partner in Care

As an RBT, you'll work closely with clients while collaborating with a clinical supervisor, typically a BCBA. While your supervisor guides treatment plans, your hands-on role is crucial. You'll implement interventions, collect data, and provide insights from daily client interactions. This teamwork approach allows you to contribute significantly to refining strategies and achieving positive outcomes. Your observations and implementation of therapy techniques are invaluable, directly informing treatment decisions and ensuring high-quality care. In this dynamic role, you're an essential player in actively shaping the success of each client's journey.

Data Driven Decisions

Collecting data and creating practice opportunities are central to an RBT's role, as the information gathered directly shapes the direction of therapy. Timely and accurate data collection equips BCBAs with the insights needed to make informed treatment decisions. Each session is a chance to implement these plans and offer clients numerous opportunities to practice skills. By observing how clients respond in real-time, RBTs can adjust strategies to respond to the individual needs, ensuring that therapy is both effective and engaging. This process allows RBTs to witness the direct impact of their work, making the role not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding as they see clients achieve milestones and gain new skills.

Building Relationships and Fostering Growth

Trust and connections form the bedrock of effective ABA therapy. Building strong relationships with clients and families goes beyond implementing behavior plans - it's about becoming a reliable, supportive presence. As you work with clients, you'll develop an eye for subtle changes others might miss, providing valuable insights to the treatment team. Your compassion and commitment create a safe environment where clients feel empowered to push boundaries and try new things. There will be challenges, but your patience can turn these into breakthroughs. The bonds you form and the progress you witness make this job incredibly rewarding. When a child master’s a new skill or a parent shares a success story, you'll know you're making a real difference. This compassionate approach to fostering growth is the heart of being an RBT. Your journey as an RBT is more than just a job - it's a chance to make a real difference in people's lives. Sure, you'll start with certification, but that's just the beginning. You'll keep growing through yearly recertifications, extra training, and maybe even moving up to become a BCBA someday. But the real magic happens in your day-to-day work. Whether you're in a clinic, school, or someone's home, you'll face new challenges and victories that'll keep you on your toes. You'll learn to think on your feet, connect with all kinds of people, and solve problems creatively. And let's be honest, some days will be difficult. But when you see a child make progress or a family's relief at a breakthrough, you'll know why you chose this path. If you're passionate about helping others and want a career that's always evolving, becoming an RBT could be your calling. It's not just about the skills you'll gain - it's about the lives you'll touch along the way.

How Do We Stand out?

At Encore, we're dedicated to creating a supportive and enriching environment for ABA therapists. Our expert team provides comprehensive guidance and resources, ensuring you have everything you need to deliver effective and engaging therapy sessions. We combine evidence-based practices with a compassionate approach, empowering you to achieve measurable, positive outcomes for your clients. By working closely with you, we create a collaborative partnership that enhances your professional growth and effectiveness. At Encore, you'll have the opportunity to apply your skills in a dynamic setting, tailoring your approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Our supportive structure allows you to focus on what matters most - making a meaningful difference in your clients' lives. Interested in joining our team or want to learn more about how Encore can support your professional development? Apply now to explore the opportunities we offer and discover how you can thrive in your career with us.

Therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Types of Therapy for Autism

Autism therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all—there are many approaches designed to meet individual needs, whether the focus is on improving communication, enhancing social skills, or building independence. Let's explore the most common types of therapy for autism.

Behavioral Therapies (Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA)

Learning-based therapy that focuses on communication, social, and adaptive skills through structured activities or natural play. ABA also focuses on reducing dangerous/harmful or interfering behaviors. ABA therapy is more time-consuming as compared to other available therapies; however, it is shown to vastly improve autism symptoms and is the gold-standard autism treatment.

Speech Therapy

Communication-based therapy that focuses on improving verbal skills, such as spoken language, sign language, or use of augmentative communication devices. Speech therapy also focuses on improving social communication skills, such as understanding social expressions, phrases, and norms.

Occupational therapy

Focuses on improving strength and coordination needed to complete a variety of daily living tasks, such as fine or gross motor skills involved in dressing, tooth brushing, or cooking.

Physical therapy

Similar to occupational therapy, physical therapy also works to improve coordination and strength. Different from occupational therapy, physical therapy may focus more on addressing delayed milestones such as crawling or walking,

Social Skills Groups

Focused on facilitating social interactions and creating opportunities to practice social skills in social groups with peers.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Talk-based therapy that focuses on supporting individuals who experience difficulty managing stress, anxiety, emotional regulation, or problem-solving.

Sensory Integration Therapy

Specifically addresses sensory processing. Sensory integration therapy utilizes a variety of techniques, including vestibular (swinging or spinning), tactile (playing with textured materials), and auditory/visual (music/sounds, visual patterns) techniques.

Pharmacological Intervention

May include prescription medication to manage more intense autism symptoms. May also include over the counter medication to manage autism-related disturbances such as gastrointestinal issues or problems sleeping.

Autism Therapies for Adults

Autistic adults often face increased difficulty accessing therapies, as many health insurance funders have age-caps on autism therapies and treatments. As autistic individuals enter adulthood, priority commonly becomes residential placement (such as living independently or in a group home); vocational preparation (such as job coaching or internship); and overall independence. The same therapies listed above may be appropriate for adults with autism, depending on their overall needs. Overall, the earlier autism treatments and therapies are accessed, the greater progress is likely to be achieved. Participating in therapies early on in life supports preparing the individual for adulthood, however each individual is unique. And while some individuals may benefit from short-term participation in therapy, others may benefit from longer-term participation. Similarly, not all autistic individuals will respond the same to the various therapy options. For example, some may benefit greatly from medication and ABA while others may benefit from speech and occupational therapies. Deciding which therapies and treatments are most appropriate requires individualized consideration of the person’s unique needs. Consulting with primary care providers and educators can be helpful in identifying the most appropriate autism treatments for the unique individual.

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Is ABA Therapy Effective?

To truly understand what makes ABA effective, it's important to know the key characteristics of what makes treatment successful. These are aspects you can observe and influence in your child's therapy, putting the power of ABA's effectiveness in your hands.

1. Proper Placement of Services.

Your healthcare provider (such as a psychologist, pediatrician, psychiatrist, or diagnostician) will determine if ABA is appropriate for treating your child's diagnosis specific symptoms. If you haven't received a referral for ABA services yet, speak to your child's primary care physician about whether ABA therapy might be a good fit. Getting referred to the right care sources is the first step in achieving effective outcomes.

2. Identification of meaningful goals.

Working with your BCBA to set meaningful long- and short-term goals is crucial for promoting clinical progress. By focusing on skills that are important in your child's daily life, we increase the likelihood of promoting independence and achieving meaningful behavioral changes.

3. Teaching Functional Alternatives.

Your BCBA is responsible for identifying functional replacement behaviors. They will conduct a combination of interviews, observations, and assessments to understand the purpose of challenging behaviors before suggesting an appropriate alternative response. ABA doesn’t aim to change your child's personality, instead we want to equip them with the skillsets to express their desires and needs in an effective and socially appropriate way.

4. Showing up for sessions.

Your BCBA prescribes ABA service hours based on their clinical assessment. The number of hours depends on your child's goals and the level of support needed to achieve them. It's the responsibility of the entire team, including you and your child, to ensure consistent attendance at scheduled sessions to work towards these goals. This is similar to a doctor prescribing medication. Just as skipping doses can lead to persistent or worsening symptoms, inconsistent therapy attendance may slow progress.

4. Practice makes progress.

Consistent attendance should be paired with regular implementation of teaching strategies and practice opportunities. Providing plenty of opportunities for your child to practice new skills, both during and outside therapy sessions, helps strengthen their abilities. As a parent, incorporating therapy techniques into your daily routines can reinforce desired behaviors and extend the benefits of ABA beyond the therapy sessions.

6. Parent Participation.

ABA therapy begins with the child and therapist, but its true effectiveness requires parental involvement. That is, parents’ willingness to adopt the strategies, create learning opportunities, and provide appropriate reinforcement. This is crucial because without consistency across all settings, we often see disproportionate progress in clinical outcomes between therapy sessions and everyday life. Your active participation can make a significant difference in your child's progress and the overall outcomes.

7. Collaboration.

Building on the concept of parent participation, ABA therapists collaborate with everyone involved in your child's care. This ensures consistent results across all environments your child interacts with, including schools, other service providers, and family members. Collaboration is especially crucial for children taking medications for co-occurring conditions. Potential side effects may impact therapy engagement and overall progress, making a coordinated approach even more important.

8. Generalization.

Generalization is an integral part of ABA treatment, typically implemented after a patient has successfully demonstrated a skill during intervention. However, it's beneficial to practice newly learned skills in various natural settings with other important people even before the skill is fully mastered. Parents can apply therapy strategies in daily life, promoting faster skill acquisition and learning across different environments. Monitoring these eight key aspects will help you play an active role in maximizing the effectiveness of your child's ABA therapy. Regular check-ins with your ABA provider can help you track progress and ensure that your child is receiving the most benefit from their treatment throughout their therapeutic journey.

How Do We Stand Out?

At Encore, we're committed to providing a compassionate and meaningful ABA therapy experience. Our expert team creates a personalized therapeutic environment focused on achieving real, positive outcomes for your child. We blend our deep expertise with a caring approach, ensuring each session is both effective and engaging. By working closely with you, we create a supportive partnership that extends beyond the therapy room, driving meaningful progress in your child's development. With Encore, you can feel confident that your child is receiving high-quality care tailored to their unique needs. Have more questions or want to learn more about how Encore can help your child thrive with ABA therapy? Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

How to Become an ABA Therapist

You might be surprised to discover that the education requirements to become an ABA therapist include a high school diploma and a 40-hour training course. Many ABA therapy centers offer this training when you are hired for a position. Additionally, there are online training programs available that you can complete even if you aren't already employed in the field.

How long does it take to become an ABA therapist?

The process of becoming an ABA therapist is relatively efficient. The 40-hour required training is typically completed within one to two weeks, depending on the schedule. Following the training, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst conducts a competency assessment, which you then submit to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board for review. Upon approval, you become eligible to take the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) exam. Successful completion of the RBT exam grants board certification to practice as an ABA therapist. Some ABA therapy centers permit new hires to begin providing therapy before taking the exam, with the expectation that it will be completed and passed within a specified timeframe after starting the role. You’re certified, now what? As an ABA therapist, you work under the guidance of a clinical supervisor, who is a board certified behavior analyst or assistant. Your responsibilities include working with students of various ages, primarily those diagnosed with autism or related disabilities. The primary objective is to provide therapeutic support that enhances the client's quality of life. Therapy sessions typically focus on developing new skills, such as communication and social interaction, as well as improving behaviors that cause distress or impede learning. The clinical supervisor determines the specific skills and behaviors addressed during therapy sessions, providing you with direction and support in your role. Embarking on a career as an ABA therapist offers a unique blend of personal fulfillment and professional opportunity. With relatively accessible entry requirements, a streamlined certification process, and the potential for immediate hands-on experience, this field provides a swift path to a meaningful career. As an ABA therapist, you'll have the chance to make a difference in people's lives, working in diverse settings and enjoying the flexibility to tailor your work to your preferences. The support of experienced supervisors and the opportunity for continued growth in the field of applied behavior analysis make this an attractive option for those seeking a rewarding and dynamic career path. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a career change, becoming an ABA therapist could be your gateway to a fulfilling profession that combines compassion with practical skills, all while meeting a critical need today.

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What is ABA Treatment?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based approach that uses behavioral learning principles to teach new skills, increase desired behaviors, and reduce challenging behaviors in individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. In a nutshell, ABA therapy aims to improve the quality of life for people who receive it. ABA therapists take an individualized approach to carefully assess the patient’s needs, identify meaningful goals, and create an effective treatment plan. While the most common diagnosis ABA therapy treats is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ABA has shown to be effective for a wide array of symptoms within other diagnoses. This includes ADHD, anxiety, and OCD to name a few.

What is ABA treatment for autism?

ABA therapy targets social, communication, and adaptive learning skills typically challenging for individuals with autism. However, its evidence-based strategies have also shown to support many other areas of a person’s life including executive functioning, academic, vocational, and beyond. ABA therapy doesn’t “cure” any diagnosis. It also doesn’t aim to remove any personality characteristic of what makes a person unique. Instead, we strive to shape desired behaviors to help them navigate their own lives independently and, more importantly, improve their quality of life. While doing this, we may alter the presence of symptoms associated with a person’s diagnosis.

Are patients satisfied with ABA services?

Although this answer will vary by patient, patient satisfaction often goes together with positive treatment outcomes and a good therapeutic experience. This starts with establishing a healthy relationship between the therapists and patients’ family. Satisfied patients are typically serviced by ABA therapists who leverage client’s preferences, strengths, and existing skill sets to meet them where they are. Additionally, the therapy team adapts treatment based on what's socially significant to the patient and their family.

Is ABA therapy safe?

ABA therapy focuses on using the simplest, most effective methods to achieve meaningful results. Practitioners will always prioritize a patient’s existing skill set and select familiar or least restrictive strategies before introducing a more complex intervention. Furthermore, practitioners keep families informed about proposed strategies and their potential risks, seeking input and approval before implementation.

Is ABA therapy effective?

Although the research points to ABA being effective, it is not the strategies alone that creates the change. It’s the environment, especially one that supports positive change consistently. It is a team effort, with the client and parent being the leaders in this dynamic. If there are any two you should walk away with today, take these 2:

Teaching Functional Alternatives

When reducing problem behaviors, practitioners also teach appropriate replacement behaviors. For example, a child engages in excessive screaming to get parents attention. We’ll aim to reduce the screaming. However, the need to access the parent’s attention will still be there. So, we simultaneously teach them appropriate skill sets to gain parent’s attention, for example “asking for mom” therefore still giving them access to their desires but in a socially acceptable way. As humans, we all have desires and needs. ABA therapy doesn’t aim to change those desires or needs but instead shape appropriate behaviors to attain those desires and needs.

Practical Application into Real Life

Another key element is “generalization”. This is simply defined by how the learned skills are demonstrated in different environments with different individuals. We don’t want to see our patients flawlessly demonstrating an essential skill only in the presence of a therapist but not with the parent, at home, or in school. Generalization is a phase that is embedded in ABA therapy. This is achieved through collaboration and training with parents and/or other members that are involved in the patient’s life to ensure the patient will demonstrate learned skills in various naturally occurring contexts.

How do I know if ABA is the right option for my child?

If your child has been recommended for ABA services by a diagnosing physician, then they are likely a qualified candidate. Although there are other therapy options out there on the market for IDD supports, ABA has an abundance of evidence to support its effectiveness in shaping new behaviors and reducing undesired ones. If a referral was not prescribed and you’re wondering whether ABA therapy might help your child, consult with their doctor to discuss if it's a suitable option.

What should I look for in an ABA provider or agency?

In an agency, you should look for compassionate and knowledgeable providers who will partner with you through the therapeutic journey. From behavior technicians to administrators to board-certified behavior analysts, , each team member should be committed to guiding you and your family through a supportive and collaborative journey. Your chosen provider should have the technical skills to implement ABA strategies and the soft skills to nurture a healthy therapeutic relationship, creating a safe space to encourage engaging therapy sessions and positive learning experiences.

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How do I decide between a special education school setting and a mainstream setting for my child?

At first thought, parents might prefer to send their child with special needs to a mainstream school where the child can maintain his social network (including friends and relatives), and enjoy all the advantages of a large school. For many parents, the thought of sending their child to a school where everyone has something “wrong” with them is hard to accept. “My son’s problems are not that bad, why should he be in a school with children whose disabilities are more severe?” a parent may think. On the other hand, in a special education setting your child is more likely to get highly specialized instruction that is tailored to his/her needs. The smaller class sizes and teaching strategies designed to accommodate your child would help him succeed academically and even socially. To begin, you must stand back and take a long, hard look at your child’s current skills and deficits, as calmly and objectively as possible. As your child’s best advocate, you need to be fully informed of his needs and strengths, in order to determine what setting and supports will best meet his needs. In general, the process of mainstreaming should begin when the following 2 conditions are met: (1) Your child has developed the skills necessary to be able to learn and function successfully in a mainstream classroom, and (2) Behavior that is disruptive to the environment, competes with learning, or is socially stigmatizing is under control. Mainstreaming is not likely to be a positive, successful experience unless these conditions are met. Any child can be placed in a mainstream classroom; you want to be sure the experience will be productive, meaningful, and successful. It is not enough for your child to be able to sit appropriately in a classroom; you must ensure he can learn and make progress in all areas, to be successful now and in the future. Here are some questions to consider before choosing a mainstream placement:

What is your child’s current level of self-esteem and self-confidence? Would your child be comfortable if he were towards the bottom of the class in a mainstream setting, or would he benefit from being on equal footing with his peers in a special education setting? In mainstream schools, children feel stigmatized when pulled out of class for extra help. They may feel discouraged and lose self-confidence when they trail behind their classmates. Spending time in a special education setting where they are more likely to experience success may outweigh the social benefits of being in a mainstream setting.
Is the level of support and supervision available in the mainstream environment adequate for your child’s needs? If not, are there outside resources you can tap into to help support your child?
Does your child engage in inappropriate behaviors that will be socially stigmatizing to him/her? Children with special needs are already at higher risk of being teased and bullied, and if your child does not behave and interact appropriately with other children this can be extremely detrimental to his social emotional development.
Can your child understand and respond well to group contingencies (e.g., when students earn privileges based on group behavior)? If he needs a more individualized motivational system, can it be easily and consistently implemented in the mainstream classroom?
What are the school’s academic, social and behavioral expectations of students your child’s age? Is your child at or near the expected level in each of those areas? If not, are the supports needed to help your child in his specific area of need in place?

Prerequisite skills: The following are basic prerequisite skills a child needs in order to succeed in a mainstream class. They don’t all need to be mastered skills that your child displays with 100% accuracy; but they do need to be present at some appropriate level, with supports that can be implemented consistently.

Follows classroom routines
Learns new targets during group instruction
Takes turns during activities
Waits quietly
Completes assignments independently
Maintains near-zero levels of inappropriate behavior across environments
Keeps his possessions organized
Is at or near grade level in academic skills

Next week, we’ll explore some tips should you decide that mainstream is the appropriate route for your child. Need help with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in New York, Michigan, or New Jersey? Contact us today! References: Johnson, S., Meyer, L.S., & Taylor, B.A. (1996). Supported inclusion. In C. Maurice, G. Green, & S. Luce (Eds.), Behavioral intervention for young children with autism: A manual for parents and professionals. Austin, TX: PRO-ED. Newman, B., Reinecke, D. R., & Hammond, T. (2005). BehaviorAsk: Straight answers to your ABA programming questions. Dove and Orca Publishers.

How do I train my child to accept “No” for answer?

Most children have a hard time accepting "no" for answer. This is especially true for children with ASD or ADHD, who may be more impulsive and needy. These children struggle even more with this and often react with even greater intensity. Every parent needs to say "no" to their child at times, be it for things like snacks, toys, trips, or even for an outfit he/she disagrees their child should wear. A child might use many tactics to get his or her way. Crying, arguments and discussions are the most common, but many children present with aggression against parents. Some children even resort to property destruction. Sometimes it is easier for parents to just give in to their child's tantrums rather than deal with the fallout. Parents are overwhelmed with the many tasks daily life requires, such as working outside the home, preparing meals, doing laundry, or taking care of other children. It is tempting to simply give the child the snack or object he is demanding instead of risking the unpleasantness involved with saying 'no'. However, each time a child gets his way by means of aggressive behavior, arguing, or even just crying, the child is ingraining negative habits and tactics to be used next time and for the future. As unpleasant as as the process may be, it is crucial for parents to teach their children the necessary skills for tolerating "no". It is far more worthwhile for parents to endure a few hours or even days of tantrums rather than suffer needlessly for years with a child who cannot accept a "no".

So what are the skills and how can we teach them?

---Introduce to your child the concept of flexibility. Explain to your child how being flexible is an essential skill that he/she will need in the future. In real life not everything goes a person’s way, and we need to learn to accept it. Make the words 'flexibility' and 'acceptance' household words. Model acceptance and flexibility. When anything unexpected happens, especially something disappointing, demonstrate your acceptance to your child. "Oh, I'm little disappointed. I was supposed to meet my friend today, but she can't make it. But that's ok. I can be flexible. We'll meet tomorrow." Scaffold flexibility and acceptance. "We were supposed to go to the zoo, but now it's raining! But we can be flexible. Let's go to the ice cream store instead." Notice and praise members of the family practicing flexibility and acceptance. "Wow, everyone, did you see how flexible Moishy was when there were no more red lollipops left? He just took a green one even though he really wanted a red one." The more you talk about it, the more natural the concept will be. You want your child to attain fluency in the all-important concepts of flexibility and acceptance. ---In order to jump start the child’s behavior of accepting parent’s decisions, a reward system should be implemented to motivate the child. Creating a system in the form of a chart with rewards will help teach the skills so they can eventually become part of the child's repertoire. The child should be rewarded each time he/she accepts a 'no'. Once the child will practice accepting “No” from parents with an accompanying reward, it will be easier for the child to generalize the skill in the absence of a reward. It is best if the program is focused on a specific target, such as, for example, frequent requests for snacks. If the target is clearly defined it is easier to reward and implement the program. A good way to introduce the skill is by doing role play with the child. Have the child practice making requests from the parent, practice denying the request, and reward child for accepting 'no.' ---It is essential to use praise along with the reward program. Give sincere verbal praise each time child accepts “no.” For instance, say “I’m really proud when you are flexible." ---Once child completed the chart or similar program, continue providing verbal without providing a tangible reinforcer. If praise was consistently used during the reward process, the positive associations the child will have will help bridge the gap when eliminating tangible reinforcers. Thus praise will have the desired effect similar to actual physical objects. ---Place behavior on extinction. Placing behavior on extinction is accomplished by withholding reinforcers that encourage negative behaviors, thus eliminating these negative behaviors. When children misbehave, it is always to achieve a desired outcome. In this case, the negative behaviors would be tantruming, crying, aggression, or destruction of property when hearing a 'no,' and the reinforcer would be giving in to these behaviors. The child's desired outcome in this case is whatever demand he/she made, such as a snack, toy, privilege, etc. By placing whatever behavior the child exhibiting on extinction, the focus will be on consciously refusing to give in to this child's negative behaviors, thereby shaping his/her behaviors in the future. A child will eventually stop exhibiting behaviors that do not work. Important pointers to have in mind when placing behaviors on extinction: ---It may take some time. The longer a child has been demonstrating negative behaviors, the longer it will take to eliminate these behaviors. If a child has a history of getting his way by either aggression, property destruction, or manipulation, then understandably, he/she will not simply stop exhibiting these behaviors overnight. Patience and commitment are vital. ---The most important component is to not give in to child’s inappropriate behaviors. Either ignore the behavior, or use a short phrase like “Sorry, you can’t have it.” Repeat it like a broken record if you need to. Do not engage in reasoning and arguments. Doing so will make the child feel there is an opening and will only prolong the process. No negotiations. ---It is extremely important to be absolutely consistent. Giving in even once to a tantrum or similar negative behavior will undo all progress and set you back to the beginning. By capitulating even 'just this once' you show your child that sometimes his/her behaviors work, and will result in him/her trying it again in the future. ---Be prepared for an Extinction Burst. This is a temporary increase in negative behaviors or their intensity when behaviors are not achieving their desired results. When denying access, you should expect your child’s behaviors to escalate before decreasing. When a child has a history of getting his way by, for instance, crying, this child will use more extreme tactics to get what he wants if his parents are denying him. He may start with throwing objects or even demonstrate aggression against his parents. If parents are prepared and know what to expect, it will be easier for them to ignore the child and not give in to his manipulation. However, it is absolutely crucial to understand that if the target behavior you are trying to eliminate is dangerous or has the potential for becoming so, you should not attempt extinction without the guidance of a licensed behavior analyst. Since negative behaviors typically escalate during an extinction burst, there is significant danger involved. The ultimate goal is helping shape happy and content children who can cope with challenge and adversity. By teaching our children the vital concepts of flexibility and acceptance, we are giving them tools for life. 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