Author: golden-user

Children with autism often struggle in their personal, social, and educational environments. As a parent, it may not always be easy to know how to help and support them so as to promote the best possible behaviors and discourage the negative ones. ABA services at home can be an effective way to address these challenges in a familiar and comfortable way.

 

In this guide, we will look at how to design a Behavior Support Plan, what applied behavioral therapy is, and what kind of professional help you should seek for your child. 

What is a Behavior Support Plan 

A Behavior Support Plan is a personalized plan designed to help, support, and promote healthy and positive behaviors in a person’s life who may be struggling with challenging behavior. The design of the plan is done to center the participant’s needs and health.

why would a child be given a BSP?

A child may be given a BSP when they are displaying challenging behaviors that are interfering with their ability to learn, communicate, or participate in daily activities. These behaviors may include aggression, self-injury, tantrums, noncompliance, and other disruptive behaviors. The BSP outlines specific strategies and interventions that can be used to help the child manage their behavior more effectively.

The goal of a BSP is to provide the child with the support and skills they need to be successful in their environment. The plan may include a range of interventions such as teaching alternative behaviors, modifying the environment, providing visual supports, and using positive reinforcement.

Overall, a BSP is a critical component of a comprehensive behavior support plan for children with challenging behaviors, as it provides a roadmap for parents, teachers, and other professionals to help the child manage their behavior and achieve success in their daily lives.

Steps of a Behavior Support Plan 

A Behavior Support Plan (BSP) is designed to help provide extra, personalized support for a child or student. These plans take into account the child’s difficulties, their homes and learning environments, and other needs the child may have. Let’s consider different aspects of creating the best possible BSP for your autistic child. 

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

According to the PACER Center for children with disabilities, a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is “a process for identifying problem behaviors and developing interventions to improve or eliminate those behaviors.” The process takes into account the particular difficulties a child with autism may have in terms of learning, communication, and completing day-to-day tasks.

 

There are different instances in which an FBA is required for a child such as:

 

1. “[A] child “is removed from school for more than 10 consecutive days for behavior that is a manifestation of the student’s disability.”
2. “[A] child is removed for more than 10 school days for conduct that is not a manifestation of the disability but the IEP team determines that an FBA is necessary.
3. “[A] child is placed in an interim alternative educational setting for not more than 45 school days for behavior involving a dangerous weapon, illegal drugs or infliction of serious bodily injury.”

Building a Behavior Support Team

According to the Wyoming Department of Health, it is crucial for the behavior support team to be made up “of individuals who play an active role in the participant’s life” and who can work together to improve behaviors. This may include:

 

• Teachers
• Parents
• Friends
• Case Manager
• Psychologist
• Medical Staff
• Program Supervisor

 

It is important that the people involved in the support team have had significant interaction with the participant so they can best identify the specific struggles they have. This is also why having a diversity of people involved in the team can be useful: teachers may have a better idea of the social struggles the participant may face, while parents may have a better idea of their struggles with daily tasks.

 

It is also crucial for the people involved in the team to be able to communicate in a respectful and open manner, and keep the participant’s wellbeing as the goal of the group. Remember, the goal of the group “is to create a team that represents all of the key individuals that will interact with the participant both in and outside of your program.” The team has a responsibility to create a supportive space and network for the individual.

Person Centered Planning (PCP)

According to PACER, Person Centered Planning (PCP) refers to “groups of people focus on an individual and that person’s vision of what they would like to do in the future.” The idea with PCP is to create a space where the behavioral support team can come together to help develop a plan to help the person gain autonomy over their life in a safe and productive way.

 

One advantage of Person Centered Planning is that it is creative and adapts to the person involved in the plan. If the participant is feeling unsure about someone in their team, a specific step which is being implemented, or about the direction the plan is taking, Person Centered Planning allows for them to be vocal about these issues and for the plan and the team to adapt accordingly.

What Should Person Centered Planning for Children Look Like?

Ideally Person Centered Planning design should focus on the following:

 

• Keeping the child at the center of decisions and planning
• Celebrating the child’s successes and accomplishments
• Help the child learn to best express their desires and needs
• Show the child that they are respected and deserve to be
• Help the behavioral support team listen to the child

 

How is Person Centered Planning Different From Other Kinds of Planning

What Person Centered Planning provides in particular against other forms of conventional planning is that it considers the person as a multifaceted individual with different environments, social conditions, and personality traits. It considers what the particular individual needs given their conditions rather than merely applying generic, pre-designed plans on the person.

Steps for an Person Centered Plan

There are certain steps which should be taken into account when implementing Person Centered Planning. These steps include:

 

• assessing a child’s current skills and difficulties
• setting goals and objectives – for example, learning how to say ‘hello’
• designing and implementing a program that teaches the ‘target’ skill
• measuring the ‘target’ skill to see whether the program is working
• evaluating the program itself and making changes as needed.

 

These are steps which can provide effective and adaptive changes to your child’s behavior. As with all therapy, Applied Behavioral Analysis is a process, and requires time to take effect. 

 

What is included in a Behavior Support Plan?

The specific components of a BSP can vary depending on the child’s individual needs and the results of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA). However, a typical BSP may include the following elements:

1. Summary of the challenging behavior: A description of the behavior(s) of concern, including frequency, duration, and intensity.
2. Antecedent strategies: Strategies for preventing or reducing the occurrence of the behavior(s) of concern by modifying the environment, routines, or interactions with others.
3. Replacement behaviors: A description of the replacement behaviors that the child can use instead of engaging in the behavior(s) of concern. These behaviors should be functional, socially appropriate, and meet the child’s needs.
4. Consequence strategies: Strategies for responding to the behavior(s) of concern, including positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior and consequences for inappropriate behavior.
5. Crisis management plan: A plan for managing crisis situations that may arise when the behavior(s) of concern occur.
6. Data collection and monitoring: A plan for collecting data on the behavior(s) of concern and monitoring the effectiveness of the BSP over time.
7. Training and support: A plan for training parents, teachers, and other professionals on the implementation of the BSP and providing ongoing support to ensure its effectiveness.

Monitoring Behavior Support Plans 

The proper monitoring of the behavioral support plan is just as crucial as the implantation of a Behavior Support Plan. This ensures that it is providing the most effective support possible. 

 

To do so, it is important to monitor both the achievements and the problems which may emerge throughout the course of the plan implementation. Monitoring achievements means observing what behaviors the child is best performing and what kinds of situations they best respond to. In that way, the child can be rewarded and appreciated for their work, and encourage them to continue the positive behavior. 

 

It is important for the participant to feel that they are making progress themselves, and that the hard work they are putting into changing their behaviors is acknowledged by the people surrounding them.

 

Monitoring problems means considering what kind of difficulties arise in the child’s behavior whether those be social, educational, or in their day-to-day life. This is where communication between the team members is crucial so they can touch base about the different issues the child may be having and change or adapt the plan accordingly.

Tips for Behavior Support Plans

There are certain things which are important to keep in mind when creating a Behavior Support Plan. In this section, we will be going over some tips and advice for anyone looking to create a Behavior Support Plan. 

Keep Behavior Support Plans Simple

Keeping Behavior Support Plans simple is important so that the goals are clear and transparent. Overcomplicating the plan’s design can sometimes make it more difficult to know exactly what to do or at which part of the process the participant is.

 

Adjust the Plan When Necessary

While sticking to the plan is in most cases the right way to go, it is crucial to allow for flexibility and the possibility to change and adapt to obstacles and events that may come up. This includes staying attentive to changes in the participant’s desires or needs which may change over time. This may include changing the time frame of the plan if the participant is pacing faster or slower than expected.

 

Stay Focused on Specific Behaviors

Behavioral therapy is designed on focusing on specific behaviors and behavioral cycles in the participant, and changing those which are negative or causing challenges in their lives. If new negative behaviors develop, it is important to adapt the plan to have those behaviors accounted for. 

Keep the Environment Supportive

Therapy is not always easy for either the participant or their support team. Keeping an open communication both about how the plan is going, as well as for the participant to communicate about their feelings regarding the evolution of the plan. This also means regularly checking in with the participant to make sure they feel safe, respected, and supported. 

What is Golden Care Therapy?

Golden Care Therapy is a New Jersey-based ABA therapy provider that helps children with autism through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. This center designs personalized treatment for the child as well as Parent Training to help parents support their autistic child. 

 

If you are a New York, New Jersey or Indiana resident looking for high-quality and professional therapeutic support for your autistic child, we recommend Golden Care Therapy. 

 

What Golden Care Therapy Does to Help

Golden Care Therapy uses ABA therapy to best help the child involved and their parents reach their goals in a sustainable way. Its personalized design helps account for all of the different aspects of the child’s life which may require adaptation to ensure success. The focuses of Golden Care Therapy’s program include:

 

• Language Skills
• Skills Acquisition
• Behavior Modification
• Activities of Daily Life (ADL) Skills
• Social Skills
• Executive Function

 

Golden Care Therapy also offers Social Skills Groups designed to help children with autism practice social skills in a safe and supervised environment. This is a great way for your child to put into practice the skills they acquire during one-on-one therapy in a fun way. 

How Does the Golden Care Therapy Process Work?

If you are a parent looking for quality therapy for your child with autism, Golden Care Therapy has made the process especially easy to access the help you need. The Golden Care Therapy website has outlined the simple steps you will take once you decide to seek professional help. 

1. Inquiry

The first step of the process is to either call Golden Care Therapy or fill out one of the online forms which can be found here.

 

1. Assessment 

The second step is to send in insurance information and the formal diagnosis of the child. Once received, the clinical director will meet with your child and yourself for evaluation and to establish the specific therapeutic needs.

 

1. Approval

Once the assessment has been done, a report will be written out by one of the members of the Golden Care Therapy team which will then be submitted to your insurance. After receiving the insurance’s approval, the child will be able to begin the therapy.

 

The final steps will be setting up a schedule to best fit you and your child’s personal agendas. 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

 

Given the vast disinformation spread and lack of knowledge surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), many adults and children are unaware of how the effects of the neurodevelopmental disorder may affect their peers. Educating children without autism on the disorder and the benefits of ABA therapy at home is a great way to help them understand the challenges their autistic peers face and hopefully, decrease bullying.

Why is it important to explain autism to children?

It’s important to explain autism to children for several reasons. Here are a few:

1. Promotes understanding and acceptance: When children are taught about autism, they are more likely to understand and accept their peers who have autism. This can help to promote positive relationships and reduce social isolation for children with autism.
2. Reduces stigma and misconceptions: Educating children about autism can help to reduce stigma and misconceptions about the condition. This can help to create a more inclusive and accepting society.
3. Helps children with autism understand themselves: When children with autism are taught about their condition, they may better understand why they think, feel, and act differently than their peers. This can help to promote self-awareness and self-acceptance.
4. Facilitates communication and support: When children understand autism, they may be better able to communicate with and support their peers with autism. This can help to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all children.

Explaining autism to children is an important step in promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for all children. By teaching children about autism, we can help to create a more compassionate and supportive society for everyone.

How to explain autism to a chld

Explain What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (AS) which is commonly referred to as ‘autism’ is considered a developmental disability. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the developmental disability is defined as potentially causing “significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.”

 

Explain that autism is a disability that affects many children. These children are just like other children but they have difficulty fitting in with their peers socially, behaviorally and academically. 

What Causes Autism?

Explain that autism is not something the child chose and doctor’s aren’t 100% sure what the causes are. Autism is not an illness, and should not be treated as such. 

 

Certain factors have been identified as likely having an effect on the presence of autism, “including environmental, biologic and genetic factors.” Some factors which make children more likely to have autism include:

 

• Having a specific type of gene
• Having a sibling with autism
• “Individuals with certain genetic or chromosomal conditions, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis”
• Being born to older parents

 

There is no evidence to back up the dangerous and unscientific claim that vaccines cause autism. Several studies have shown that there is no link between vaccines and autism. The CDC has an informative page detailing the lack of scientific basis for such a claim. 

Share Information Specific to Your Child 

Autism is a spectrum disability. Explain that everyone with autism is different. In some children it might not be noticeable at all, while with other children they are completely nonverbal. You can help children understand where your child stands on the autism spectrum scale and what can be expected. 

 

Autism should not be spoken about as something which is bad and to be feared. In fact, there are many resources available online to help with communicating about autism. If you are unsure about the kind of information you should share with your child, you can contact an educational professional or a therapist specialized in autism for help.

Read Books About Autism and Autistic Characters 

As with all subjects, books are a great and effective way to help children understand difficult concepts. There are many books written and designed to help make ASD a more comprehensible notion which will help children, both with and without autism, understand the condition and what it entails. 

 

Books can also make the conversation more interactive and less stressful for the child reading. They can be a helpful bonding activity, as well.

 

Different Like Me and My Brother Charlie are great books to read to children to help them understand autism.

Explaining Autistic Meltdowns to Children without Autism

Meltdowns of autistic children can be some of the most difficult behaviors for children without autism to understand. According to the National Autistic Society, a meltdown is “an intense response to an overwhelming situation [which] happens when someone becomes completely overwhelmed by their current situation and temporarily loses control of their behavior.”

 

This can lead to the expression of a variety of behaviors, such as verbal ones including shouting, screaming, or crying, and physical ones, such as kicking, hitting, and biting. It may also be the other way around: for some people with autism, a meltdown may result in “[refusing] to interact, withdrawing from situations they find challenging or avoiding them altogether.”

 

By explaining that children with autism have difficulty with communicating their feelings can help other children have more empathy when their autistic peer is having a meltdown .

 

Let them know what to do in the event of a meltdown. Make sure they know they are not responsible for the autistic child, but they can try to help them. Here are some ideas for dealing with a meltdown:

 

• Give them some time - it can take a while to recover from information or sensory overload. 
• Calmly ask them (or their parent or friend) if they’re OK, but bear in mind they’ll need more time to respond than you might expect. 
• Make space – try to create a quiet, safe space as best you can. Ask people to move along and not to stare, turn off loud music and turn down bright lights – whatever you can think of to reduce the information overload, try it.

 

Building a Bond Between Siblings with and without Autism 

Building a bond between siblings is important for any family especially if one has autism and one does not. That being said, it may be difficult for the sibling who does not fall under the ASD spectrum to understand their sibling with autism, making the creation of bonds sometimes more difficult than in other cases.

 

Here is a list of different ways siblings may struggle with having an autistic sibling:

 

• Not knowing how to connect with their sibling with autism
• Lack of attention and alone time with parents
• Concerns about privacy
• Stress from increased responsibility
• Embarrassment

 

It is important to listen to each sibling about their struggles and to try to understand why they may feel the way they do.

Honest Questions are Not Rude

One situation which children without autism may struggle to understand is when children with autism ask questions in ways that appear, at first sight, to be rude or too straightforward. By explaining to typical children that people with autism may struggle with social cues or to incorporate social norms in the way they speak. As a result they may ask questions in a way that seems mean without intending it to be at all. 

 

How an ABA Therapist Can Help

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapists are a great way to help children with autism work with their loved ones and family in order to create and promote healthy, communicative relationships. An ABA therapist can help explain to other children the disorder and also incorporate them in sessions to promote the relationship. In this section, we will look at what ABA is, how it can help with children with autism, and where you can find high-quality, professional ABA therapy.

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA focuses on identifying harmful behaviors and promoting positive behaviors. It works with the individual child, their problematic behaviors and their family’s to overcome challenges. The use of positive reinforcement aims to change negative behaviors into positive ones.

 

ABA therapy can also be effectively used with other behavioral problems such as addiction, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

What Golden Care Therapy Does to Help

Golden Care Therapy uses ABA therapy to best help the child involved and their parents reach their goals in a sustainable way. Its personalized design helps account for all of the different aspects of the child’s life which may require adaptation to ensure success. The focuses of Golden Care Therapy’s program include:

 

• Language Skills
• Skills Acquisition
• Behavior Modification
• Activities of Daily Life (ADL) Skills
• Social Skills
• Executive Function

 

Golden Care Therapy also offers Social Skills Groups designed to help children with autism practice social skills in a safe and supervised environment. This is a great way for your child to put into practice the skills they acquire during one-on-one therapy in a fun way. 

How Does the Golden Care Therapy Process Work?

If you are a parent looking for quality therapy for your child with autism, Golden Care Therapy has made the process especially easy to access the help you need. The Golden Care Therapy website has outlined the simple steps you will take once you decide to seek professional help. 

1. Inquiry

The first step of the process is to either call Golden Care Therapy or fill out one of the online forms which can be found here.

 

1. Assessment 

The second step is to send in insurance information and the formal diagnosis of the child. Once received, the clinical director will meet with your child and yourself for evaluation and to establish the specific therapeutic needs.

 

1. Approval

Once the assessment has been done, a report will be written out by one of the members of the Golden Care Therapy team which will then be submitted to your insurance. After receiving the insurance’s approval, the child will be able to begin the therapy.

 

The final steps will be setting up a schedule to best fit you and your child’s personal agendas. 

Tips for parents explaining autism to children

Here are some tips for parents explaining autism to their children:

1. Keep it simple: When explaining autism, use age-appropriate language and concepts that your child can understand.
2. Focus on strengths: Emphasize the strengths and positive qualities of individuals with autism, such as their unique abilities, interests, and perspectives.
3. Use visual aids: Visual aids such as pictures, videos, or books can be helpful in explaining autism to children. This can make the information more concrete and easier to understand.
4. Encourage questions: Encourage your child to ask questions about autism and provide honest and accurate answers. This can help to promote understanding and reduce misconceptions.
5. Use real-life examples: Use real-life examples of individuals with autism who your child may know or have heard of. This can help to make the information more relatable and meaningful.
6. Practice empathy: Teach your child to practice empathy and understanding towards their peers with autism. Encourage them to be patient, kind, and accepting of others who may think, feel, or act differently than they do.
7. Be positive: Emphasize the positive aspects of diversity and how differences make our world more interesting and vibrant.

Conclusion

 

In this guide, we considered how to best explain autism to children who do not have autism, what the best strategies are for difficult situations of communication, and what kind of professional help is available to help for children with autism struggling in their behavior. 

 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

If you are looking for a career in the field of behavioral health, becoming a registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a great option. RBTs play an important role in providing support to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

But what is the typical salary for an RBT in New Jersey? In this article, we will take a look at RBT salaries in New Jersey and discuss some of the factors that can affect wage rates.

What is an RBT?

An RBT or registered behavioral technician, is a professional who provides support to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. RBTs work under the supervision of a licensed therapist or behavior analyst. They may provide services in homes, schools, clinics, or other community settings.

They work on behavioral challenges , social skills, daily living skills, and communication.

How to Become RBT certified

There are several ways to become RBT certified but you need to be at least 18 years old.

One way is to complete an RBT training program that has been approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

Training is usually about 35-40 hours long and covers topics such as autism spectrum disorders, positive behavior support, basic principles of behavioral analysis, and data collection.

RBTs must also complete a supervised work experience or practicum. This can be done by working under the supervision of a licensed therapist or behavior analyst for at least 400 hours.

Another option is to earn a degree in applied behavior analysis or a related field, and then pass the RBT exam administered by the BACB.

To apply for a certification, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an RBT training program, and pass the RBT exam.

What is the average RBT salary in New Jersey?

There is no one answer to this question as RBT salaries can vary depending on a number of factors. However the average salary for an RBT in New Jersey is $37,594. That is equivalent to $18.07 an hour.

However, RBTs in some areas of the state may make less than this amount. For example, those working in rural areas may earn less than their counterparts in more urban areas.

What are the benefits of becoming an RBT for Golden Care?

There are many benefits to becoming an RBT for Golden Care. Some of these include:

-salary of $35 an hour

-$1000 sign on bonus

-The opportunity to work with a variety of clients

-The chance to make a difference in the lives of those we serve

Conclusion

If you are looking for a career in the field of behavioral health, becoming an RBT is a great option. There are many benefits to working as an RBT, including the potential to earn a good salary. If you are interested in becoming an RBT, contact Golden Care today. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our program and the certification process.

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New Jersey, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

 

When it comes to autism therapies, ABA therapy is one of the most common and well-known. But do you need an autism diagnosis to qualify for ABA therapy? In this article, we will explore that question and give you some information on ABA therapy and autism. Keep reading for more information!

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy is a form of behavioral intervention that is often used to help those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA therapy focuses on teaching new skills and behaviors through positive reinforcement. This type of therapy can be extremely beneficial for those with ASD, as it can help improve communication and social skills, as well as reduce problem behaviors.

How to Diagnose Autism

If you think that you or your child may have ASD, it is important to seek out a professional evaluation.

Your doctor or pediatrician can do a basic screening for ASD, but a diagnosis can only be made by a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.

This evaluation will typically involve a comprehensive assessment that looks at your child’s developmental history, behavior, and cognitive functioning. Based on this information, a diagnosis of ASD can be made.

Signs of Autism

There are a number of different signs that may indicate that someone has ASD.

Some common signs include:

– delays in speech and language development

– difficulty making eye contact

– difficulty with social interactions

– repetitive behaviors or interests

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or your child, it is important to seek professional help.

Do You Need an Autism Diagnosis to Qualify for ABA Therapy?

The answer to this question is not entirely black and white.

You don’t need to have a diagnosis of autism to benefit from ABA therapy.

Some insurance companies may require a diagnosis of ASD in order to provide coverage for ABA therapy, so it is important to check with your insurance provider.

Additionally, some ABA therapists may only work with those who have an official diagnosis of ASD. However, there are also ABA therapists who will work with individuals who do not have a formal diagnosis but show signs of ASD.

If you are seeking ABA therapy for a child who is not diagnosed with autism, it is important to ask the therapist about their policy.

If you feel like you or your child may benefit from ABA therapy, don’t hesitate to seek out a professional evaluation. You can work with your doctor and a therapist who can help you along the diagnosing process. Once you receive a diagnosis your can discuss coverage with your insurance. 

Is ABA only used for autism?

While Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is most commonly associated with autism, it can be used to support individuals with a wide range of developmental and behavioral challenges, as well as those without any diagnosis at all.

ABA is a scientifically validated approach to understanding behavior and how it is influenced by the environment. The principles of ABA can be applied to a variety of settings and populations, from schools to hospitals to homes, and from young children to adults.

Some examples of areas where ABA can be used outside of autism include:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other behavioral disorders
• Intellectual disabilities
• Learning disabilities
• Anxiety disorders
• Substance abuse disorders
• Traumatic brain injury
• Developmental delays
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

In each of these areas, the principles of ABA can be used to assess and understand the individual’s behavior, identify the factors that influence that behavior, and develop interventions to support positive change. The specific techniques used may vary depending on the individual’s needs, but the underlying principles of ABA remain the same.

Overall, while ABA is most commonly used for autism, it is a flexible and adaptable approach that can be used to support individuals with a wide range of developmental and behavioral challenges.

Conclusion

So, do you need an autism diagnosis to qualify for ABA therapy? The answer is not always black and white. Some insurance companies may require a diagnosis of ASD in order to provide coverage for ABA therapy, while others may not.

 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

Technology has been a huge help to those living with autism. From assistive technologies that help them communicate, to apps that keep them organized.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of technology when it comes to assisting those with autism. We will also look at some of the most popular technologies and how they have helped autistic children live more independently and productively.

What is assistive technology?

Assistive technology refers to any device, equipment, software, or system that is used to enhance the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology can range from simple tools like magnifying glasses, hearing aids, or pencil grips to more complex devices like speech-generating devices, motorized wheelchairs, or computer software that helps with communication, learning, or cognitive tasks.

The goal of assistive technology is to increase the independence, productivity, and overall quality of life of individuals with disabilities, by helping them to overcome the barriers that they face in everyday life. Assistive technology can be customized to meet the specific needs of the individual, and can be used in a variety of settings, including home, school, work, and community environments.

Read on to find out why more and more children with autism are using assistive technologies to help them.

Assistive Technologies for Autism

People with autism use assistive technology for a variety of reasons. Many individuals with autism experience challenges in areas like communication, social interaction, sensory processing, or executive functioning, which can impact their ability to participate fully in everyday life activities. Assistive technology can help to support these areas and improve the individual’s overall quality of life.

For example, some individuals with autism may have difficulty with verbal communication and may benefit from the use of communication devices like speech-generating devices or picture exchange communication systems (PECS). These tools can help the individual to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs more effectively, and improve their social interaction with others.

Others may have sensory processing difficulties and may benefit from sensory tools like weighted blankets, sensory swings, or noise-cancelling headphones, which can help to regulate their sensory input and reduce anxiety.

In addition, assistive technology can help individuals with autism to participate more fully in educational or vocational activities, by providing tools like educational software programs or organizational tools to help them stay on task and manage their time more effectively.

Overall, assistive technology can play an important role in supporting individuals with autism to overcome the challenges they face and achieve their full potential. By identifying the specific needs of the individual and selecting the appropriate technology to support those needs, individuals with autism can enhance their independence, productivity, and overall quality of life.

Technology That Helps Those with Autism

Here are some skills that can be improved with technology:

Communication Devices

One of the most common types of assistive technology for autism is a communication device. These devices can range from simple picture boards to more complex speech-generating devices.

Picture communication boards consist of a board with pictures or symbols that represent different words or concepts. The child can point to the picture to communicate their needs. It’s beneficial for children who are nonverbal or have difficulty speaking. They can also be used by children who are just beginning to learn to talk.

Some of the most popular apps that help children communicate include Proloquo, AAC TouchChat, and Autism Talk Now.

Modeling Behaviors

Many children with autism have difficulty understanding and responding to social cues. Modeling behaviors is a type of technology that can help them learn how to interact with others. It involves showing the child how to perform a certain behavior, such as making eye contact or asking a question.

There are many different software programs that model behaviors, but some of the most popular ones include The Social Express, Autism & Beyond, and Talking Mats.

Scheduling

Assistive technologies can also help children with autism stay organized . Scheduling apps can help them keep track of their day-to-day activities. And reminder apps can help them remember to do things like take their medication or brush their teeth.

Some of the most popular scheduling apps include iDO, myHomework Student Planner, and Time Timer.

Motivation

Many children with autism need motivation to stay on task. And rewards can be a great way to provide that motivation. There are many different apps that use rewards to help children with autism stay focused.

Some of the most popular apps that use rewards include Autism iHelp, Task Analyzer, and ABA Flash Cards HD. Zoolingo , an app that teaches children about animals, is also a great way to motivate and reward kids for completing tasks.

Social Skills

Social skills are another area where technology can help children with autism. There are many different apps that teach children how to interact with others.

Look in My Eyes Restaurant is an app that helps children with autism practice making eye contact. And The Social Express is an app that helps children learn how to start and carry on a conversation.

Technology can help children with autism in many different ways. And the benefits are endless. If you’re looking for ways to help your child with autism, consider using technology.

How Parents Can Use Technology to Help Their Autistic Children

As a parent of an autistic child, you may be wondering how technology can help your child. Here are some ways that technology can help children with autism:

Use apps that improve quality of life

Dreampad is an app that helps autistic children sleep better. And myHomework Student Planner can help them stay organized and on track.

Use the device as a reward

Children with autism are motivated through rewards. You can use their iPad or computer as a reward for completing tasks.

Technology as a model

Many children with autism have difficulty understanding social cues. Modeling behaviors is a type of technology that can help them learn how to interact with others. It involves showing the child how to perform a certain behavior, such as making eye contact or asking a question.

Teach through games

There are many games that help children with autism learn in general and especially learn social skills.

Conclusion

Technology can be a great tool for helping children with autism. It can help them communicate, stay organized, and learn new skills. And it can provide motivation and rewards. There are many different types of technology available, so there is sure to be something that can help your child.

Talk to your child’s doctor or therapist about what technology might be right for your child. And consider using technology to help your child with autism reach his or her full potential.

 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

Unfortunately, ABA therapy is not a cure for autism.

However, there are therapies that can help your autistic child improve their intrapersonal and life skills.

One of these therapies is ABA therapy.  

ABA therapy is an evidence based therapy that can be an effective way to help children with autism reach their full potential.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what ABA therapy is, and how it can help children with autism improve their social skills and communication abilities.

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA therapy is a type of behavior therapy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. It is tailored for each child with autism  to help them learn new skills, such as how to communicate with others or how to control their emotions.

ABA therapy is usually provided by trained therapists, who work one-on-one with the child, parents and caregivers to help them reach their goals. It can be used in a variety of settings, including at home, at school, or in a clinical setting.

How Does ABA Therapy Work?

ABA therapy is based on the principle of operant conditioning, which means that behaviors are learned and can be changed through reinforcement or punishment. In ABA therapy, positive reinforcement is used to increase desirable behaviors, while negative reinforcement is used to decrease undesirable behaviors.

For example, if a child with autism completes a task, ABA therapy would use positive reinforcement to encourage the child to engage in more desired behaviors. This could include verbal praise, physical affection, or rewards such as stickers or toys.

Conversely, if a child with autism is engaging in self-injurious behavior, ABA therapy would use negative reinforcement to decrease this behavior.

ABA therapy can be used to help children with autism improve their social skills, communication abilities, and overall quality of life.

Behaviors That ABA Therapy Aims to Manage

ABA therapy aims to manage the following behaviors and challenges of autistic children:

– Aggression

-Communication difficulties

-Depression

-Disruptive behavior

-Excessive stimming/self injurious behavior

– Social withdrawal

–Sensory Issues

-Tantrums and meltdowns

 

What Causes Autism?

The cause of autism is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention is important for children with autism, as they can make significant progress with treatment.

Is There a Cure For Autism?

There is no cure for autism, but there are a variety of treatments that can help children with autism reach their full potential. ABA therapy is one of the most effective treatments available and can have a significant impact on a child’s development. For more information about ABA therapy and how it can help your child, please contact us at Golden Care today.

Conclusion

In this article, we have taken a closer look at what ABA therapy is, and how it can help children with autism improve their social skills and communication abilities. Every child with autism is different, and will respond to treatment in different ways. However, ABA therapy can be an effective way to help children with autism reach their full potential.

 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

If you are wondering how ABA therapy can work over a virtual medium, then you have come to the right place! Here, we will give you the information you need to make an informed choice about whether virtual ABA therapy is right for your situation.

What is ABA Therapy?

ABA stands for applied behavior analysis and is a method of therapy. ABA therapy is a method of behavioral therapy designed to help change a persons’ behaviors using a tailored system of rewards and reinforcement.

 

ABA therapy can help to improve social skills, communication, interpersonal connection, and learning skills through steady reinforcement and encouragement. ABA therapy is considered a very effective form of therapy for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, also known as ASD.

 

ABA is an effective form of therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder because it can help them to create social bonds, strengthen interpersonal skills, enhance communication skills, and help them to learn learning skills.

 

Where Can ABA Therapy be Done?

ABA therapy can be done in a variety of places. It does take constant awareness and focus on the person in ABA therapy because it is heavily reliant on reinforcing “good” behaviors. That means when the person in therapy does something that shows they are learning a new skill, it needs to be reinforced.

 

Some places that you can practice ABA therapy with the person in therapy are:

•     At school
•     At home
•     In a store/in public
•     A real-life experience (when the child is ready)
•     telehealth/virtual ABA therapy

 

It is important to note that if you decide that you want your child to practice the ABA therapy methods in school, you need to make sure you communicate actively with the school and your child’s teachers so they know what behaviors are being reinforced and how they are being reinforced.

Telehealth ABA Therapy

In this section, you will learn more about telehealth ABA therapy and how it can occur, help, and be effective for your child!

 

What is Telehealth ABA Therapy?

Telehealth ABA therapy is a form of ABA therapy that is done over a form of digital communication! It makes ABA therapy more accessible, easier to do during a pandemic, and easier for families to coordinate times and therapists.

 

Telehealth ABA therapy also allows the child to stay in their home, which helps to keep them relaxed. For some children with autism, a new environment that breaks their routine can cause them a lot of stress, which can lead them to not give their attention to the therapy.

 

Telehealth ABA Therapy Examples

The following are some of the ways your child can get telehealth ABA therapy!

 

•     Zoom
•     FaceTime
•     Skype
•     Google Meet

 

These are all very easy to set up and use, plus because they are video chats, it allows both the child and therapist to see each other, which can help increase the bond. The better the bond between the therapist and child, the better the trust which can help the child learn these skills easier and faster.

 

Advantages of Telehealth ABA

One of the benefits of telehealth ABA therapy is that your child can attend therapy if the therapist is sick or if the child is sick. Either way, the other participant in therapy is protected from germs and everyone can feel better quicker!

 

Plus, if your child is the one sick, they can do their therapy in a more relaxed and rested space; their home. No one likes leaving the house when they are sick and children are certainly no exception to that rule.

 

Another benefit of telehealth ABA therapy is the ability to do therapy anywhere! You can have therapy at home, at a babysitter’s house, at daycare, at the park, at Grandma’s, or on vacation! You do not have to miss out on valuable therapeutic time because you are unable to go to the office or you are out of town.

 

Plus, telehealth ABA therapy comes with a nice cost reduction, so your pockets will thank you as well!

What is Included in Telehealth ABA Therapy?

In telehealth ABA therapy several aspects are included. First, there is the initial assessment where a therapist meets with the child to get to know them, observe their behavior patterns, communication, learning skills, and interactions with others. 

 

This helps the therapist learn all about what skills your child is already doing well and which ones need support from ABA therapy.

 

The second aspect is included in the therapy plan. The therapy plan is a personalized system and plan created by the therapist that will be the treatment path for your child. No two plans are the same because no two children are the same, so you are guaranteed a personal plan with ABA therapy.

 

Third, you as parents are included in the process. The therapist will give you plenty of educational time where parents can learn all about the treatment plan, the skills that the therapist and child are working on, and how to support your child during the treatment.

 

Of course, the next thing you will receive is the ABA therapy itself! This is a long-term aspect of the treatment plan where the treatment plan is put into action and the therapist begins to work with the child to improve their behavior and reinforce good learning habits.

 

Lastly, the therapist will monitor the behavioral changes in your child over time as the therapy progresses to make sure that the proper goals are getting reached. Sometimes the therapist may have to tweak or alter the treatment plan depending on how your child is responding to the therapy.

 

Things to Consider Before Virtual Therapy?

Below are some questions you should ask yourself or your therapist before signing on to a virtual ABA therapy commitment.

 

•     Does the therapist have virtual therapy experience?
•     What will the goals of the ABA therapy look like in your case?
•     How long will the sessions be?
•     Is the therapist’s technology reliable?
•     Is your technology reliable?
•     Will telehealth ABA therapy benefit your child?

 

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied behavior analysis is a form of treatment for the developmental disorder ASD, also known as autism spectrum disorder or autism. ABA is a form of therapy that helps to create new behavioral patterns by rewarding the desired behaviors through reinforcement thereby helping the patient to create a new life and learning skills.

 

ABA therapy is particularly good for people with autism as it can help them to bridge the gap in their behaviors. ABA is a great way to help teach children with autism language and communication skills, greater confidence in social situations, and many more skills that can make their lives a bit more comfortable.

 

How Does ABA Therapy Work?

ABA is very goal-oriented. The technician, or therapist, will identify a small task or achievement for the lesson that day and help guide the person towards that goal employing rewards.

 

Every time the child successfully performs the task or the behavior, they are given a reward as an indication that they did it. The reward is generally something small in nature, but big in the mind. Things like verbal praise and cheering, toys, books, playtime on playgrounds, and other fun activities are all methods of rewarding the child.

 

Additionally, therapists look to discover the triggers that prevent the child from completing the task properly. Triggers vary from child to child and can change over time, but they can be debilitating for a child with autism who has not learned how to self-regulate their emotions around their triggers.

 

The most common triggers for a child with autism are loud, unexpected noises, tiredness, hunger, clutter, distracting objects, or something attention-grabbing that distracts them from the goal at hand.

 

Once the therapist has identified the triggers that can derail a child, the therapist can begin to craft some possible solutions for that trigger to help the child better focus on the goal and to self-regulate their distractions and emotions. Removing the trigger or helping to soothe the child are both possible solutions, but many therapists will create custom solutions for the child they are treating.

 

Lastly, ABA therapy focuses on communication between the families of the child, the child themself, and the therapist. Each session with the child gives the therapist a huge amount of qualitative data and information about the behaviors of the child and how the child responds to different stimuli.

 

Proper and effective communication between the therapist and the families of the child can help to increase the success of the ABA therapy at home and beyond when the family knows what to look for, reinforce, and reward.

Benefits of ABA therapy

Some of the benefits of ABA therapy include:

1. Improved social skills: ABA therapy can help individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to improve their social skills and develop meaningful relationships with others.
2. Enhanced communication skills: ABA therapy can help individuals to improve their communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal. This can help them to express their needs and desires more effectively and to better understand the communication of others.
3. Reduced problem behavior: ABA therapy can be used to reduce problem behavior, such as aggression, self-injury, and tantrums, by teaching alternative behaviors and providing positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior.
4. Increased independence: ABA therapy can help individuals to develop skills that increase their independence, such as self-care, hygiene, and household chores.
5. Improved academic performance: ABA therapy can be used to improve academic performance by teaching academic skills, such as reading, writing, and math, in a structured and supportive environment.
6. Generalization of skills: ABA therapy can help individuals to generalize their newly learned skills to new situations and environments, allowing them to function more independently in their daily lives.
7. Family involvement and support: ABA therapy can involve the family in the treatment process, providing them with strategies and techniques to support their loved one with autism or other developmental disabilities.

Pros of ABA Therapy

There are many pros of ABA therapy that you should know before getting started. Here, we will get into some of the benefits and great aspects of ABA therapy that can help your child grow and learn more life skills.

 

Research Proven Effectiveness

There has been tons of research conducted that proves ABA therapy’s legitimate success and effectiveness, particularly with children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, ABA therapy is one of the longest developmental or behavioral treatments.

 

ABA therapy has certainly stood the test of time and is backed by psychological therapies that are taught in psychology 101 classes around the world. ABA therapy is a form of classical conditioning in which the child is conditioned towards certain behaviors and away from others which can help them become more independent beings.

 

Specialized for Your Child

ABA therapy is specialized for each patient entering therapy. A plan is made by the therapist after meeting and observing the child. The plan may be subject to change as the child grows and develops further, but the plan is their unique strategy for that child.

 

Not many treatments can say the same.

 

Professionally Led

ABA therapy is led by trained professionals with an extensive background in therapy and psychological behavior. This is not some led by a group leader or a psychology student looking to get some clinical hours for their graduate degree.

 

 

Treatment Guidelines

With ABA therapy, there are no confusing suggestion guidelines, or do-it-yourself style strategies. You are guided by your child’s therapist to help. Plus, you can establish boundaries that you want your child and therapist to have when it comes to reinforcing behaviors.

 

Improves Skills

Some of the skills proved to be enhanced through ABA therapy are learning skills, social skills, cognitive function, self-regulation and self-help skills, communication, and improved independence.

 

Cons of ABA Therapy

While ABA therapy is a fantastic option for many people, it still has some issues that can be a problem for some people. Some of the cons of ABA therapy are as follows.

 

Poor Results

Some poorly trained ABA therapists can give subpar results. This can make certain reinforced behaviors robotic or odd. This is not permanent and can be fixed by visiting a well-trained and certified ABA therapist who understands human behavior, particularly autistic children’s behavior.

 

Hard to Find

Good ABA therapists can be very hard to find, and you must find an ABA therapist who is trained properly and understand the art of ABA therapy. Without a good ABA therapist, your child reinforced behaviors can end up robotic, as stated earlier.

 

Long Term

It can take a while for the results to show. ABA therapy is certainly not an overnight fix to behavioral problems and you should not expect to see results after one session.

 

Have patience and trust in your child’s ability to learn, in their ability to be flexible and create new neural pathways. Creating new neural pathways takes time for everyone, so do not get impatient.

 

Costly

ABA therapy can be expensive and is occasionally outside of insurance, so it can be a chunk of money coming out of your pocket.

 

 

Academic

ABA therapy is generally not offered in many schools. Additionally, ABA is not an academic approach to behavior. It is focused on the response and actions of the child, not necessarily the cognitive pre-thought to the behavior.

 

Critics

ABA has critics that say it suppresses the self-expression of the child because it is altering the behaviors the child naturally wants to express. Critics also say that this suppression could be emotionally harmful later in life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ABA therapy is a highly effective form of therapy that has helped countless individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities to improve their social, communication, and behavioral skills, and increase their independence and quality of life. However, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks of ABA therapy as well. The cost of therapy can be prohibitive for many families, and the intensive nature of the therapy can be time-consuming and exhausting for both the child and the family.

Overall, while ABA therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it can be a highly effective tool for improving the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities when used appropriately and with care.

 

If you are ready to work with the best ABA therapy provider in New York, New Jersey or Indiana, give us a call at (732) 402-0297. Our dedicated team is ready to help and we will treat you like family.