Every child with autism is different, and they all have unique needs. A certain treatment may help one child but not another. As the science surrounding autism spectrum disorder evolves, more treatments and techniques are being developed to help as many children as possible. ABA therapy is a scientific, evidence-based therapy that gives families the tools they need to support their child with autism. Let’s go over some of the benefits of ABA therapy for children with autism.
What is ABA Therapy?
Applied behavioral analysis, or ABA therapy, is a kind of therapy that focuses on improving specific skills for children with autism. This can include communication skills, social skills, reading and writing, and more. ABA therapy is especially beneficial for children with developmental delays or disabilities, such as autism. ABA therapists use various and unique therapy methods to aid with the growth and development of your child.
ABA Therapy Improves Functional Skills
One of the most important elements of childhood is learning all the functional skills needed to progress through life. We take simple things such as brushing our teeth and getting dressed for granted, but many children with autism struggle with daily functioning. If your child struggles to grasp their early functional skills, ABA therapy could help them out. Basic functional skills include:
- using the bathroom
- getting dressed
- movement skills
- communication skills
ABA Therapy Promotes Independence
It is very important for all children to develop a sense of independence. ABA therapy helps foster independence for children with autism by teaching problem-solving and recognition techniques that can be applied in all aspects of life. This type of therapy also helps children learn to recognize their triggers and how to better manage their own emotions and mentality in their daily lives.
ABA Therapy Helps to Build Social Skills
One of the most significant benefits of ABA therapy is that it helps children with autism improve their social skills. For some children, making friends and relating to others can be very difficult and overwhelming. ABA therapy provides children with the necessary skills to make friends and form connections. For example, therapy allows your child to find more effective ways of communication. Communicating their needs efficiently to others is a skill that extends well beyond therapy and the classroom.
ABA Therapy Helps Parents Too
ABA therapy helps the entire family to understand, sympathize, and assist with their child’s disability. Your child’s therapist will meet with you and discuss a possible treatment plan for your child. They are there to help you out every step of the way and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
The Connections Therapy Center
The Connections Therapy Center serves families of children and adolescents with disabilities and special needs. We are a team of experts in the fields of pediatric speech, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and behavioral sciences. As a team, we offer intensive hands-on therapy for children and adolescents, as well as informative and useful resources for families. If you are interested in learning more about what we can do to help your family, visit us online or give us a call at (301) 577-4333. Want to get more information on how to help your child thrive? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, and Pinterest.