One theorist, Ivar O. Lovaas used behaviorism to teach children with autism. As well, he used a form of a teaching strategy called Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) to maximize learning in children with autism. Discrete trial training (DTT) is most commonly used in ABA therapy. In an ABA program, children with autism learn effectively with discrete trial teaching. For example, …

The components of a successful program in ABA are based on the intervention used for each individual (treatment developed based on the child’s individual strengths and deficits in each area). It is also based on the design in which a certified BCBA has assessed and created the treatment plan. A successful program will address all aspects of the child’s disability. …

Reliable measurement requires that behaviors are defined objectively. Vague terms such as anger, depression, aggression or tantrums are redefined in observable and quantifiable terms, so their frequency, duration or other measurable properties can be directly recorded (Sulzer-Azaroff & Mayer, 1991). For example, a goal to reduce a child’s aggressive behavior might define “aggression” as: “attempts, episodes or occurrences (each separated …

First, an intake appointment is made. At the intake appointment, a diagnostic interview will be conducted with the caregivers to obtain detailed information about the referral concerns and your child’s developmental history, medical history, and family history. Direct observations of your child will occur during the intake appointment by either the intake psychologist or a behavior therapist. The information from …

At Chicago ABA Therapy, meeting the needs of families is a top priority. The best way to do this is by supplying families with exceptional resources and educational materials. Knowledge is power, but also the best support you can give your child in ABA Therapy. One of our popular books, What is ABA Therapy? An Illustrated Guide, helps both parents …

Qualitative Developmental Assessment An evaluation of the quality, rather than the quantity, of a child’s cognitive skills. Rebus A Latin word meaning “thing.” A rebus symbol is a picture that visually represents a word or syllable. There are many types of rebuses, but the most common collection was developed as a mechanism for teaching young non-disabled children to read. Receptive …

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) The educational setting that permits a child with disabilities to derive the most educational benefit while participating in a regular educational environment to the maximum extent appropriate. It is presumed that a child with a disability will be educated in the general education classroom, with appropriate supports, unless the IEP Team deems another setting as more …

Early Intervention Individualized services for infants and toddlers who are at risk for or are showing signs of developmental delay. Echolalia The repetition of speech that is produced by others (a relatively common symptom of autism). Echoed words or phrases can include the same words and inflections as were originally heard or they may be somewhat modified. Immediate echolalia refers …

ABA The abbreviation for Applied Behavior Analysis. See Applied Behavior Analysis. ADA The abbreviation for Americans with Disabilities Act. See Americans with Disabilities Act. Adaptive Behavior The ability to adjust to new situations and to apply familiar or new skills to those situations. For example, a two-year-old is displaying his ability to adapt when he says, “Mine!” to the child …

  Who is certified/qualified to perform ABA therapy? Parents often wonder what certifications and qualifications are required from the therapists who are providing therapy for their children. There are a number of certified professionals who are trained in ABA therapy. An ABA therapist is a professional who uses applied behavior analysis as a form of treatment. Analyzing behavior is helpful …