Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is therapy built on the science of learning and behavior. It aims to help increase helpful behaviors while decreasing behaviors that affect learning or are harmful in children with autism.
If you’ve been considering ABA Therapy for your child, you may be wondering when the best time to start is. At Linx Community Services, we’ve put together some helpful guidelines for when to start and stop ABA Therapy for your child.
The best time for your child to start ABA Therapy is between 2 and 6. Beginning at the age of 2 is considered optimal since children are at a crucial developmental point where ABA therapy can assist them in developing critical skills like following directions, communicating, and preparing for preschool.
In ABA therapy, children will meet certain milestones, such as learning to care for themselves by brushing their teeth and hair.
Several factors determine how long your child will require ABA therapy, and there is no set answer; the time will vary by individual. Their length of time spent in therapy will depend on how well they respond to the therapy and whether or not it works for their needs.
This therapy is designed to help children meet specific milestones and goals outlined in their ABA therapy that will help them live independently or semi-independently. If the child is meeting goals and milestones quickly, they may complete therapy within months or a couple of years. Other children may need many years of ABA therapy and will continue to need services as adults.
Some children may need to stop therapy if it is too stressful for them or too challenging. If the therapy is not meeting their needs, it can cause them to become more triggered and resistant.
In most cases, many ABA therapists recommend that ABA therapy be stopped gradually for children who are doing well in it. If the therapy is not causing violent or disruptive behavior and is not triggering them, it is often better to wean the child from therapy.
Several factors indicate your child is not ready to stop ABA therapy; some of these factors include:
Problems with behavior can’t be controlled by teachers, parents, or caretakers without BCBA intervention.
Children require direct instruction to learn in a natural environment.
Behavior and teaching plans can’t be implemented effectively by teachers, caretakers, or parents.
Different educational environments provide no benefit to the child.
Goals set in ABA therapy are not being met effectively or in a timely manner.
Children can’t adapt effectively or implement new behaviors in a new environment with little or no teaching.
These are some of the indicators that demonstrate the child should continue with ABA therapy. The child’s therapy plan should be reviewed regularly and adjusted as needed to ensure the child remains on track and can conclude ABA therapy at a safe and appropriate time.
ABA therapy works on a progressive ending with supportive transitioning for the child and their parents or caretakers. When your child transitions out of ABA therapy, the transition will include training for the teacher and the parent or caretaker. An in-depth review of the child’s ongoing goals, transition plan, and data will also be completed.
Once a child with autism completes ABA therapy, parents and caretakers should utilize all resources and support services as needed within their communities and schools. It is also recommended that you gain the support of family members and other people in your home to reinforce the goals and behaviors the child has learned in ABA therapy.
It is important to continue to monitor your child for any signs they may need to restart ABA therapy. If your child shows regression in their behaviors, fails to maintain the goals they met in therapy, or encounters new triggers such as moving or changing schools, they may benefit from restarting therapy.
At Linx Community Services, we provide professional ABA therapy services that are effective in helping children meet their goals. Contact us today to learn more.
