What is ABA Therapy?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence‐based science in which behavior modifications are systematically applied to improve socially significant behavior to a meaningful degree. During ABA therapy, skills are broken down into small, easy‐to‐learn steps. Positive reinforcement is used to motivate the child, and data is continuously collected to measure the child’s progress and modify their personalized treatment plan. ABA is the single most effective treatment for children with ASD and the only treatment shown to lead to substantial, lasting improvements in the lives of children with autism (Maglione, 2012).
Why Comprehensive ABA Treatment?
Comprehensive ABA treatment is delivered a minimum of 25 hours per week. It targets multiple domains (language, social, adaptive and maladaptive behaviors). This comprehensive approach decreases problematic behaviors while teaching functional replacement behaviors. Moreover, it will increase independence, communication, age‐appropriate social skills and train parents and caregivers with strategies to help them better cope with the everyday challenges (BACB, 2017)
Why Advocate 25+ Hours Per Week?
Over 40 years of research has supported the effectiveness of ABA therapy (Cohen, 2006; Lovaas, 1987; Reichow, 2012). More recent research indicates that comprehensive ABA treatment delivered 25‐40 hours per week to young children with ASD has shown the most significant gains in social, cognitive, and language development (MacDonald, Parry‐Cruwys, Dupere, Ahearn, 2014). The intensity of hours is also consistent with the treatment recommendations of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB, 2017); the NJDOE’s Autism Program Quality Indicator Guide (NJDOE APQI, 2004); and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP, 2007).
Why Advocate ABA Therapy as Early as Possible?
Neural circuits, which create the foundation for learning, behavior and health, are most flexible or “plastic” during the first three years of life (The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 2009). The efficiency of ABA therapy decreases as the age of the child increases (Granpeesheh et al, 2009). For these reasons, TUT advocates a minimum of 25 hours per week starting as young as 1 year old.
Why The Uncommon Thread?
Our nonprofit organization is committed to providing the highest quality ABA services to the children and families across New Jersey. Our mission is to ensure our clients reach their highest potential by providing comprehensive ABA therapy in a variety of therapeutic settings. Improved outcomes, treatment advocacy, and the commitment of our founders set us apart. The Uncommon Thread is not a destination, but rather a pathway to a more independent life.
