Most scientists believe that autism has been in existence since the history of humankind. Some speculate that the ancient legends about “changelings” are stories of autistic kids. What is autism about? This is a complex developmental disability whereby neurological disorders impair brain functions.
The problem exhibits within the first years of a child’s life. The condition displays various symptoms, which vary from one person to another. Fortunately, there are various behavioral therapies to help autistic children.
Why go for long-term behavioral therapy?
Most parents wonder which is the best behavioral therapy for their autistic kids. Most learning institutions often move kids into the mainstream in their early school years. However, shifting a kid from an intensive behavioral program can hinder their progress.
Children who undergo therapy are highly likely to outgrow the condition entirely. Most interventions now focus on age-appropriate skills allowing for an easy transition into the mainstream.
The best thing about behavioral therapy is that it’s safe and effective. It comes in multiple styles, and you can always get one to suit your child’s needs. Behavioral therapy is an excellent way to develop skills in kids with autism. For instance, aba therapy for kids helps autistic children overcome their condition by encouraging positive actions.
What are the types of behavioral therapies to consider?
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
ABA is one of the most researched therapies for autism. It teaches play, communication, self-care, and social skills, which helps minimize problematic behaviors. It’s a reward system that works best with kids since they are likely to embrace new challenges.
The idea behind this is that autistic kids have low absorption capacity, and tasks are divided into different areas allowing them to focus on each separately. The therapy applies discreet trial training (DTT), which stays with the most basic skills and moves to more complex ones, and the child grows.
- Verbal Behavior Therapy (VBT)
VBT teaches non-vocal kids purposeful communication and language. It helps kids learn to use words functionally to get the desired response. It’s an approach that assists autistic kids in learning language by connecting words to their purposes. It aims to move beyond labeling to gesturing and vocalizing their requests.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is normally recommended for autistic children with mild symptoms. The therapy defines triggers to certain behaviors allowing the child to recognize those moments by themselves. Moreover, the therapy involves practical responses whereby kids learn through practicals. It helps kids face their concerns and common fears.
Why choose ABA therapy for your autistic child?
Applied Behavior Analysis incorporates various techniques to help the therapist understand a child’s changing behavior. It’s very flexible and can be adapted to meet a child’s unique needs. What’s more, it teaches useful skills that the child will need in their day-to-day lives and works best for one on one and group sessions.
The bottom line
There are different therapies to benefit autistic kids. ABA is quite common and offers numerous gains. If you plan to enroll your child in this kind of therapy, seek help from a reputed service provider. This ensures that your child gets the attention they deserve.
