At Greater Horizons, you’ll hear our staff emphasize the importance of adhering to “ABA practices” or “ABA techniques.” Those three letters are more than a buzzword; they’re the backbone of how we engage with our students to create a safe, healthy and engaging learning environment.
What is ABA?
ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis, it’s a science in which we focus on targeting and working on socially significant behavior. Using therapy to learn and understand how behavior works and the function of a behavior. The name speaks for itself; a child will undergo an initial assessment, and that analysis informs the strategies and goals set for an individual child. Applied Behavior Analysis is an evidence-based best practice treatment according to the US Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association. There are numerous studies that show the effectiveness of ABA, especially when it comes to long-term improvements in children with autism.
How Does it Work?
ABA includes a variety of techniques, including positive reinforcement or the “ABCs” (antecedent, behavior, consequence). ABA techniques help teams evaluate why a behavior is happening, what affects whether a behavior happens again, and clues us in on how a child might handle a situation. It also empowers teachers to learn about their students in real-time, rather than hold all students accountable to identical classroom rules across the board.
We understand that no two students with autism are the same. Thus, we don’t believe in “one size fits all” solutions. Our classrooms are uniquely designed to meet the needs of our small learning groups. Even within those groups, our teachers are trained to look for ways to meet the needs of individual learners. This is why our student-teacher ratio is so low; our staff gets the time to invest in individual students.
What are the Benefits of ABA?
ABA programs can help increase language and communication skills for students with autism. These programs can also boost their attention and focus, while helping to decrease maladaptive behavior,, as well as help them succeed in social settings. From an educational standpoint, ABA practices often lead to fewer behavioral issues. This means fewer disruptions and a better chance that students will stay focused.
From classroom instruction to play time, our teachers are guided by ABA training. At Greater Horizons Academy of Excellence, we understand that children with ASD have unique sets of experiences, and therefore they should each have a unique set of goals to evaluate their progress. We want to go beyond the basics of education and help students grow into their best selves. We exist to help students overcome learning difficulties — providing them with the tools and guidance they need for success. Discover what sets Greater Horizons apart by calling (352) 835-3088 or visiting our website to learn more.
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