with asking for what she wants. This might
start with teaching her to say “cookie” and
receive one. Over time, the therapist will help
her learn a more complicated request, such
as “Can I have a cookie?” or “Can I have a
chocolate cookie?” Therapists track each session
carefully so there is data to demonstrate
the child’s progress, as well as identify which
parts of the program are most effective and
which parts should be adjusted.
A Happier Family Life
Long-term, intensive ABA therapy can
not only build the foundation for a child to
achieve his or her full potential. It can also
improve life for the entire family. A child
who is having frequent meltdowns, running
away or destroying things is disruptive. These
experiences are especially painful for parents.
They can see that their child is overwhelmed
and frustrated, but they do not know how to
comfort him or her. Intensive ABA therapy
can help the child learn to communicate,
which reduces frustration and the difficult behavior
it fuels. Fewer meltdowns make family
life smoother and easier. A child who is reliably
toilet trained can go to his sister’s soccer
game with the rest of the family. A child who
can sit still for 20 minutes can attend holiday
celebrations. A child who can dress herself lets
a parent help a sibling or relax for 10 minutes.
A Worthwhile Investment
The most important reason Applied Behavior
Analysis is so often recommended for
children with autism is the wealth of scientific
research proving its effectiveness. Research
also shows that intensive therapy helps children
make the greatest progress. Parents who
are considering ABA may be intimidated by
20 to 30 hours of therapy each week. After
further experience, most parents find that
ABA is more than worth the time. It is an
investment in giving their child critical communication,
behavior and social skills. ABA
therapy strengthens family life and teaches
parents how to help their child. Above all,
parents realize that intensive ABA therapy is
an ongoing investment in their child’s ability
to be more independent and achieve his or
her full potential.
To learn more or get started on your child’s
ABA journey call Invo Behavior and Therapy
Services at 800.356.4049 or go to
invotherapies.com.
Tampa Bay — Winter/Spring 2019-20 21
/invotherapies.com
