Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is one of the most researched and effective treatment approaches for children with autism. But if you’re new to the process, it’s completely normal to wonder what ABA actually looks like day-to-day and how it helps your child grow. At Able Kids, we believe that empowering families begins with clear information. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to how ABA therapy works and what you can expect.
What Is ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy is a science-backed method that focuses on understanding behavior and teaching new skills through positive reinforcement. For children with autism, this can mean meaningful progress in communication, social skills, behavior management, and daily independence.
At Able Kids, our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) personalize every program to meet your child’s unique needs, strengths, and goals.
Step 1: Comprehensive Assessment and Goal Setting
Every ABA journey starts with learning about your child.
Initial Assessment
A BCBA will conduct a thorough evaluation that may include:
- Parent interviews
- Developmental history
- Play-based assessments
- Observation in natural environments
- Skill evaluations (communication, social behavior, adaptive skills, etc.)
This helps us understand where your child is thriving and where they may need support.
Personalized Treatment Plan
After completing the assessment, the BCBA creates a customized ABA program. This plan includes:
- Specific, measurable goals
- Strategies for teaching skills
- Behavior-support interventions
- Parent training recommendations
The result? A roadmap built just for your child.
Step 2: One-on-One Therapy Sessions
Once the plan is in place, your child begins working with trained RBTs under BCBA supervision.
What Sessions Look Like
Therapy may include:
- Structured teaching at a table
- Natural Environment Teaching (NET) through play
- Modeling and prompting
- Positive reinforcement (praise, toys, activities)
Sessions are tailored to your child’s learning style and are designed to build confidence as well as skills.
Step 3: Teaching New Skills Through Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the heart of ABA therapy. When a child practices a desired behavior and receives something motivating in return, they’re more likely to repeat that behavior.
ABA Can Help Improve:
- Communication and language
- Social interactions
- Emotional regulation
- Self-help skills (dressing, brushing teeth, feeding)
- Problem-solving
- School-readiness skills
- Reduction of challenging behaviors
At Able Kids, we make learning fun, meaningful, and encouraging.
Step 4: Consistent Data Collection and Progress Monitoring
ABA therapy is data-driven. During each session, RBTs record how your child responds to goals and activities. This allows the BCBA to monitor progress closely and make adjustments as needed.
Why Data Matters
- Ensures the program is working
- Helps identify patterns
- Allows for timely changes
- Keeps parents informed and involved
You’ll receive regular updates so you always know how your child is progressing.
Step 5: Parent Training and Family Support
Children make the biggest gains when therapy continues outside of scheduled sessions. That’s why ABA at Able Kids includes ongoing parent training.
Parent Training Helps You:
- Understand ABA strategies
- Respond effectively to behaviors
- Encourage skill development at home
- Create consistent routines
- Feel empowered in your child’s growth
Our team partners with you every step of the way.
Step 6: Generalization and Real-World Application
Learning a new skill in therapy is just the beginning. We want your child to use those skills everywhere—at home, school, and in the community.
ABA programs include:
- Practicing skills in different environments
- Working with new people
- Gradual increases in independence
- Real-life scenarios (playdates, outings, routines)
The goal is long-term success, not just success in therapy.
Step 7: Ongoing Evaluation and Evolving Goals
Children grow, and their needs change, and in turn, ABA programs evolve too. Your BCBA regularly updates your child’s goals to match their progress and developmental stage.
This ensures therapy stays relevant, effective, and aligned with your child’s potential.
Why Families Choose Able Kids for ABA Therapy
At Able Kids, we are committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care that helps children thrive. Families choose us because we offer:
- Board Certified Behavior Analysts with specialized training
- Play-based, child-centered therapy
- Personalized programs tailored to each child
- Clear communication and family support
- A collaborative, nurturing environment
Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and shine, and we’re honored to be part of that journey.