Illinois Valley Autism Center provides year around Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
ABA is widely recognized as the single most effective
treatment for children with autism and the only treatment shown to lead
to substantial, lasting improvements in the lives of individuals with
autism.
Applied Behavior Analysis is a term readily addressed
when parents are searching for resources but it isn't always fully defined. ABA is a scientific approach in which principles of the analysis of behavior are applied systematically to improve significant behavior and is used to identify the variables responsible for change in behavior. To clarify, ABA applies techniques and principles to increase appropriate
behaviors while decreasing those that are harmful or that interfere with
learning. It involves breaking down tasks into small steps and teaching
them diligently in a reinforcing manner until they become mastered. ABA is a comprehensive way of teaching and not an additional tool to be used periodically as in an eclectic program. Its principles takes years to learn and should only be implemented by highly trained
professionals such as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Studies have demonstrated that many children with autism experience significant improvements in learning, reasoning, communication and adaptability when they participate in high-quality ABA Programs. Some preschoolers who participate in early intensive ABA for two or more years acquire sufficient skills to participate in regular classrooms with little or no additional support. Other children learn many important skills but still need additional educational support to succeed in a classroom. In some studies, researchers compared intensive ABA with less intensive ABA and/or other early intervention or special education programs for children with autism. Generally, they found that children that receive intensive ABA treatment make larger improvements in more skill areas than do children who participate in other interventions.
We provide ABA in the natural environment and at the
table. The natural environment is
usually provided in our larger rooms where we have a swing and a jump castle
along with numerous toys, board games and activities. It is important to us that the child is
having fun while he or she is learning new skills.
We encourage anyone whose child is affected by autism or
other developmental disabilities to strongly consider this evidence based
therapy. To help you better understand
we would be happy to provide you with a no obligation consultation and a tour
of the center.
Communication & Language
Play & Leisure
Fine & Gross Motor
School Readiness & Academic
Everyday Community Skills
Self Help
Following Direction & Routine
Changing from Routines
Tolerating Novel Activities including Sensory Difficulties
