Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach that helps children with
autism and other developmental challenges learn new skills, reduce problematic behaviors,
and improve overall functioning. As a parent, understanding a few key ABA strategies can
enhance your child’s development and create a supportive home environment. Here are the
top 5 ABA strategies every parent should know.
1 Positive Reinforcement: Strengthening Desired Behavior
Provide a reward or praise when your child engages in a desired behavior to increase the
likelihood it will occur again.
How to Use It at Home:
How to Use It at Home:
- Identify reinforcers (toys, activities, praise).
- Give rewards immediately after the behavior.
- Be consistent, then move to intermittent reinforcement.
Example: Praise and give a small treat when your child puts toys away.
2 Prompting: Helping Your Child Learn New Skills
Provide cues or guidance to help your child perform a task correctly, then gradually reduce
support.
How to Use It at Home:
How to Use It at Home:
- Verbal: “Say please.”
- Physical: Guide their hand.
- Visual: Pictures or schedules.
- Fade prompts over time to encourage independence.
3 Task Analysis: Breaking Down Complex Skills
Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to help your child master them one at a time.
How to Use It at Home:
How to Use It at Home:
- Identify the skill (e.g., making a sandwich).
- Break it into steps (bread, spread peanut butter, add jelly).
- Teach step-by-step with prompts and reinforcement.
- Use chaining (forward or backward) to build mastery.
4 Behavioral Momentum: Encouraging Positive Action with Easy Tasks
Start with simple tasks your child can do, then move to harder ones.
How to Use It at Home:
- Begin with easy requests (“Pick up your toy”).
- Gradually increase difficulty (homework, chores).
- Reinforce after each success to build momentum.
5 Redirection: Shifting Attention to Positive Activities
Guide attention away from undesirable behaviors to positive ones.
How to Use It at Home:
- Stay calm.
- Offer a choice or alternative activity.
- Be consistent and praise when they transition.
