Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen dive into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), exploring its evolution from Ivar Lovaas's pioneering work to modern practices. They address common myths and criticisms while sharing personal experiences of how ABA transformed their families. From potty training to turn-taking and communication skills, the hosts explain why ABA remains a cornerstone therapy for autistic children, how it's covered by insurance, and practical strategies for finding quality providers despite challenges from private equity investment.
Key Takeaways
- ABA has evolved significantly and no longer uses aversive techniques—modern ABA focuses entirely on positive reinforcement
- The antecedent-behavior-consequence framework helps parents understand what drives their child's behaviors
- ABA is covered by most state-regulated insurance plans, including child-only plans purchased through state exchanges
- Finding a local ABA clinic with an on-site BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is preferable to large corporate chains
- ABA isn't bribing—it uses temporary external motivators until natural consequences become rewarding
- Turn-taking, communication skills, and other social abilities that develop naturally in some children may require years of ABA intervention for autistic children
- Parents should practice skills learned in ABA sessions at home to reinforce progress
- The criticism that ABA makes children "less autistic" is fundamentally impossible—ABA helps children reach their full potential
- Quality ABA looks like play but involves methodical skill-building based on your child's unique interests and currency
- Social media movements opposing ABA often suggest alternatives that are actually ABA techniques with different terminology
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