Support for a child with autism (ABA therapy)
ABA therapy · applied behavior analysis · autism therapy sessions · early help for autism
These are sessions where a child is taught new skills step by step: communicating, playing, taking care of themselves. The child is praised and rewarded for each success.
For children with autism spectrum disorder, especially at an early age.
⏱ Duration: sessions usually take a few hours a week; the course lasts months to years
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- List. Write down your child's favorite toys and treats. They will be needed in sessions.
- Routine. Plan sessions for when your child is rested and has eaten.
- Getting ready. If a new place is hard for your child, show them a photo of the room or the specialist beforehand.
What to bring
- Doctors' reports
- Favorite toys and treats
- A change of clothes
- Water
How it goes
- The specialist meets your child and watches them
- Assesses which skills are there and which are missing
- Sets goals together with you
- In sessions, teaches skills in small steps
- Rewards your child for each success
- Teaches you to practice the skills at home
What you'll feel
- At first it may be hard and unfamiliar for your child
- There may be protests and tears, and the specialist knows how to work with that
Afterwards
- Practice the skills at home using the specialist's advice
- Note what has changed and tell the specialist at sessions
- Take care of yourself too, since parents also need rest and support
Contact a doctor straight away if
- If your child hurts themselves or others, talk to your doctor and the specialist
- A sudden loss of skills they already had: see a doctor
Common questions
How many hours a week are needed?
It varies, and it is often many hours. The specialist will set the load to fit your child.
Will this cure autism?
Autism does not go away. But sessions help a child become more independent and communicate more easily.