Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

At its core, ABA is all about imitation and repetition of specific behaviors through reinforcements, commonly known as rewards.  This teaching method is based on the idea that appropriate speech language, academics and life skills can be taught using scientific principles. ABA uses Discrete Trial Training (DTT), and Errorless Learning (EL) which are similar methods used in Verbal Behavior.  The Lovaas Approach is one of the most popular forms of ABA, but not all ABA follow his method.  ABA session depend on the need of the individual child and usually takes place at a table and uses rote, repetitive behavior to attain results.  ABA can take place at home or school, but a board certified behavior analyst should supervise the therapy.

Related Sites

www.appliedbehavioralstrategies.com/what-is-aba.html  This website will provide you with what ABA is and the basics of the ABA method.
www.thelovaascenter.com/  This is the main webpage for the Lovaas Method of ABA for autism treatment.  You will be able to find information based on the findings of Dr. Ivar Lovaas.
http://autism.about.com/od/alllaboutaba/a/abaoverview.htm   A more in depth article of what ABA is and the pros and cons of using this therapy can be found at this web site.

Books

Behaviorspeak:  A Glossary of Terms in Applied Behavior Analysis (Volume 1) by Bobby Newman.
Description:  Behaviorspeak is a glossary of terms in common usage in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the autistic-spectrum disorders.  Deliberately written in a humorous and easily understood style, this will be an invaluable resource for parents and direct care service providers.  ABA is a technically precise discipline, where a misunderstanding of a term can lead to a misapplied technique.  Behaviorspeak will give readers the tools necessary to understand articles in professional journals, presentations, and books.

Activity Schedules for Children With Autism: Teaching Independent Behavior (Topics in Autism)  by Lynn E. McClannahan.
Description:  Appropriate for both parents and teachers, the guide explains how to teach a child to follow an activity schedule, select their own rewards, end an activity, and expand social interaction skills.  Originally published in 1999, this second edition adds a chapter on activity schedules for adults at home and at work.

The ABA Program Companion: Organizing Quality Programs for Children With Autism and PDD [Paperback]  by J. Tyler Fovel.
Description:  The book and CD were designed specifically as a resource for special educators, parents, and program coordinators in various stages of organizing and implementing their ABA programs.  Through clear language, illustrations, tables and real-life examples, the topics covered include basic ABA concepts; teaching formats; the principles, merits and clinical applications of discrete trials; incidental teaching; teaching language and social skills; inclusion; curriculum planning and evaluation, among many others.

Tools

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=cp_gzUTCm8g   This short video describes and shows what a Discrete Trail Training (DTT) session looks like.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=h5_zJIm1B_k   This brief two minute video provides definitions and examples of errorless learning.
http://www.aba-materials.com/   Many different teaching and educational materials for ABA are provided at this web site.

Parent Forums

(Some forums require you to sign in to Yahoo or Facebook to locate forum names.)
Forum Name:  ABA Therapy Ideas and Online Resources for Autism
https://www.facebook.com/ABAutism  This group shares ideas, activities, ABA methods, fun printable materials and support each other on this journey!
Forum Name:  ABA4Autism
https://www.facebook.com/ABA4AutismNH/info  This forum helps parents acquire the skills necessary to experience meaningful social connections, thrive in the community, and enjoy the world around them.