Written by: Cydney Baldwin, M.A. ABA., BCBA, LBA
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is recognized by the American Psychological Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the U.S. Surgeon General as the gold standard treatment for autism spectrum disorder. It is important for parents to recognize their vital role they play in ensuring their child’s long-term success in ABA therapy. Research has shown active participation in ABA parent training has a positive effect on increasing parent self-confidence and effective parenting skills and reducing parenting stress; thus, leading to holistic improvements for both the child receiving treatment and overall family. Below are some key components emphasizing the importance of active parent participation in ABA therapy.
1. Consistency: Children with autism thrive on routine and predictability. Parent training provided within ABA ensures the same interventions are used across all relevant environments. This consistency helps children feel secure and promotes effective learning.
2. Generalization: ABA therapy aims to equip children with skills that extend beyond the therapy room. Active parental participation helps children apply what they learn in therapy to the outside world, thus enhancing the child’s ability to adapt and function in a variety of situations.
3. Skill Maintenance and Retention: Children with autism can lose skills if not provided frequent opportunities to apply what they have learned; therefore, it is essential for parents to provide regular opportunities for their child to utilize these skills and ensure the progress made in therapy is sustained over time.
4. Enriched Child-Parent Relationship: When parents are involved in their child’s therapy and apply ABA strategies in everyday situations, they will not only see behavioral improvements within their child, but also gain deeper insights into their child’s unique needs and strengths. This understanding fosters a nurturing environment filled with empathy and encouragement, which can significantly enhance the child’s emotional and social development.
In summary, ABA therapy is not just for the child receiving the treatment. It is designed for everyone who is involved in the receiving child’s life, including immediate and extended family members, babysitters, teachers, etc. Through participating in ABA parent training, parents are equipped with the individualized tools and strategies necessary to better support their child in their development and learning; thus, leading to benefits for the whole family.
About the author: Cydney is a Board Certified and NC Licensed Behavior Analyst. She graduated from Ball State University with her M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis in July 2022. She started in the field of ABA in 2020 as an RBT. Her favorite part of being a BCBA and working in the ABA field is seeing her clients acquire new skills and collaborating with families.
