Early childhood is a period of tremendous physical, emotional, and cognitive development. This developmental window is considerably more important for kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For children with autism, research has repeatedly demonstrated that early intervention improves long-term results, particularly when services like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy are implemented during the formative years.
Our goal at Empower Autism Omaha is to provide a strong foundation for future success through early intervention. Through customized, in-home ABA therapy, we help kids and families by helping them acquire vital skills that will help them learn and be independent throughout their lives, not just in kindergarten.
Early Intervention: What Is It?
The services and assistance given to young children- typically from birth to age 3- who have developmental delays or impairments are referred to as early intervention. Early intervention for autistic children can begin as early as 18 months of age, and in certain cases, younger if signs are identified and assessed quickly.
These programs are intended to assist kids in reaching developmental milestones, enhancing social skills, communication, and minimizing behaviors that impede learning and day-to-day functioning. Not only can early intervention help the kid, but it also gives parents and other caregivers useful resources to help their child grow both at home and in the community.
ABA Therapy: Why Use It?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most extensively studied and scientifically supported methods for helping kids with autism. Understanding behavior and how the environment influences it is the main goal of ABA therapy. It increases beneficial behaviors and decreases potentially disruptive or dangerous ones through systematic instruction and positive reinforcement.
Our Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) at Empower Autism Omaha develop individualized strategies based on the needs and strengths of each child. Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) implement these programs in the child’s natural setting, which is typically their home.
Developing Skills for Kindergarten Readiness
Any child may find the move to kindergarten intimidating, but without the proper assistance, it may be especially difficult for kids with autism. ABA-assisted early intervention helps kids develop the fundamental abilities needed for a more seamless transition.
The following are some of the main areas we concentrate on:
1. Language and Communication Development
Both expressive and receptive language are frequently problematic for kids with autism. Structured activities that promote verbal expression, nonverbal communication, following directions, and having basic conversations are used in ABA therapy to target these skills. A child’s capacity to learn and interact with others in a classroom can be significantly enhanced by even modest improvements in communication.
2. Interaction with Peers and Social Skills
A key component of being prepared for kindergarten is learning how to communicate with adults and peers. Children who participate in our ABA programs learn social skills such as sharing toys, taking turns, making eye contact, responding to greetings, and recognizing social cues. Children that possess these abilities gain self-assurance and become more at ease in group learning settings.
3. Emotional control and self-control
Children in kindergarten classes must be able to control their emotions, sit for extended periods of time, and follow rules. By teaching coping skills like deep breathing, asking for breaks, or employing self-calming techniques when upset or overwhelmed, ABA therapy promotes emotional regulation. This lessens the possibility of tantrums or disruptive behaviors and allows kids to engage more completely in planned activities.
4. **Daily Living and Adaptive Skills
Kindergarten involves a certain amount of freedom in addition to academics. Daily living skills are crucial for anything from hand washing and lunch preparation to storing supplies and handling transitions. ABA therapy can help prepare children for these routines ahead of time by practicing them during sessions, so they feel confident and ready when school begins.
5. Adhering to Classroom Procedures and Instructions
Our therapists focus on teaching kids how to stay focused, follow multi-step directions, and switch between activities. These abilities make kids feel more competent and self-assured when they start school by reflecting standard classroom procedures and expectations.
Family Involvement: An Essential Component
At Empower Autism Omaha, we place a strong focus on parent and caregiver participation, and they are involved at every stage of their child’s therapy journey. To do this, we provide parent coaching so that the techniques we use and the skills we teach during sessions can carry over to the child’s natural environment and life outside of sessions.
This collaborative, team approach allows us to overcome obstacles to help the child progress in his/her goals more quickly. Early intervention also helps families feel less stressed and anxious, which gives them the confidence to speak out for their child and provide them the support they need.
Benefits of Early Intervention in the Long Run
Early ABA therapy frequently results in notable improvements in a child’s behavior, language, social skills, and academic readiness. Even though autism is a lifelong condition, early intervention can lead to more inclusive educational alternatives and less need for extensive help later in life.
Some kids who get early ABA help could even be able to attend regular classes with little help, which paves the way for future academic achievement and social integration.
Every child should have the best start in life. Early intervention is not only beneficial, but crucial for kids with autism. Our goal at Empower Autism Omaha is to use ABA therapy to provide kids the skills they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. We help children grow, families feel supported, and futures seem better by providing individualized, compassionate care.
We can assist you in determining whether ABA therapy is appropriate for your child. Reach out to schedule a free consultation and learn how Empower Autism Omaha can support your child’s growth and well-being.