Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is the science of behaviour and how we learn. This refers to principles which affect behaviour change and how the environment affects behaviour.

ABA therapy is an evidence-based approach for increasing socially significant behaviours and decreasing those behaviours which disrupt everyday life, and prevent individuals from participating in activities that are meaningful to them.

By breaking down big goals and complex skills into simple and manageable steps, ABA therapy helps make certain skills accessibleto those who were struggling to learn them. ABA therapy is systematic and data driven. The therapy team collects data on the skill in which they are trying to improve in order to know if their teaching is working. This allows us to make changes quickly if an intervention is not helping.

At Connections Behaviour Consulting, we view all behaviour as communication. When a child is engaging in challenging behaviour, such as aggression or tantrums, the behaviour analytic approach is to figure out why. When we know what message a child is sending by engaging in this behaviour, we can modify their environment so they are less likely to resort to challenging behaviour, give them the support they need and provide them with alternative methods of communication.

This depends on their goals! Your child's needs, the complexity of their behaviour and what works best for your family will all affect how many hours of therapy your child participates in per week. Some children may thrive with fewer hours per week, while others require a higher intensity to reach their goals.

Yes! Collaboration across environments and individuals is key for your child's success. We are always happy to collaborate with schools and other service provides (e.g. occupational therapists or speech-language pathologists) to ensure that your child is getting the best care possible.