Should Educators Invest in ABA Training?
September 17, 2018 2023-08-18 20:47Should Educators Invest in ABA Training?
Should Educators Invest in ABA Training?
Should Educators Invest in ABA Training?
There’s no single, universal way to teach children with autism successfully. Treatment given to children is oftentimes as unique as the child itself, through one on one sessions, tailored lessons, and calm environments. It’s a time-consuming effort, but despite that, it’s only through dedication that, according to Ole Ivar Lovass, “ABA can help over 90% of children make substantial gains.”
Lovaas, a Norwegian-American clinical psychologist who is dubbed the grandfather of ABA, proved through intensive studies that with early intervention and behavioral therapy, children, regardless of where they fall on the Autism Spectrum, could achieve a 47% success higher, “indistinguishable” success rate than without therapy.
However, there are more children who are in need of services than are currently being served. Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is universally recognized as a safe and effective treatment for autism. So why aren’t educators becoming certified on a wider basis?
In the UAE, there is a law for provision of equal opportunities, however it is vague and poorly implemented. Most families must pay out of pocket for ABA services, as it is not covered by insurance. As a result, the system in place is failing the vast majority of children with autism or special needs.
Well-trained professionals with the relevant expertise in serving young children with behavioral or emotional (depression, anxiety, etc.) delays are in significant shortage. Such delays in early development end up negatively impacting early learning, social interactions, and the overall well being of what is estimated to be between 9% and 14% of children aged birth to five years old.
At A&BTi, we provide a variety of courses that cater to the needs of parents, caregivers, and educators; these courses come with a certificate. A&BTi is a registered Education Institute under KHDA (Knowledge & Human Development Authority).
Get into contact with us today at [email protected] if you’re interested in learning more!
Resources and references:
Lovaas, I. O. (1987). “Behavioral Treatment and Normal Educational and Intellectual Functioning in Young Autistic Children”. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology , 3-9.
National Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2008).
Mental health problems in early childhood can impair learning and behavior for life (Working Paper No. 6). http://developingchild.harvard.edu/index.php/library/reports_and_working_papers/working_papers/wp6/
Osofsky , J. D., & Lieberman. A. F. (2011). A call for integrating a mental health perspective into systems of care for abused and neglected infants and young children. American Psychologist, 66(2), 120–128. doi: 10.1037/a0021630
Brauner, C. B., & Stephen, B. C. (2006). Estimating the prevalence of early childhood serious emotional/behavioral disorder. Public Health Reports, 121, 303–310. http://www.publichealthreports.org/issueopen.cfm?articleID=1691
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services. (2010). Addressing the mental health needs of young children and their families.