THE LOVAAS METHOD - ABA - Applied Behavioural Analysis

ABA is a style of teaching using a series of trials to shape a desired behavior or response. Skills are broken down to their simplest parts and then taught to the child through a system of reinforcement.

Prompts are given as needed when the child is learning a skill or refuses to comply. As the child begins to master a skill, the prompts are faded until the child can do the skill independently.

A high priority is making learning fun for the child. It is also critical that all skills taught first in one-on-one settings be generalized to everyday settings (e.g. in school and with other children).

The program works step by step to teach: language skills, social skills, play skills, fine motor skills, self help skills, as well as academic knowledge needed to successfully mainstream these children into normal classroom settings. The program teaches autistic children "to learn how to learn."

Why ABA ?
All of the studies indicate that early intensive (30+ hr. /wk) intervention greatly effects the outcome of the child and in some cases actually enables autistic individuals to function at a normal capacity when treatment is complete. Although most studies indicate the greatest gains are made the earlier the intervention is introduced (preferably before age 5), it has been demonstrated that children of all ages can make tremendous progress from an ABA type program. ABA is not a miracle cure for autism, but it is one of the best treatments that is currently available today to enable autistic individuals to reach their maximal potential.

Some of the advantages of the program are:

  • Home vs. Clinical setting (children learn and generalize better in their natural environment)
  • Step by step logical program
  • Tailored to meet individual child's needs
  • Can benefit all age groups
  • Improves about 90% of children
  • Brings undesirable behavior under control
  • Supported by research studies
  • Can be integrated into school settings
  • Parent control (parents know their child best)
  • Allows breaks for parents to fulfill other duties (work and other children)
  • Reduces the free time that autistic children can't organize (less stim time)
  • Teaches the child how to learn!

Recommended references

1. The book, "Let Me Hear Your Voice"* by Catherine Maurice

2. The book, " Behavioral Intervention for Young Children With Autism"* by Catherine Maurice, Gina Green & Stephen Luce*

3. The Nature of Things television program with Dr. David Suzuki (aired in Nov 96)