How do we Select Goals?

Using evidence based naturalistic approach, goals and activities will be provided based on the child’s individual strengths and needs, as well as the child’s IPP. The services will focus on behavior reduction and associated skill goals. In addition, skill acquisition goals will be selected in alignment with one or more evidence and research-based assessment tools, such as:

Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP)
Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills Revised (The ABLLS-R)
Assessment of Functional Living Skills (AFLS)
California Preschool Learning Foundations
AIM (Accept - Identify - Move)
The Preschool Life Skills (PLS)

Caregiver Behavior Consultation will be based on the child’s goals, as well as assessment of caregiver’s ABA knowledge using scientific parent training assessments, such as ACHIEVE which objectively measures and evaluates parents’ understanding and application of fundamental ABA skills.

Basic Learner Skills

Skills such as visual performance, motor imitation, labeling, play and leisure skills and social interaction skills are a part of the basic learner skill set. If these skills are not yet mastered or practice, the student may struggle with academia-based and routine goals. Pre-requisite skills that a child needs to be able to learn in a natural environment and to be able to interact with peers.

Communication

Functional communication helps children come in contact with their reinforcers. This is demonstrated by their ability to present their requests and thoughts to receive a response. Functional communication is not limited to verbal speech; it may include gestures, sign language, vocalization, AAC devices, or pictures.

Self-Help & Adaptive Skills

Self-Help and adaptive skills promote the child’s independence and maintains their dignity. In addition, those skills help promote healthier habits.

Cognitive, Social, & Emotional Skills

Cognitive development is the ability to learn, think, and problem solve.
Social-Emotional Development is the ability to interact, self-soothe, associate and actively engage with others. These skills are essential for children with autism as they provide a toolkit for effectively handling the unique challenges, they may face using problem-solving skills and cognitive skills to promote their interactions and relationships with adults and other children.

Problem Behavior Reduction

Problem behaviors occur for several reasons, most common of which is failure to communicate. To reduce problem behaviors, replacement behaviors must be taught. To identify and plan for this process, a functional behavior assessment (FBA) should be conducted over several sittings. This will include parent interviews, observations, and probing.