Will my Child need ABA Therapy in Preschool

You may know by now that ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is the gold standard therapy for children with autism. What you might be wondering is, “When should my child begin ABA therapy?” If you are considering whether or not to include ABA therapy as part of your child’s preschool year, read on for some perspective as you make this big decision.

Preschool Prerequisite Skills

First, keep in mind some of the many skills a child needs for preschool. This includes (but is not limited to):

●    Sitting in a group setting

●    Giving attention to the speaker

●    Following directions

●    Waiting turns/sharing

●    Communicating needs

●    Using the restroom independently

●    Washing one’s hands

ABA therapy is focused on building a child’s social skills, communication skills, daily living skills, and even leisure skills. As you can see above, all of these areas will be put to the test in the preschool setting. If your child with autism has trouble with some of these skills, they may need the added support of ABA therapy in order for preschool to be a beneficial experience and not a frustrating one.

Before Making Your Decision

Here are a few more things you may want to do or consider before making a decision concerning ABA therapy during preschool:

●    Ask the preschool(s) you are considering what skills they require a child to have before starting preschool.

●    Then, if your child has already had an ABA evaluation, consult with your ABA professional—which skills is your child proficient in, and which will require support for your child to be successful in preschool?

●    What goals will your child work on in therapy, and would the preschool setting be an appropriate setting to work on those goals?

●    Make sure the company you plan to work with for ABA therapy is willing and able to provide services at the preschool location.

●    In the same way, check with the preschool to make sure that they allow outside therapists to provide services on their campus.

●    Finally, inquire with your insurance about whether they cover therapy in the school setting.

In short, don’t feel like you have to make this decision alone. As always, share your questions or concerns with your child’s therapist, pediatrician, or other professionals as you make the choice you feel will be best for your child. 

Contact Positive Reinforcement today for in home ABA therapy, servicing North Virginia, West Virginia. Now providing  ABA Therapy Services in Richmond Virginia.