Commonly Asked Questions.
Why is early identification and intervention so important?
Early identification and access to necessary services and supports can significantly impact a child's quality of life. Within the first five years of life, a child's brain is forming hundreds of connections per second. Therefore, intervening later in life creates a challenge of positively impacting functional connections after they have been largely established. Providing appropriate supports and being responsive to a child's needs will create a strong foundation for future learning, behavior, and overall health.
What is ABA therapy?
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the application of the principles of learning. It is a branch of behavior analysis, another branch being 'experimental analysis of behavior.' Although ABA has become somewhat synonymous with autism, its principles can be used within a number of fields including education, sports, psychology, job safety, health, business, animal training, etc. Applied behavior analysis has over 50 years of empirical research to support the effectiveness of its science. In regards to ABA therapy, Behavior Analysts implement evidence-based practices to discover environmental variables that reliably influence socially significant behavior. Put simply, the job of a behavior analyst is to teach important life skills, while decreasing any challenging behaviors that may impede learning.
Will behavioral intervention turn my child into a robot?
Not all ABA programs are created equally. It is important for families to do their homework and ensure their needs will be met by competent and dedicated professionals. Some characteristics of an effective ABA program include assessments, precise data collection, evidence-based practices, tailored to individual needs, and most importantly incorporate the child's strengths and interests.
How important is consistency among family members?
Consider a parent who is consistent "most of the time," but occasionally gives in to tantrum behavior. The challenging behavior will likely be present in the future because the behavior has been met with reinforcement. Consistency is key for successful outcomes across caregivers and settings, so be sure to set clear expectations, ensure everyone's on the same page, and follow through!
Can you provide guidance on how to help my child with special needs interact with their siblings?
Parents' attitudes and expectations greatly influence how a sibling of a child with special needs adjusts. Often times, those siblings develop a sense of responsibility, take pride in their brother or sister's successes, and develop a strong sense of loyalty. However, some may develop negative feelings; for example, a sibling may feel envious of the extra attention provided to the child with autism. It is important for parents to spend quality time alone with their neurotypical child on a regular basis. In addition, it is important for parents to create a comfortable and safe environment for their children to ask questions and discuss their feelings (be sure to validate them). Siblings may also benefit from joining a support group for siblings of special needs children (Sicile-Kira, 2008).
Is my child a good fit for PSL's ABA Therapy program?
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to operate in the best interest of clients. For this reason, PSL will accept as clients only those individuals whose needs are commensurate with our education, training, expertise, available resources, and organizational policies. Our ABA program is designed to support children 5-18 years of age. At present, we are unable to support those individuals who present with significant needs and severe challenging behavior (i.e., severe harm to self or others), feeding/swallowing disorders, or sleep disorders; however, we are happy to assist families in finding appropriate supports.
Where can I expect to receive services?
PSL provides home-, school-, and community- based services.
Does PSL accept insurance?
Pinpoint+ Skills Lab is currently contracted with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
What is the Empowerment Scholarship Account Program?
ESA is an account administered by ADE that is funded by state tax dollars to provide educational options for qualified Arizona students. By opting out of the public school system, parents can seek a range of alternative educational services, such as private school or home-based education, to tailor an individualized educational plan that is best for their child. Please visit (http://www.azed.gov/esa/) for more information.
Early identification and access to necessary services and supports can significantly impact a child's quality of life. Within the first five years of life, a child's brain is forming hundreds of connections per second. Therefore, intervening later in life creates a challenge of positively impacting functional connections after they have been largely established. Providing appropriate supports and being responsive to a child's needs will create a strong foundation for future learning, behavior, and overall health.
What is ABA therapy?
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the application of the principles of learning. It is a branch of behavior analysis, another branch being 'experimental analysis of behavior.' Although ABA has become somewhat synonymous with autism, its principles can be used within a number of fields including education, sports, psychology, job safety, health, business, animal training, etc. Applied behavior analysis has over 50 years of empirical research to support the effectiveness of its science. In regards to ABA therapy, Behavior Analysts implement evidence-based practices to discover environmental variables that reliably influence socially significant behavior. Put simply, the job of a behavior analyst is to teach important life skills, while decreasing any challenging behaviors that may impede learning.
Will behavioral intervention turn my child into a robot?
Not all ABA programs are created equally. It is important for families to do their homework and ensure their needs will be met by competent and dedicated professionals. Some characteristics of an effective ABA program include assessments, precise data collection, evidence-based practices, tailored to individual needs, and most importantly incorporate the child's strengths and interests.
How important is consistency among family members?
Consider a parent who is consistent "most of the time," but occasionally gives in to tantrum behavior. The challenging behavior will likely be present in the future because the behavior has been met with reinforcement. Consistency is key for successful outcomes across caregivers and settings, so be sure to set clear expectations, ensure everyone's on the same page, and follow through!
Can you provide guidance on how to help my child with special needs interact with their siblings?
Parents' attitudes and expectations greatly influence how a sibling of a child with special needs adjusts. Often times, those siblings develop a sense of responsibility, take pride in their brother or sister's successes, and develop a strong sense of loyalty. However, some may develop negative feelings; for example, a sibling may feel envious of the extra attention provided to the child with autism. It is important for parents to spend quality time alone with their neurotypical child on a regular basis. In addition, it is important for parents to create a comfortable and safe environment for their children to ask questions and discuss their feelings (be sure to validate them). Siblings may also benefit from joining a support group for siblings of special needs children (Sicile-Kira, 2008).
Is my child a good fit for PSL's ABA Therapy program?
Behavior analysts have a responsibility to operate in the best interest of clients. For this reason, PSL will accept as clients only those individuals whose needs are commensurate with our education, training, expertise, available resources, and organizational policies. Our ABA program is designed to support children 5-18 years of age. At present, we are unable to support those individuals who present with significant needs and severe challenging behavior (i.e., severe harm to self or others), feeding/swallowing disorders, or sleep disorders; however, we are happy to assist families in finding appropriate supports.
Where can I expect to receive services?
PSL provides home-, school-, and community- based services.
Does PSL accept insurance?
Pinpoint+ Skills Lab is currently contracted with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
What is the Empowerment Scholarship Account Program?
ESA is an account administered by ADE that is funded by state tax dollars to provide educational options for qualified Arizona students. By opting out of the public school system, parents can seek a range of alternative educational services, such as private school or home-based education, to tailor an individualized educational plan that is best for their child. Please visit (http://www.azed.gov/esa/) for more information.
Have a question not answered above? Feel free to contact us at any time, we're happy to help!