The Foundational Rules of ABA

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Every parent of a child with autism will try punishment at one time or another and the single universal truth is that punishment does not work. Punishment strains the relationship between a parent and their child and adds nothing to their learning. 

In ABA, this positive relationship is referred to as "rapport". Whether referring to the relationship between a parent or a therapist, the first step of ABA is building this relationship. In the next step we will review how to improve rapport. The presence of the caregiver alone should be reinforcing. We will explain what this means in future entries.

Pushing a child too far too fast places strain on rapport. It also can cause temporary failure referred to in ABA as "ratio strain". Frequent delivery of reinforcement is very important. Excellent ABA delivery breaks skills down into the smallest possible parts to be on the child's level.

Be consistent with every behavior every time. Inconsistent follow through when placing a request will always worsen non-compliance and outbursts. Only place requests that you are willing to follow through with - Every. Single. Time.

A reinforcer is something that makes a behavior increase. We will fully explain reinforcers in the future, but the #1 key to reinforcers is that they are specific, dynamic, and unique to every child. Toys, snacks, or hugs have different reinforcement values for every child. Only deliver a reinforcer that a child truly wants - If they do not want it, it is not a reinforcer.