A communication goal can look successful on a session record while remaining difficult to use during an ordinary afternoon. Perhaps a child selects a message when prompted, but the device is elsewhere when they need it. Perhaps the request is clear, yet different adults respond in different ways. Understanding these gaps is an important part of functional communication training in ABA. Functional communication training, or FCT, teaches a communication response [...]

Autism is often described as a different way of processing information — and one of the most important concepts that helps explain this is bottom-up thinking. This approach to understanding the world is not about disorder or deficit; it’s about perception, detail, and pattern recognition. For parents, teachers, and beginning ABA professionals, understanding bottom-up thinking offers new insight into how autistic individuals interpret the world, make decisions, and experience learning [...]

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy begins with understanding where a child is — their strengths, needs, and the skills that require development. This understanding doesn’t come from guesswork; it comes from carefully designed ABA assessments. These assessments provide the roadmap for individualized therapy and progress tracking, ensuring every goal is based on objective, measurable data rather than assumptions or generalizations. For parents, these assessments can seem confusing at first — [...]

What Are ABA Prompts? Prompts are supports or cues used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help a child successfully perform a skill or behavior. They act like stepping stones—temporary assistance that guides the learner toward independence. Without prompts, some children may struggle to understand what is expected or how to complete a task. With prompts, skills can be taught step by step until the child is ready to perform [...]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) shapes not only how individuals process the world around them, but also how they communicate. One unique and sometimes misunderstood communication style is “info dumping.” Many autistic children and adults are passionate about their interests and want to share their knowledge in depth—sometimes all at once. For families, therapists, and educators, understanding info dumping can foster better communication, strengthen relationships, and celebrate neurodiverse strengths. What Is [...]

Elopement, also known as wandering or bolting, is a serious safety concern for many families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Elopement refers to a child leaving a safe area or supervised setting unexpectedly, often without notice and sometimes traveling significant distances. While all children may wander at times, elopement in autistic children tends to be more frequent, impulsive, and dangerous, creating significant stress for families and educators. Understanding [...]

Supporting children with autism in managing their emotions and behaviors is a cornerstone of effective Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Emotional regulation skills help children cope with stress, transitions, and daily challenges. Two key concepts in this area are co-regulation and self-regulation. While closely connected, each plays a unique role in development and long-term independence. Understanding the difference—and how to support both—empowers families, therapists, and educators to help children reach [...]

What Is ABA Prompt Fading? Prompt fading is a fundamental strategy in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy that supports children with autism as they learn new skills or behaviors. The core goal of prompt fading is to help children become more independent by systematically reducing the level of assistance or cues provided during learning tasks. In ABA, prompts are temporary supports—such as verbal instructions, physical guidance, or visual cues—that help [...]

What Are Cognitive Behavioral Interventions? Cognitive Behavioral Interventions (CBI) are structured, evidence-based therapeutic strategies that help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Grounded in the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), CBI focuses on teaching coping skills, emotional regulation, and social problem-solving by linking thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. While CBT was originally developed for neurotypical individuals, CBI has been adapted to support children with autism spectrum disorder [...]

What Is PECS? The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a structured communication tool designed to help individuals with limited or no verbal communication develop meaningful ways to express themselves. PECS uses visual symbols—typically laminated pictures or icons—to teach children how to initiate communication and make requests. This system is widely used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs, classrooms, and therapy sessions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PECS [...]

What Is Response Interruption and Redirection? Response Interruption and Redirection (RIR or RIRD) is a behavior reduction technique commonly used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. It involves interrupting an undesirable or inappropriate behavior—often repetitive or self-stimulatory—and immediately redirecting the individual to engage in a more appropriate, functional behavior. This strategy is especially effective for managing behaviors that interfere with learning and social interaction, such as vocal stereotypy, repetitive motor [...]

What is Restraint Collapse? Restraint collapse, sometimes referred to as after-school restraint collapse, describes a phenomenon where a child who has maintained self-control throughout the day suddenly experiences an emotional or behavioral release once they return to a familiar and safe environment. This is particularly common in children with autism, who often struggle with emotional regulation, sensory overload, and social expectations. During the school day, a child may suppress their [...]