Starling Therapies

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based practise used for teaching children and young adults with autism and other developmental delays. This approach is based on behaviourist theories, which simply state that desired behaviours can be taught through a system of rewards and consequences.


 Teaching children by using ABA principles and procedures generally involves replacing challenging behaviours with socially appropriate one as well as teaching academic and life skills. For example, ABA may be used to reduce outbursts and tantrums, to teach a child to use words to make requests, or to wait for her turn in the playground. ABA can also be used to teach simple and complex skills. For example, it can be used to reward a child for brushing his teeth correctly or for sharing a toy with a friend. 

Therapy Includes:

✓ Developing communication using vocal or sign language. An example of this is teaching a child to request items

✓ Teaching play skills

✓ Teaching language skills such as listener responding

✓ Building social skills, such as initiating conversation with other children

✓ Teaching independent living skills (self-help). Examples include toilet training, teeth brushing and dressing

✓ Improving students’ performance skills such as reading, writing, maths and spelling

✓ Training parents and siblings to be actively involved in the teaching program

Initial consultation and assessment


The first step is to get in touch with us to arrange a visit to your home or school. This is a chance for us to meet you and your child, get familiar with their environment, and discuss your concerns and priorities.


 Next, we will conduct either a VB-MAPP Verbal Behaviour Milestones Assessment & Placement Program (VB-MAPP, Sundberg, 2008) or ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills). This allows us to assess your child’s abilities and skill level, as well as any barriers to learning and behavioural difficulties. This usually takes 3-6 hours and will consist of direct and indirect observation, as well as direct work with the child. 


The information we gather in this session will help us to create a tailored intervention plan for your child. 


Program development


The next step will be developing a unique treatment plan. The plan focuses on developing deficit areas such as speech and language, play, social and academic skills. We will also set targets for essential living skills like daily activities and self-care, and find ways to engage parents and siblings in the therapy, so that each child has a better chance of learning and responding to the treatment by reaching their highest potential.


Progress monitoring


The process relies on ongoing assessment and communication with parents by regularly evaluating the child’s progress and adjusting treatment plans to support a smooth transition to more advanced levels of the skills.

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