Communication is an essential skill for every child, but for children diagnosed with autism, it can sometimes be challenging. Many children on the autism spectrum experience language delays, difficulty with social communication, or non-verbal communication altogether. One of the most effective therapies for addressing communication difficulties in children with autism is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

ABA therapy is particularly beneficial for children with communication difficulties because it can be tailored to meet their individual needs. Whether a child is non-verbal, has language delays, or struggles with social communication, ABA offers practical, systematic strategies to improve their ability to communicate.

Here are some ways ABA can help!

1. Teaching Functional Communication Skills

For children who are non-verbal or have limited verbal skills, ABA therapy focuses on teaching functional communication skills that are practical and meaningful. This includes teaching children how to request things they want or need, express their feelings, and communicate with others.

Example:

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): This is a common ABA technique used with non-verbal children. PECS involves using pictures or symbols to communicate needs. For example, a child may use a picture of a cookie to request a snack. Over time, the child may move from using pictures to using more complex language or even verbal communication.

• Sign Language: In some cases, ABA therapists may incorporate simple sign language to help children communicate more effectively. Teaching a few basic signs, such as "more," "eat," or "help," can help children express their needs even before they develop verbal language skills.

2. Encouraging Language Development through Reinforcement

ABA uses positive reinforcement to encourage language development. When a child tries to communicate, whether through words, signs, or gestures, the therapist reinforces that behavior with praise or a tangible reward. This encourages the child to continue trying and improving their communication skills.

Example:

• If a child says a word (even if it’s not perfectly pronounced), the therapist might provide immediate praise and a small reward, such as a favorite toy or snack. The reinforcement motivates the child to repeat the behavior and continue using words to communicate.

• For children with language delays, ABA may start with simple words or phrases. For example, if a child says “ball” the therapist may reinforce that attempt with the opportunity to play with a ball, gradually expanding the vocabulary with additional words such as "throw the ball" or "catch the ball".

3. Teaching Social Communication Skills

In addition to helping with verbal language, ABA therapy also focuses on teaching social communication skills such as turn-taking, making eye contact, and understanding non-verbal cues. Children diagnosed with autism may struggle to understand the nuances of social interactions, but ABA therapy can help them navigate these situations through structured practice and reinforcement.

Example:

• Turn-taking games: ABA therapists might engage children in simple turn-taking activities like playing with toys or games where they must wait for their turn. For example, a child may take turns rolling a ball back and forth with a therapist. This teaches both verbal and non-verbal social skills, like waiting, looking at others, and using words to communicate.

• Role-playing scenarios: For children who have difficulty with conversational skills, therapists may use role-playing activities to teach social greetings (e.g. “Hello” and “How are you?”) or how to engage in a conversation. These activities are often repetitive, helping the child internalize appropriate social communication skills.

4. Using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Some children may need more support in their communication development, and in these cases, ABA therapy may incorporate Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools. These can be low-tech (like picture boards) or high-tech (like speech-generating devices or apps). AAC tools help children who have difficulty with speech to communicate effectively.

Example:

• Speech-generating devices (SGDs): Devices that allow children to press buttons with pictures or words, which the device then reads out loud. This method is especially useful for children who are non-verbal or have limited speech but can comprehend language and understand the concept of communication.

• Tablet-based communication apps: Some ABA therapists use tablet-based apps that allow children to communicate by selecting pictures, symbols, or words from a screen. Apps like Proloquo2Go or LAMP Words for Life are popular AAC tools that help children form sentences and express themselves.

5. Reducing Communication Barriers and Frustration

Communication difficulties can lead to frustration and challenging behaviors, especially if a child cannot effectively express their needs or feelings. ABA therapy addresses this by teaching children how to communicate in ways that reduce frustration and prevent behavioral outbursts.

Example:

• Functional Communication Training (FCT): If a child frequently engages in behaviors like screaming or hitting when they want something, ABA therapists can teach the child a more appropriate way to request things. This could involve using words, signs, or a communication device. By reinforcing the use of functional communication instead of challenging behaviors, ABA reduces frustration and helps the child feel understood.

6. Structured, Predictable Communication Environment

Children with autism often benefit from structured, predictable environments. ABA therapy emphasizes consistency in communication strategies, routines, and expectations. This helps children feel more comfortable and confident as they practice new communication skills.

Example:

• Visual schedules: Many children with autism thrive on predictability. ABA therapists often use visual schedules to help children understand what to expect throughout the day. These schedules can include pictures or symbols that represent different activities (e.g., snack time, play time, therapy time), helping children understand the sequence of events and feel more at ease during transitions.

A huge part of successful ABA Therapy involves continuing the techniques at home. Here are some simple ways to incorporate communication into your daily routines.  

1. Reinforce Communication Attempts: Whenever your child attempts to communicate, praise and reward them for their efforts. Whether they use words, signs, or gestures, positive reinforcement encourages more attempts.

2. Use Simple, Clear Language: Keep your language simple and clear. Children with communication difficulties often benefit from hearing words or instructions that are short and easy to understand.

3. Create Opportunities for Communication: Set up situations where your child must communicate to get what they want. For example, place a favorite toy out of reach, prompting your child to ask for it.

4. Model Social Interaction: Engage in simple turn-taking games with your child, and model appropriate language and social behaviors. For example, when playing a game, say, “Your turn!” or “I’m going to roll the ball now,” and encourage your child to imitate the action.

5. Use Visual Supports: Picture schedules, visual cues, and social stories are helpful for children with communication difficulties. These supports can guide them through activities and help them understand concepts they may have trouble processing through words alone.

To find out more about ABA Therapy or schedule your consultation, visit us at Sunshine ABA or feel free to call us at (407) 907-2077 or (912) 667-8730. We service Polk and Lake Counties in Florida and the surrounding area of Fort Stewart, GA.

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