Tag Archives: ABA Therapy

The A-Word, Part 47: 4th Birthday, Scripting, and Echolalia

Jack

Jack Riley is now 4 years old. A lot has changed in the last few years. He’s a lot more verbal than he used to be, but occasionally his language isn’t functional. Today he keeps scripting the same phrase while he’s doing tasks like unwrapping his birthday present, or playing with his toys. Echolalia is fairly common with kids with autism spectrum disorder because it’s a self-stimulatory behavior and is intrinsically reinforcing. The behavior comforts, and helps regulate themselves no differently than body rocking or hand flapping; it’s just a different form of stereotypical behavior.

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ABA for Autism: Take Action Now!

Autism parents, experts and activists, encourage everyone to sign the petition asking Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to clarify the essential health benefits to include ABA for Autism! This small clarification can open a world of possibilities for children with Autism. Learn how you can make your own infinity ribbon to tell the world that with ABA, the possibilities are infinite!

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NEW New York Law Requires Insurance Companies to Cover Cost of Autism Therapy

WHEC TV speaks with Center for Autism and Related Disorders about the effects of the New York law that now requires insurance companies to cover the cost of autism therapy.

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The A-Word, Part 45: Statement Statement And Sequences

Riley

A lot of Jack Riley’s program are is about getting him to socialize with his peers. Jessica is working on a program with him called “statement-statement” which has him practicing making a statement after he hears someone else make one. For example Cheryl says, ” I am laying on the floor.” Jack Riley then responds, “I am playing.”

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The A-Word Autism, Part 44: Constructive Play And Functional Pretend Play

Playing is learning. With constructive play, a child learns how to imitate others, and to use their imagination to generate structures. With functional pretend play, the child is givenan opportunity to practice using items appropriately and to work on his conversation skills by having him narrate his actions.

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Boo!-ks

Books

Books are a wonderful way to introduce the new concepts and vocabulary related to holidays. Here are some Halloween books that can be integrated into your child’s ABA program.

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The A-Word, Autism Part 43: Preschool And IEP Meeting

Jack Riley began preschool this year which has been a challenging adjustment for the family. On top of the stress of starting school, the family had an IEP meeting. Typically an IEP meeting happens annually after the child’s birthday, but this year they are having two meetings.

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Trick-Or-Treat!

Trick or Treat

Halloween is around the corner! One of my favorite Halloween activities is practice trick-or-treat. This can be as simple or elaborate as you like. All you really need is a door, a bag and a treat, but it might be fun to incorporate dress-up clothes or have a Halloween dress rehearsal.

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What It Takes to Be A CARD Therapist

Therapist

The first thing I’ll say is that it takes more than just a degree to be a CARD therapist. The qualities required of a successful clinician involve more than what can be summed up under education and experience on a resume.

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We’re Having An Open House In The Windy City

Chicago

CARD Chicago is so excited to be hosting an open house for new clients this November! For the first time in nearly 5 years, the Chicago office no longer has a waitlist. Our office has been growing, and we’ve finally reached a capacity of qualified clinicians to help more families affected by autism!

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