Parents
What you need to know…
Ontario Autism Program
A provincial initiative providing needs‑based funding (between $6,600–$65,000) for children under 18 with a professional autism diagnosis who live in Ontario. Funding is delivered via local service providers and can be used for early years supports, core clinical services, school-transition programs, family foundations, and urgent-response supports .
AccessOAP
An independent organization to help families registered in the Ontario Autism Program. Be sure to get your child registered and access the services you need to best support your child’s overall development.
Registered Behaviour Analysts
Behaviour Analysts are now regulated in Ontario and are part of the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. They are the person responsible for the oversight and maintenance of ABA programming and learners with Autism.
ABA Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a scientifically proven approach that helps children with autism learn new skills, reduce challenging behaviours, and improve communication and social interactions. Early and consistent ABA therapy can lead to significant improvements in a child’s ability to function at home, in school, and in the community.
How does therapy help?
ABA therapy helps children with autism develop meaningful skills in communication, social interaction, behavior, and independence by teaching one clear step at a time, at their own pace, and celebrating every success along the way.
Did you know…
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Breaks down language into manageable components (verbal operants like mands, tacts, echoics, etc.).
Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Teaches language during play and daily routines.
Discrete Trial Training (DTT): Focuses on structured one-on-one instruction.
Pivotal Response Training (PRT): Promotes motivation and response to multiple cues.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): Teaches functional communication using pictures.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Includes speech-generating devices for nonverbal children.
How to Achieve Success…
The success of therapy stems from a variety of factors. Here are some…
1. Consistency of attendance
2. Collaboration across all settings (home, school, therapy)
3. Individualized goals tailored to the child’s needs
4. Therapist expertise and rapport with the child
5. Use of evidence-based strategies
6. Regular progress monitoring and data review
Things to Consider…
ABA Treatment
Gives your child the step by step to learning skills by breaking them down. Therapy creates a space for children to learn the skills they need under controlled and natural conditions.
Diet
Healthy eating and nutritional food will help your child’s overall development. Finding ways to incorporate good foods with some supplements may help. Speak to your doctor.
Nervous System
Being over or under stimulated may be linked to your child’s nervous system. By adding strategies to your child’s therapy, you may see improvements by understanding your child’s specific needs.
Probiotics
There is growing research to show the link between the gut and many health issues. By adding probiotics and improving gut health, you may start to see changes in learning and behaviours. Talk to your doctor about adding this to your child’s health plan.
Consistency
Keeping a consistent and regular therapy schedule is important, but in general, ensuring consistency at home will help teach your child what is expected of them.
Teamwork
Working with your child’s team of professionals may increase the positive outcomes of treatment. Be sure to talk to your team, share goals, challenges but don’t forget to share those improvements as well. Even the slightest improvemet is something to celebrate!
ABA
