An Introduction to Applied Behavior AnalysisApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to changing and teaching new behavior.  ABA is based on principles developed by B.F. Skinner, and it focuses on targeting measurable goals and maintaining data on the progress towards these goals.  ABA can be used with a variety of individuals—from infants to adults—and it can be used towards a variety of behaviors.  READ MORE An Overview of Verbal Behavior:  Verbal Behavior (VB) is a language-based approach that targets verbal skill-development using the principals of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).  A VB program typically uses B.F. Skinner’s terms to describe basic components of language, and these components of language are systematically taught to the learner within the context of the behavior program.  These basic components include echoics (repeating words/sounds that are heard), mands (requests, asking for items that are wanted), tacts (labeling or identifying items, actions, events, etc), intraverbals (answering questions or participating in conversations—when words are controlled by the participation of others).    Another important aspect within a VB program is the listener response—the ability to complete directives, such as complying with the mands of others (touch a picture when asked to “touch the cat”).  This also includes an ability to label specific items based on a description of their attributes (LRFFC—listener response by function, feature or class).   READ MORE An Overview of Pivotal Response Intervention Model, based on information provided by Lisa Benaron, MD:  The Pivotal Response Intervention Model (also known as Pivotal Response Training or PRT) is an intervention technique that employs principals of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).  It was developed by Drs. Bob and Lynn Koegel, based on their observations that there are certain skills that are “pivotal” for an individual’s ability to function.   The Koegels define “pivotal” skills as “areas that are central to wide areas of functioning such that improvements will occur across a large number of behaviors.”  They believe that improvements in these “pivotal” areas will lead to improvements in all other areas of a person’s life.   READ MORE PECS - Picture Exchange Communication System:  Developed by: Andrew S. Bondy, Ph.D. & Lori Frost, M.S., CCC/SLP:  "The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) was developed in 1985 as a unique augmentative/ alternative training package that teaches children and adults with autism and other communication deficits to initiate communication. First used at the Delaware Autistic Program, PECS has received worldwide recognition for focusing on the initiation component of communication. PECS does not require complex or expensive materials. It was created with educators, resident care providers and families in mind, and so it is readily used in a variety of settings.  PECS begins with teaching a student to exchange a picture of a desired item with a “teacher”, who immediately honors the request. The training protocol is based on B.F. Skinner’s book, Verbal Behavior so that functional verbal operants are systematically taught using prompting and reinforcement strategies that will lead to independent communication. Verbal prompts are not used, thus building immediate initiation and avoiding prompt dependency. The system goes on to teach discrimination of symbols and then how to put them all together in simple sentences. In the most advanced Phases, individuals are taught to comment and answer direct questions. Many preschoolers using PECS also begin developing speech." Resource:  Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. Floor Time / DIR-Model:    "The DIR (Developmental, Individual-Difference, Relationship-Based)/Floortime approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and treating children challenged by autism spectrum and related disorders. It focuses on helping children master the building blocks of relating, communicating and thinking, rather than on symptoms alone."  Resource: The Floor Time Foundation. An overview of RDI:  The Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) is a program created by Dr. Steven Gutstein.   The program is parent-centered, and is based on Gutstein’s theory that this type of intervention will help “lay missing pathways in the brain.” Gutstein is a psychologist who began his career using traditional, behavioral approaches to autism treatment. He felt that, though patients increased in skills, they still lacked basic abilities to connect on an emotional level.   READ MORE

Useful Web Links

The Floor Time Foundation Our mission: to redefine the potential of children with developmental and communication challenges by making the DIR/Floortime model broadly available.   Chester County Mental Health / Mental Retardation Services and Supports that: Help a child achieve his or her own developmental potential.  Provides a nurturing environment. To address your child's individual needs.  Offers families support and assistance.   The ARC of Montgomeryt County / South Eastern Pennsylvania A leading proponent of the rights of people with developmental disabilities and their family.  MARC Children Services provides early intervetion and support to children with developmental delays ranging in age birth to three.

BACB Board Certified Behavior Analyst website   Pyramid  Pyramid Education Consultants.  Home of PECS (The Picture Exchange System) and the Pyramid Approach to Education.

We will be updating these links frequently so be sure to check back often.