Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) becomes even more impactful when children are actively involved in their behavior plan. At Helping Hands Family, we use assent-based ABA therapy, which prioritizes a child’s preferences and independence, ensuring they feel respected and engaged throughout their therapy journey. This approach lays the foundation for ethical, relatable care that truly works!
What Is Assent-Based Thinking?
Assent is all about a child willingly agreeing to participate in an activity or intervention. While consent comes from a parent or guardian, assent ensures the child’s voice is heard too. This approach:
- Let children actively engage in their therapy
- Builds trust between a child and their behavior therapist
- Allows the child to practice self-advocacy.
Getting assent from children with autism can be tricky, though. Some may not yet fully understand the request, while others might struggle to communicate their agreement. That’s why obtaining assent is an ongoing process. At Helping Hands Family, we ensure each child’s willingness to participate by:
- Asking for permission
- Listening to feedback
- Watching for nonverbal cues
- Noting their readiness to engage
By focusing on these steps, we create a therapy experience where children feel heard and empowered!
How Do We Obtain Assent?
At Helping Hands Family, we use a variety of strategies to make sure each child’s preferences are respected throughout ABA therapy:
Simple explanations: We break down activities in easy-to-understand terms, using visual aids to help kids know what to expect and feel at ease.
Asking for agreement: A simple “yes,” a nod, or even a thumbs-up shows a child’s willingness to participate. For non-verbal kids, we offer choices to keep them actively involved.
Checking in regularly: We ask questions during sessions to see how the child feels. Positive signs like focused attention or happy participation show continued assent, while signs of frustration let us know when to switch things up for a better experience.
By prioritizing clear communication and flexibility, we ensure therapy is fun, ethical, and always individualized to each child’s needs!
Child-Led, Not Permissive
A common myth about assent-based therapy is that it means kids can do whatever they want. In reality, it’s all about encouraging self-advocacy and collaboration within a structured setting. Here’s how it works:
Encouraging appropriate requests: Therapists might say, “One more minute, then we’ll move on,” giving kids a chance to express their preferences while keeping things on track.
Offering choices: Simple decisions, like choosing between sitting in the green or red chair, help kids feel in control without losing focus.
Pivoting instead of avoiding tasks: If a child resists, therapists can switch things up—like hopping to a new activity or moving to a different room—while still staying on task.
Though kids get the chance to lead, safety and essential tasks are always non-negotiable. This approach builds trust and keeps therapy effective—without being overly permissive!
Personalization Builds Success
At Helping Hands Family, we create autism therapy plans individualized to each child’s unique needs, strengths, and motivations. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all ABA therapy! Our fresh approach:
- Encourages communication through both verbal and non-verbal cues
- Strengthens the bond between therapists and children
- Focuses on meaningful, child-centered interventions
By personalizing therapy, we help kids reach their goals in a way that respects their individuality and sets them up for lasting success!
Family Involvement Enhances Assent-Based ABA
Family involvement is key to making assent-based therapy a success! With ongoing feedback from parents and caregivers, our team can:
- Design interventions that are engaging and relatable
- Target developmental goals more accurately
- Keep treatment plans flexible, evolving with the child’s needs and preferences
At Helping Hands Family, we ensure therapy aligns with each child’s personality and goals. This collaborative approach creates a strong support system, helping children thrive both in therapy and everyday life!
The Benefits of Assent-Based ABA Therapy
Assent-based therapy in ABA offers some amazing benefits:
- Stronger connections: Kids build trust with therapists who honor their choices.
- Better cooperation: Letting children have a say reduces resistance and boosts engagement.
- Skill building: Encouraging self-advocacy helps kids develop key communication and decision-making skills.
At Helping Hands Family, we focus on child-led, play-based interventions that respect each child’s needs. When a child wants a change or needs a break, our flexible team offers fun, educational alternatives to keep therapy positive and productive!
Partnering for Your Child’s Success
Assent-based ABA therapy is a compassionate, effective way to support children with autism. By prioritizing their preferences and involving families, Helping Hands Family creates ethical, engaging therapy plans tailored to each child’s unique needs, from Connecticut to ABA therapy in Maryland.
Contact Us Today
To learn more about how assent-based ABA therapy can benefit your child, reach out to Helping Hands Family. Our team is here to support your family and create a plan that fosters growth, trust, and success.
