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Families are the first and last line of defense in ensuring a life that is meaningful. The most effective therapy for children with autistic spectral disorders has been applied behavior analysis. If funding is available for early intervention, it is generally extremely limited. Most professionals suggest that therapy should extend throughout the week and for most waking hours. No insurance or state sponsored programs will assist in the payment of these services.
Few parents receive a training manual when their children are born. Generally we learn from our parents and on-the-job. But, there's nothing you have learned from growing up or your parents that will prepare families for raising an autistic son or daughter.
There is a tremendous gap in the availability of trained behaviorists and the need for in-home intervention. Through the use of computer-based simulation parents and other caregivers can reach a level of expertise that can meet or exceed levels of expertise in their community. Training programs are internet based and ala carte allowing the user to pay only for the services they need. For a reasonable access fee, subscribers will be able to gain levels of expertise available only to certified trainers. Our BeST® family of programs will be available on-line at www.behaviorsimulationtraining.com in mid 2009.
The role of the Behavior Analyst in home therapy is three-fold: 1. To assess the needs of the child related to their behavioral disability, 2. Develop programs related to improving skills and eliminating undesired behavior and 3. Teaching parents how to implement and execute those plans. Our goal, through the simulation training program, is to ensure that you understand each of these roles and can be a critical reviewer of the expertise you are paying for.
Behavior therapy is ongoing and across environments. That means parents are the key to continuity. The behavior analyst ensures parents are executing the improvement plans and documenting. It is absolutely essential that all targeted behavior and skill acquisition are treated the same by all people who associate with your son or daughter. When a behavior analyst or trainer visits the home, it is not to provide respite services or give the parents time off. The primary purpose of the visit is to ensure that progress is being made with the behavior plan and to observe the parents working with the child. It represents a standard time to answer questions and refine procedures.
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