Individualized Sessions
Our Teaching Methods
The Verbal Behaviour (VB) approach, developed by B.F. Skinner and based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), focuses on teaching functional language skills. Particularly effective for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, VB emphasizes the function of language, such as requesting, labeling, and conversing. It is used to help both verbal and nonverbal children, especially those who are not yet conversational, by reinforcing practical communication skills like:
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Mand: A request (e.g., "I want cookie")
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Tact: A label or description (e.g., "That’s a dog")
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Echoic: Repeating what is heard (e.g., "cookie")
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Intraverbal: A verbal exchange (e.g., "What’s your name?" "John")
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VB promotes natural and meaningful communication, enhancing language development and supporting children with communication delays.
Building Connections and Communication
The Verbal Behaviour (VB) approach is child-centered, focusing on creating strong connections between the child and their instructor through a process called "pairing." During pairing, we associate the child’s favourite items or activities with the instructor and the work area, helping the child view the instructor as a positive and engaging figure. As a result, the child is more motivated to interact and learn. When done effectively, the child will eagerly engage with the instructor and the work area, driven by VB’s emphasis on building communication through fun, interactive, and engaging learning experiences.
A Typical Session at ABACS
A typical day at ABACS begins with the Instructor Therapist greeting the learners as they arrive for their session. Each learner is guided through their arrival routine, such as removing outdoor boots and coats.
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Next, learners transition to their individualized session area, where they work on skills tailored to their strengths and areas of growth. These may include expressive and receptive language programs, social skills, communication, pre-academic skills, and life skills (e.g., toileting and eating).
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Throughout the session, learners have opportunities for movement breaks, creative activities, and social interactions, ensuring a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.