The Unique Benefits of ABA Therapy for Older Children

Many people think that ABA therapy only works for young children with autism. Whilst early intervention is always best, at Above And Beyond Therapy, we also specialize in providing ABA for older children ages 8-12 with autism. Our personalized approach and programs are geared for school-aged children, giving them the tools to navigate social scenes, academic settings and their day-to-day routine. At Above and Beyond, pre-teens acquire new skills and reach their full potential with the help of our experienced specialists. 

Why ABA for Older Children is Different 

ABA for school-aged kids is extremely beneficial. However, it requires more patience as older children may be more set in their ways and require more effort to reinforce the principles of ABA. 

Between the ages of 8-12, children start feeling the need to gain acceptance from peers. Children with autism are often excluded from activities because they often find it difficult to understand social norms and follow instructions. Consequently, these children can feel isolated and face more challenges emotionally and behaviorally. A 2023 study reveals that social isolation in autism is more prevalent amongst children ages 10 and above.

A successful transition from childhood to adolescence requires the acquisition of a variety of social and life skills. At this stage children are trained in the following areas:

• Self-help and daily living
• Community and social integration
• Safety awareness
• Functional communication
• Problem-solving

Once a child becomes a teen, daily living skills become even more important, and ABA therapy for teens will be adapted to reflect the individual’s evolving needs.

ABA Therapy for Older Children vs. Younger Children

The strategies used in ABA with older kids will differ from those used with younger ones. With each stage in life, children face new challenges and develop the need for different skills. Consequently, ABA therapy for a 12-year-old will focus on different areas of development compared to a younger child.

The differences between ABA therapy for older kids and younger kids are highlighted here:

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Key Benefits of ABA for Older Kids

While most research in the field of ABA therapy focuses on younger children, the principles of ABA can be tailored to all individuals. Its versatile nature allows behavior experts to create individualized treatment plans that address the specific challenges faced by older children. 

Although ABA treatment for older children may involve fewer hours compared to early intervention, the effectiveness is evident in various areas:

1. Social Skills Development: Older children benefit from interventions that aim to enhance their social interactions. Therapists may teach them appropriate responses in social situations, improve their conversational skills, and encourage teamwork. 
2. Daily Living Skills: Learning essential life skills is crucial for older children and promotes independence as they prepare for adulthood. ABA therapy for children aged 8 and above includes teaching organization skills, managing self-care routines, and navigating public spaces.
3. ‍Behavior Management: ABA therapy effectively addresses challenging behaviors that may persist or develop during the pre-teen to teenage years. By understanding the functions of these behaviors, therapists can implement behavioral skills training to reduce them and promote positive alternatives.
4. ‍Academic Support: ABA for school-aged kids can assist with academic skills development and facilitate integration into mainstream classrooms. Specialized strategies may include studying techniques and time management to create a supportive learning environment. ABA therapy for 11-year-olds is especially vital, as children may need more support as they transition from elementary school.

Effectiveness of ABA for Older Children

Many studies support the notion that ABA can help children of all ages. A study of children with ASD in 2023 revealed that comprehensive ABA-based interventions resulted in a 51% increase in intellectual functioning and a 37% enhancement in adaptive behavior for children aged 8-12.

Challenges in Implementing ABA for Older Children

Implementing ABA therapy for older children requires careful consideration and planning. Some techniques that work well with younger learners may not be as appropriate or effective for older children. These are some challenges that can crop up in the therapy process:

• Older children have more autonomy and control of their environment, making it more difficult for therapists to get them to produce the desired behaviors.
• Older learners have a longer history that has influenced the development of their current behaviors. Therefore, it may be harder to break certain habits and implement positive behaviors. 

Therapists must address these challenges and build rapport with the child to create positive changes in their behavior and develop new skills and abilities.

Effectively Implementing ABA for Older Children

Providing ABA for older children comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. By implementing individualized therapy plans and involving families in the ABA process, therapists can set older children up for a successful therapy journey.

Individualizing Therapy Approaches

ABA therapy is distinctly tailored to meet the individual needs of each child. Starting with a thorough assessment, an interview, and observations enables the therapists to identify the child’s specific challenges and skill sets. This process is essential, as each pre-teen with autism is unique and requires customized interventions to progress. ABA therapy for a 10-year-old will look different from the strategies used with a 5-year-old, and implementation will also vary for different children in the same age bracket.In addition, tracking behavior changes and adjusting ABA programs are integral components of the ongoing assessment and refinement process in ABA therapy. Through these practices, therapists can continually evaluate progress, fine-tune interventions, and provide the most effective support for older children in ABA therapy.

Involving the Family in the ABA Process

When it comes to ABA for older kids, involving parents and caregivers is a crucial aspect of the treatment process. Family members can implement strategies and interventions, reinforcing positive behaviors and generalizing skills learned during therapy sessions. This ensures the principles of ABA therapy can be applied consistently across various settings, maximizing the treatment's effectiveness.

Therapists can provide guidance training and support to help families implement the ABA techniques effectively. They can work together to identify target behaviors, set goals, and develop individualized treatment plans for their child. 

Choosing the Right ABA Therapy Clinic for Older Children

There are some important factors to consider when seeking the right therapy center for your school-aged child. While ABA therapy is over 89% effective in helping those with autism, the results largely depend on the therapy provider one chooses. 

Making an informed decision can significantly impact a child’s development and future. Some of the essential elements that parents should ensure when selecting an ABA provider include:

1. Staffing

• Staff are certified and/or licensed
• There are appropriate staff-to-patient ratios 
• Staff hold a high level of education

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2. Quality Programming

• Observable data is used to back up every behavior and program
• Plans are individualized
• Plans are based on reinforcement rather than consequences
• Plans address generalization and maintenance

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3. Parent Involvement

• Regular communication is maintained
• Progress updates are provided
• Parent training is offered

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4. Availability and Location

Factors to consider:

• Waiting time
• Do they offer in-home ABA, school-based ABA, and/or ABA in-clinic?
• Therapist availability 

Why Choose Above and Beyond Therapy?

Above and Beyond Therapy offers a combination of expertise, personalized care, ongoing education and positive outcomes, making it the ideal choice for children ages 8-12 looking to benefit from ABA therapy.

What Makes Us Different?

1. Experienced and Qualified Staff

We hand-pick the highest caliber therapists and analysts to join our team. With further training and support, they are well-equipped to work with your child. 

2. Collaboration

We value the importance of family involvement in a child’s progress. We have a portal where parents can track their child’s progress and see all their child’s data in one place. Additionally, we offer parent training so that parents receive the tools to help their child succeed.

3. Individualized Treatment Plans

At our agency, we pride ourselves on crafting personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each child’s unique needs and goals. 

4. No Wait List

Children no longer need to wait for ABA therapy. There is no waiting list at Above and Beyond Therapy -- we offer prompt care and ensure a hassle-free experience. 

5. School-Based Support

Our specialists work with your child’s school to create teaching strategies that incorporate ABA methods so that your child can advance and succeed.

Our Locations

The benefits of center-based therapy are numerous. In a structured environment, there is heightened supervision, and it aids in transitioning your child to mainstream settings. Our clinic gives children the opportunity to engage with and learn alongside peers while receiving one-on-one therapy. 

‍Above and Beyond Therapy Locations

‍We also offer ABA therapy in the comfort of your own home. Your child can receive individualized therapy in their most comfortable environment.

Start ABA Therapy For Older Children With Above and Beyond

Older children can significantly benefit from ABA therapy, as the approach is tailored to each individual’s specific needs and abilities. Whether the focus is on social or academic achievements or enhancing independence, ABA for older children can be a powerful tool in promoting positive outcomes.

At Above and Beyond Therapy, we offer one-to-one individualized ABA therapy with a superior application. Our stellar team of highly qualified therapists works with children and their families to foster growth and positive change, helping to make a lasting impact on the lives of children ages 8-12 with autism.

Are you ready to start your older child’s ABA therapy journey with Above and Beyond Therapy? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services. 

FAQs

What is the typical duration of ABA for older children?

Therapy hours are not set in stone and will vary significantly from child to child, based on their skill level, severity of symptoms and progress pace. However, it typically can range from several months to a few years.

‍How many hours per week should a child aged 8-12 participate in ABA therapy? 

Children in this age group typically participate in ABA therapy for 12-15 hours per week, depending on their individual needs and goals.

‍What are some common ABA interventions for children aged 8-12? 

Common ABA interventions include Natural Environment Teaching (NET), Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), and other evidence-based techniques tailored to the child's specific needs.

‍What qualifications should an ABA therapist have?

When looking for an ABA provider for your 8-12 year old, the following factors are vitally important: 

• Certification by the BACB 
• Experience working with older children
• Reliability
• Ability to take direction from others

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