Feature Article
Managing Transitions Between Activities
As adults, we express our needs, wants and feelings daily using functional communication skills. Children with autism may have difficulties communicating and may express themselves by displaying maladaptive behavior. One way to solve this problem and reduce frustration in your client is through Functional Communication Training (FCT).
Feature Article
What is a Token Economy?
A 'not so science-y' approach to behavior
Token economies are often seen when teaching in the field of ABA. A token economy is a system used to build behavior momentum and teach new skills. Each token holds value, and with each token received, learners are one step closer to receiving a highly preferred reinforcer. This could include a tangible item they enjoy playing with, tickles from their favorite person, or time away from the learning environment. In order to earn each token, learners must respond appropriately depending on the stimuli (aka demand/instruction) given. It is important to present stimuli already in the learner's repertoire before expanding to novel instructions. This is what builds behavior momentum.
Feature Article
Managing Transitions Between Activities
It can be challenging to help children with autism to transition from one activity to another. There are many reasons why children with autism struggle with transitioning between activities. They may become hyper-focused on what they are doing, struggle with stopping a preferred activity, feeling overwhelmed by the next activity or sensory deficits may prevent children from transitioning between activities.