Considering ABA? Start with these questions.

Understand the idea, then the individual plan

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is one approach used to support autistic people. It looks at learning and behavior, with progress measured over time. The name alone does not tell you what your child’s sessions will look like.

Ask the provider to describe an ordinary visit in everyday language. Who will be there? What might your child do? How will the team respond when your child needs a break or shows discomfort?

Ask questions that matter to your family

You do not need to know all the terminology before making a call. Keep a short list of what you want to understand.

• Who designs the plan, and how can I speak with that person?
• How do we choose goals together and include my child’s interests?
• How are consent, participation and requests to stop respected?
• How will we know whether a goal helps in everyday life?
• How will you coordinate with other professionals supporting my child?

Leave with a clear next step

Before agreeing to services, ask for an explanation of the assessment, proposed schedule, costs and ways to raise concerns. Take time to review the information. A conversation is a chance to understand your options; it is not a promise of a particular outcome.