If your child’s pediatrician or medical provider recommends ABA therapy, you might be wondering how it can fit into your child’s daily routine while they are attending daycare. You may feel torn, thinking you will have to remove your child from daycare to receive services. Perhaps daycare is essential for your work schedule, or perhaps you prefer the structured environment it provides for your child, especially for socializing with peers. ABA in daycare settings is possible in most situations, meaning you wouldn’t need to choose between your child receiving the therapy they need and the benefits of daycare.
ABA therapy when a child is young is often referred to as Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI). EIBI is a well-researched, evidence-based practice of providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for children in the early years of their lives. EIBI has been researched as an integral aspect of early programming for children who have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Research has indicated that EIBI treatment may contribute to gains in development including social skills, behavior and communication. By bringing EIBI services to daycare, children can receive the therapy they need and personalized support in a familiar and social environment.
Integrating EIBI into daycare involves Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) working closely with daycare staff to create individualized plans for each child. These plans focus on the child’s specific needs. This can be improving social skills, communication, daily living skills, reducing challenging behaviors, or learning play skills. BCBAs also teach daycare providers how to reinforce these skills throughout the day, which helps ensure consistency. EIBI typically includes a Behavior Therapist who would provide direct therapy services to your child in the daycare setting. Behavior therapist services for many young children with autism could be up to 40 hours per week depending on clinical recommendation.
For parents, having ABA services at daycare offers the convenience of therapy that is woven into your child’s daily routine. Instead of needing separate appointments or disrupting your child’s schedule, ABA becomes a seamless part of their day. It allows for natural learning opportunities while they interact with their peers with the support of ABA professionals.
