ABA 101: A Simple Guide for Families
ABA 101: A Simple Guide for Families
Many families hear “ABA” for the first time when someone recommends it for their child. It can feel confusing at first, and it’s hard to know what to expect. This guide gives you a simple overview of what ABA is, what it looks like in real life, and how it might support your child and family.
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a science of learning and behavior. In therapy, ABA helps children build skills and reduce behaviors that make daily life harder.
ABA can support children with:
Communication and language
Coping skills and emotional regulation
Daily living skills like dressing, eating, and toileting
Play and social interaction
Flexibility with routines
Safety skills and reducing dangerous behaviors
At StarBright Centers, ABA is:
Individualized for each child
Led by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Focused on meaningful, real life goals
Adjusted over time as your child grows
What ABA is not
There are many common myths about ABA. Here is what ABA is not:
It is not a quick fix
It is not a once per week session
It is not punishment based
It is not about forcing a child to act a certain way
Good ABA is collaborative, respectful, and centered on your child’s well being.
What ABA can look like
ABA sessions are active and hands on. Depending on your child’s goals, sessions may include:
Play based learning
Practicing daily routines
Using visual supports
Teaching coping strategies
Building communication skills
Practicing real life skills in natural moments
Parent coaching and collaboration
Every program looks different because every child is different.
Where ABA Therapy Happens
Clinic Based ABA
Clinic based services happen in a structured learning environment.
This setting offers:
Clear routines
Fewer distractions
Access to specialized materials
Opportunities for peer interactions
Support from a full team on site
Clinic based ABA can be especially helpful for children who thrive with structure and consistency.
Home Based ABA
Home based services take place where your child spends most of their time.
This setting supports:
Morning and evening routines
Mealtime challenges
Transitions at home
Sibling relationships
Independence skills like dressing or toileting
Home based ABA helps skills generalize to daily life and naturally includes parent involvement.
School Based ABA
Some children receive ABA support at school. This may include:
Collaboration with teachers and staff
Classroom behavior support
Help with following directions and routines
Support with communication and social skills
Plans to reduce disruptions and increase participation
The goal is to help your child use skills consistently across home, school, and therapy.
How many hours do children receive?
Parents are often surprised to learn that ABA is more than a weekly session.
Hours are determined by:
A BCBA evaluation
Medical necessity
Your child’s developmental needs
Some children receive 6 to 10 hours per week, while others may receive 20 hours or more. The goal is to match the intensity of therapy to your child’s learning needs and what works for your family.
What to Expect Next
Here is a simple overview of the process:
Interest form received
We review your information and reach out to schedule an introductory call.Intake Meeting
We learn more about your child and answer questions.Assessment with a BCBA
This includes interviews, observations, and standardized assessments.Personalized treatment plan
Your BCBA writes goals and recommends hours.Insurance review and authorization
We request approval from your insurance provider.Scheduling and team assignment
Once authorized, we match your child with a team.Start of services and ongoing communication
We review progress with you regularly and update goals as needed.
Your Role as a Parent or Caregiver
You are an essential part of your child’s ABA program. At StarBright Centers we:
Encourage open communication
Share progress and data
Teach strategies you can use at home
Set goals that matter to your family
Therapy is always more effective when families feel informed and supported.
What Makes StarBright Centers Different
We know choosing a therapy provider is a big decision. At StarBright Centers, we focus on:
Family centered, relationship based care
Trauma informed and compassionate practices
Respect for neurodiversity
Clear communication
Goals that improve day to day life
Integrating music and creativity when appropriate
Our mission is simple: help children grow, help families feel supported, and create an environment where everyone feels welcome.
Have questions?
If you’d like to talk before your intake meeting, we’re here to help.
Email: rglamore@starbrightcenters.com
Website: starbrightcenters.com
