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intensive aba based program

We have designed an ABA-based social skills program designed for middle schoolers with moderate language or cognitive delays, as well as those facing behavioral challenges around peers. This program focuses on providing structured, individualized support to help students develop essential social and emotional skills. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses evidence-based strategies to break down complex social interactions into manageable steps, ensuring that students can learn and practice skills in a way that aligns with their developmental needs. For students with moderate delays or Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1 or 2), this approach is particularly beneficial as it targets both communication and behavior through reinforcement and consistent practice. In a structured environment, students are taught key social skills such as initiating conversations, maintaining eye contact, interpreting social cues, managing emotions, and responding to peers appropriately.

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For students with Level 2 Autism or more significant delays, an intensive ABA program is often necessary due to the unique challenges they face in social situations. These students may struggle with understanding and applying social norms, regulating emotions in group settings, or managing impulsive behaviors. ABA’s systematic, individualized approach ensures that the program is tailored to each student's specific strengths and challenges. By using techniques such as prompting, reinforcement, and behavior modification, ABA helps students learn in small, achievable steps. Intensive programs are designed to provide consistent, structured practice, helping students generalize their social skills in a variety of settings, from the classroom to social environments like lunchrooms or recreational activities. This type of focused instruction supports the development of more independent, functional social skills.

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​This ABA-based social skills program will meet three days a week during the after-school hours, providing a consistent and structured environment for students to practice and develop key social and emotional skills. The after-school schedule ensures that students can attend the program without conflicting with their academic responsibilities, allowing for focused, uninterrupted learning. These sessions are designed to offer intensive, individualized support, ensuring that each participant has ample opportunities to engage in social activities, receive direct feedback, and apply new skills in a peer-focused setting.

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The intensity of an ABA-based program is crucial for middle schoolers who face more significant social challenges, as it helps provide the frequent repetition and reinforcement needed to make lasting progress. Social and emotional learning can be particularly challenging for students with moderate delays because they may struggle with the nuanced aspects of peer interactions, such as understanding humor, recognizing body language, or managing frustration. By working in a more intensive, focused program, these students can receive the individualized attention they need to master these foundational skills in a safe, supportive environment. Over time, this structured yet flexible approach enables students to gain the confidence and skills they need to navigate peer relationships, express themselves effectively, and engage in meaningful social experiences.

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​These social skills groups will be run through families' medical insurance, provided that the insurance covers behavioral health services such as ABA therapy. For families whose insurance includes this coverage, the program will be billed directly through their plan, making it more accessible and reducing out-of-pocket costs. Our team will assist with verifying coverage and navigating the necessary paperwork, ensuring that families can focus on their child's progress without the added stress of administrative tasks.