About Us

Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA is a discipline; a science-based approach that is devoted to the understanding and improvement of human behavior. ABA focuses on objectively defined, observable behaviors of social significance, and seeks to improve the behavior by using scientific methods. Teaching strategies are systematic and involve objective measurement procedures.

The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends 25 hours per week of intensive, early intervention. Recommendations of 40 hours or more are also noted (McEachin, Smith, & Lovass, 1993; and autism-help.org, 2007). The best case scenario is that a child is identified during the first screening at 12 to 15 months. This allows for 21 to 24 months of therapy totaling 2100 to 2400 hours. This crucial time can make the difference between entering the educational system with near typical development, and a lifetime spent in the developmental services system.

The following areas are instrumental if the child is to have an optimal support system during the early intervention years (0 – 3):  

1) Therapists trained to implement ABA programming, both professional 

    and paraprofessional, must be identified.  

2) Parents must receive education as well as develop a support system to 

    integrate the therapies into their lives.  

3)  A funding stream must be identified.

Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) is grounded in the principles of ABA and includes the following:

For further information pertaining to any of the above information,
contact Stephanie Sherard, Outpatient Manager,
Children's Care Hospital and School at 605-782-8490.

"I'm so impressed and happy with the lessons Lisa and Jamie have provided in Adaptive Aquatics. They are by far, the best lessons the girls have ever received. I am very grateful."

– Robert B., Parent