For parents of children with autism, finding the right support can feel like chasing a moving target. ABA therapy—short for Applied Behavior Analysis—might be one of the most talked-about options, but it’s not always clearly explained.
Here, we break down what ABA therapy really involves, how it helps kids build meaningful life skills, and why so many Maryland families are turning to it for meaningful change.
The Heart of ABA: Real-Life Skills That Stick
ABA therapy focuses on one thing: behavior. But not just any behavior—it hones in on what matters most to each child and family. That might mean helping a nonverbal child communicate with picture cards, reducing aggressive outbursts, or teaching the steps of handwashing independently.
Rather than using a one-size-fits-all model, ABA therapists conduct thorough assessments to understand the function of a child’s behavior. Are they hitting because they’re overwhelmed by noise? Avoiding classwork because it feels impossible? Trying to get your attention because they don’t know how to ask for help?
Once the “why” is clear, we can work on the “what now.” Therapists then develop targeted interventions that reward positive behaviors, reduce harmful or unhelpful ones, and teach new skills that serve the same purpose—but in a safer, more effective way.
The impact? More independence. Better communication. Healthier relationships.
Where ABA Makes the Biggest Difference
In Maryland, families are finding real success with ABA therapy, as it helps kids develop the skills they need for life. Whether it’s communication or daily living tasks, ABA therapy is helping children take big steps forward.
1. Improving Communication Skills
Children who are non-speaking or have limited verbal language often struggle to express even basic needs. This can lead to frustration, tantrums, and isolation. ABA helps children learn:
- Functional Communication: This means asking for things in whatever way works best—signs, pictures, speech-generating devices, or spoken words.
- Mand Training: Teaching a child to ask for what they want or need, which can reduce disruptive behaviors.
- Expanding Language: Going beyond labeling to requesting, answering questions, and engaging in conversation.
Whether a child starts with PECS, AAC, or single words, therapists meet them where they are—and help them build toward where they want to go.
2. Building Daily Living Skills
For many parents, milestones aren’t about grades or sports—they’re about brushing teeth without a meltdown or learning to use the toilet independently. ABA programs often focus on:
- Dressing and hygiene routines
- Feeding (including food selectivity and sensitivity)
- Sleep schedules and transitions
- Safety awareness, such as crossing the street or responding to their name
With repetition, reinforcement, and lots of patience, these skills become part of the child’s daily life—and reduce the strain on caregivers.
3. School Readiness and Academic Support
The classroom can be overwhelming: lights, noise, routines, transitions, peer interactions. ABA therapy helps children:
- Follow directions
- Wait and take turns
- Sit for increasing periods
- Attend to tasks and complete assignments
- Engage in group learning without disruptive behaviors
In Maryland, many ABA providers work directly with schools or shadow students to support these skills in real time—building bridges between home therapy and school success.
What ABA Therapy Actually Looks Like
A lot of parents ask, “What does my child actually do in ABA?” It’s a fair question. Here’s a glimpse into what a personalized ABA program might include:
A Typical ABA Session May Cover:
Each ABA session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the child, focusing on building important skills through structured activities. Here’s a look at some of the key areas that might be included in a typical session.
1. Morning Routine Practice
Therapists help children run through brushing teeth, washing face, and getting dressed—breaking each task into small, teachable steps. Prompts and praise guide the learning.
2. Communication Time
The child practices asking for preferred toys or snacks using their current communication method. Over time, the prompts fade and independence increases.
3. Play-Based Learning
Games that teach taking turns, sharing, or joint attention are disguised as fun—but they’re key for social development.
4. Behavioral Support
If a child tends to bolt from the room when frustrated, the team might work on teaching “ask for a break” as a replacement behavior. Data is tracked daily.
5. Parent Training
Therapists coach caregivers on how to respond to challenging behaviors and reinforce learning at home. Without this component, progress often stalls.
6. Generalization in the Community
Therapists might accompany the family to the grocery store or playground to practice skills in a real-world setting, where things aren’t always predictable.
No two sessions are alike—because no two children are.
Why Families Across Maryland Are Turning to ABA
Families often arrive at ABA therapy after trying many other things. What makes ABA different is its structure, data-driven decisions, and focus on practical outcomes. Across Maryland, parents report the biggest benefits in areas such as:
1. Behavioral Improvements that Reduce Stress
From self-injury to screaming fits, challenging behaviors can upend daily life. ABA doesn’t just aim to stop these behaviors—it replaces them with skills that actually meet the child’s needs.
2. Increased Family Connection
As communication improves, so do relationships. Many parents describe the first time their child said “I love you” or asked for a hug as a turning point they never thought they’d see.
3. Better Access to Community Life
With support from ABA, families who once avoided restaurants, parties, or outings start to feel like they can participate again. Skills generalize beyond the therapy room.
4. Empowered Parents
Parent training is embedded in most ABA programs for a reason: it works. When parents understand how to reinforce new skills and respond consistently to behaviors, the entire home environment becomes more supportive.
How to Know If ABA Therapy Is Right for Your Child
If you’re navigating an autism diagnosis or ongoing behavioral concerns, you may wonder whether ABA is a fit. Here are some signs that it might be time to explore:
- Your child is showing delays in communication, daily living, or social skills.
- Behaviors like aggression, self-injury, or elopement are interfering with daily life.
- You’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to respond to certain behaviors.
- You want structured support with clear goals and measurable outcomes.
While ABA therapy can be intensive (some children receive 10–40 hours per week), programs can be tailored based on the child’s age, goals, and availability.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re a parent looking for ABA therapy in Maryland—Crown ABA offers in-home, personalized services designed to support your child’s unique journey.
Crown ABA helps children learn communication, social, and daily living skills through data-driven strategies and compassionate care. Our team partners with families to create real change where it matters most: at home, in school, and in the community.
If you’re a clinician seeking supervision, a supportive team, and opportunities to grow in the field, we’d love to hear from you too.
Contact Crown ABA to see how we can work together to support the next step forward.
