What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

The ELIJA School utilizes the science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to guide us in the the development of treatment for our learners. This includes skills in a multitude of domains such as communication, social skills, academics and the reduction of maladaptive behaviors which impede on our children's abilities to be in least restrictive environments. Using the science of ABA allows us to be accountable, efficient and competent. ABA ensures our learners are receiving an individualized, data based and effective treatment model and skill acquistion is at it's maximum potential. Utilizing ABA as a teaching technology and treatment model for indivdiuals with Autism has been validated by The U. S. Surgeon General and the New York State Department of Health. These two organizations endorse Applied Behavior Analysis. Because autism is a severe, chronic developmental disorder, which results in significant lifelong disability, the goal of treatment is to promote the child’s social and language development and minimize behaviors that interfere with the child’s functioning and learning. Intensive, sustained special education programs and behavior therapy early in life can increase the ability of the child with autism to acquire language and ability to learn. Special education programs in highly structured environments appear to help the child acquire self-care, social, and job skills. Only in the past decade have studies shown positive outcomes for very young children with autism. Given the severity of the impairment, high intensity of service needs, and costs (both human and financial), there has been an ongoing search for effective treatment.

"Thirty years of research demonstrated the efficacy of applied behavioral methods in reducing inappropriate behavior and in increasing communication, learning, and appropriate social behavior. "

The New York State Health Department, in its Clinical Practice Guidelines, states: “It is recommended that principles of applied behavior analysis and behavior intervention strategies be included as an important element of any intervention program for young children with autism.” Applied Behavior Analysis is the design, implementation, and evaluation of systematic environmental modifications for the purpose of producing socially significant improvements in and understanding of human behavior based on the principles of behavior identified through the experimental analysis of behavior. It includes the identification of functional relationships between behavior and environments. Scientific evidence has established that high quality ABA administered to individuals with autism at a high intensity and duration produces comprehensive and lasting gains in many important skill areas. ABA has been successfully employed in educating persons with autism at all ages, but studies show that early, intensive intervention employing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis produce the best results. Over a span of 30 years, there is a wealth of validated and peer-reviewed studies supporting the efficacy of the ABA methodology to improve and sustain socially significant behaviors in individuals with autism.

The ELIJA School is a not for profit NY State Education Corporation
501 (c) 3

All fundraising and donations are through "Friends of the ELIJA School" , which is a 501 (c) 3 not for profit organization