The Verbal Behavior Approach by Dr. Mary Barbera

This is known as one of the greatest resources of Verbal Behavior Approach. The book was written by a nurse, BCBA and mom with a child with autism- It gives you a nice overview of the principles of ABA and Verbal Behavior approach when teaching young students to communicate better, which can be easily adopted by educators, therapists and parents.

Let’s talk about how to set up a program for students with autism or language delay.

Honestly thinking that my teaching could have been so much more effective if I have equipped with this amazing guideline for the last many years. Most of techniques have been already embedded in the different parts of my program but let us say that it is time to clarify and refine.

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Here’s the list of things to keep in mind when setting up ABA/VB program.

Be more positive with your child.
Reduce demands by giving directions that are easy, that can be prompted, and that you are willing to follow through on.
Always be gentle with the child. Don’t yell or use physical force to gain compliance.
Limit the use of your child’s name, especially when placing a demand or saying no.
Start identifying potential reinforcers, and make sure to label them two or three times, each time they are delivered to your child.
Label things throughout the day with one- or two-word phrase in a slightly emphasized, slower, and more animated tone.
Do not respond to problem behaviors by withdrawing requests, or allowing the child to gain access to reinforcers while problem behavior is occurring. Teach your child that problem behaviors do not get him what he is seeking.
Correct errors, prompt and do transfer trials throughout the day. Whenever you prompt your child to give an answer, or if you have to correct something he said, make sure to ask him the question a second time to get a more independent response.