PLAY
Learning should be fun and engaging and that is why I incorporate play into every session. By centering around your child’s interests we can build motivation and empower them to explore.
LEARN
Learning is hard but it doesn’t always have to be if you know how to do it. And when it’s fun, it’s even easier! Learning is only meaningful if your child can utilize and make sense of those skills. So it’s important to create as many opportunities as possible for application.
GROW
Once your child is equipped with foundational skills, their self-confidence will grow and it’s more likely that they’ll feel empowered to take the lead and explore the world with joy.
Motivation, independence, and foundational learning how to learn skills are factors that have a significant effect on the learning process. And these are domains that build on each other and become stronger together. My goal is to help your child become an individual that is equipped with a desire to learn, is independent in their actions, and has all the behavior skills necessary for continued learning.
MOTIVATION
When your child is motivated, they become eager and enthusiastic learners, embracing challenges with curiosity and determination. This drive is what propels them to explore their interests, build on their strengths, and overcome obstacles, fostering a lifelong love for learning. Both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators have to make sense in the real world. Because of the nature of ABA, there is a tendency to rely on extrinsic motivators. And often you hear of therapists using edible treats cut into tiny pieces. Not all edible motivators are bad but are they natural, sustainable, and removable? The best motivators are ones that reflect the child’s interests and are socially and age appropriate. Building motivation takes a lot of time and work but it’s definitely worth the trouble.
INDEPENDENCE
Independence nurtures self-confidence and resilience, empowering your child to make their own choices and take ownership of their actions. With independence, they develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a sense of responsibility, enabling them to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and maturity. When your child is young, you are usually around to help them and nudge them to engage with the world. As they grow older, they have to be able to do more on their own. When they’re at school, they won’t always have access to help. Training in independence from an early age is crucial. Often a child with developmental delays is trained to become over-reliant on outside help and this hinders their ability to problem-solve and self-advocate. Effective treatment should be able to equip your child with the ability to initiate interactions, communications, work, etc. on their own.
LEARNING HOW TO LEARN
Learning how to learn is a comprehensive skill that allows you to attend, understand, and filter information as well as display appropriate behavioral self-control. By becoming adept at learning, your child can continuously grow and adapt to changing circumstances, unlocking a world of opportunities and personal development.