Home-based vs. centre-based ABA therapy for children with autism

If you’re the parent of a child diagnosed with autism, you’ll likely be looking into applied behaviour analysis (ABA) programs. Once you’re ready to start an ABA program, you’ll need to choose between centre-based ABA programs and home-based ABA programs.

The good news is that either type of program can be beneficial in different ways. No matter what option you choose, your child will still get quality ABA and learning time.

Benefits of home-based ABA programs for children autism

Home-based programs are great because they allow kids to learn in their own environment. They also allow parents and caretakers to be more closely involved by providing you the opportunity to watch and listen in on sessions. Some reasons you may want to choose a home-based ABA program:

●      Support during your own routines: ABA teams can help support and teach during home routines. For example, that could mean support while your child is playing with and cleaning up their own toys, morning routines and getting ready for the day, mealtime routines, toilet training, or even playing in the yard.      

●      You can be more involved: Parents are often more involved with developing materials and preparing items for home-based programs. This could mean things like printing and laminating cards or organizing toys and bins of materials. Some parents find this added involvement enjoyable, while others don’t – it comes down to personal preference.            

●      It’s a familiar environment: Home-based programs mean you’re in a secure environment that your child knows. Being in a familiar space can be beneficial for younger learners, especially those between one-and-a-half and two-and-a-half years old, or children with anxiety separation.

At Happy Oak, we like to make sure parents, caretakers and kids all feel comfortable. Learn more about our home-based ABA programs for families and children with autism in Vancouver, Richmond, North Vancouver and West Vancouver.  

Benefits of centre-based ABA programs for children autism

Centre-based programs can be an excellent option because they provide a new environment for kids to practice their freshly learned skills. They also provide an opportunity for social skills and friendship development. Some reasons you may want to choose a centre-based ABA program:

●      Learning to follow routines: Depending on the centre, children will get to learn how to follow structured routines that are similar to those in preschool and school settings. This could mean things like lining up to wash their hands before sitting down to have a snack.         

●      Learning social skills: At our centre, we like to incorporate circle times and play between children. This gives us the chance to work on social skills and play skills, such as taking turns and building together.     

●      Materials are provided: ABA centres generally have all the materials needed to develop an individualized program for your child. Some parents will see this as a major benefit (and time-saver) – parents don’t need to manage the team, materials or printing.   

●      Open-door policies: Some centres allow parents to come in and watch their kids in action while others do not. At Happy Oak, we have an open-door policy (while sticking to COVID-19 safety guidelines).

We know families and children often need time to adjust to centre-based programs. At Happy Oak, we like to offer an open-door policy and gradual entry into sessions. This can be a big help for kiddos and parents with higher levels of separation anxiety, and can make everyone feel more at ease when starting a centre-based ABA program.

Learn more about the centre-based program at Happy Oak. We’re based in Vancouver, B.C., and are currently accepting intakes for our early intervention centre-based programming. 

If you have any questions about choosing home-based or centre-based ABA programs, feel free to reach out at info@happyoak.ca.

Yours truly,

Elyssa McKee
M.Ed, Special Education, BCBA
Clinical director, founder and owner
Happy Oak Behavioural Consulting

Serving Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, North Vancouver and West Vancouver