Is ABA appropriate for older children?
There is a popular misconception that ABA is useful or appropriate only for young children (under age 5). This notion probably comes from the remarkable successes of the UCLA Young Autism Project, in which many young children achieved normal functioning. While it may be true that the greatest benefit results from starting very young, this is of no importance when you are considering your child’s future: however old he may be, you need to be sure you are giving him the best possible future. The teaching principles of ABA apply to all people at all ages. It is a science of human behavior. It guides us in how best to achieve goals of skill development or independence regardless of age or disability or ability. Within the limits of your child’s potential, intervention based on ABA principles will help him learn as much as he is able.
