ABA therapy and school serve different purposes, so ABA therapy cannot fully replace school. While Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) focuses on improving behaviors, communication, social skills, and daily living, school provides academic instruction, social interaction with peers, and broader educational development.
That said, for some children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who need intensive support, ABA therapy may temporarily take the place of school, especially during early intervention years. This is often done with the goal of preparing the child to eventually transition into a classroom setting.
ABA can also be used to support school success. Many children receive ABA therapy after school or in combination with special education services. In some cases, therapists work alongside schools to help the child adapt and thrive in academic environments.
The ideal approach depends on the child’s needs, age, and developmental goals.
Looking for ABA support for your child?
At Epic Minds ABA, we offer personalized ABA therapy plans in North Carolina that help children succeed both in and outside the classroom.
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SOURCES:
https://medicine.iu.edu/blogs/pediatrics/child-development-choosing-between-aba-therapy-and-school
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11487924
https://childmind.org/article/controversy-around-applied-behavior-analysis
https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
A Comparative Look at School-Based and Center-Based ABA Programs