We made the decision to stop ABA when it no longer seemed to be helping our son. The goals they were setting for him seemed unrealistic and he started regressing behaviorally. Instead, we started RDI, which is Relationship Development Intervention. This is a consultant based therapy where much of the work is done in the home by the parents, the people in the child's life that know him or her best. It is a lot of work, I won't deny that, but I'd done well and with a competent consultant, I will work wonders for the growth in socialization between you and your child!

My sons both had ABA, mainly for behavioral issues. My youngest's school convinced us that he didn't need it anymore. BIG mistake. Now we're having a helluva time trying to get it back. It's better to keep the ABA, even if goals are met. In our case, the goals were met, but things went downhill fast once ABA was stopped.

We started ABA when he was 4 and he's almost 6 now. While he has met so many goals, new ones keep popping up. For each year there are new things they should be learning and doing. As they get to school age, there are a ton more, with social situatons, understanding school work, etc.Iit's something that can be adapted to meet their current needs, whatever they are at the time. My son went from needing 40hrs to needing 20-30 hrs. They just graduate them down depending on how much they need at the time. It may be 1-2 days per week for a couple hours or it might be 5 days a week all day. They really go by what your child needs and what's right for your family.

If you can still afford it or it is covered by your insurance there is no reason to stop - there will be issues every year as your child gets older that he/she still may need some behavior help with and whatever you learn from the professionals you can apply the rest of the day.

I agree with all of the above. ABA will help your child throughout his life, take advantage of it for as long as possible. Every year will bring new challenges in behavior, academics, social skills...ABA can help with all of these things. Also take advantage of parent training to help you and your family navigate through tough situations when the therapists are not around. Children change as they grow and so will his therapy needs. I am so happy that you have the opportunity to receive these services. My son is 12 and for years I did "therapy" on my own by reading books, attending seminars, and learning all I could. I still do all those things but now I have a sounding block to not only bounce ideas off of, but that has the training and network to get me all the latest and greatest information out there. Emotionally this is such a relief! His therapist is like apart of our family. Take care and I wish you and your family the best!