What are Social Groups?
How does programming specifically support diverse needs?
ABA Connections provides group services that are designed and facilitated by ABA-trained therapists and supported by ABA-trained volunteers. The programming is run using ABA-based strategies that include pairing and positive reinforcement.
Facilitators use their skills and experience to motivate the participants to engage in learning activities; and, incorporate fun, interactive, and practical components to allow for opportunities to practice skills, encourage a better understanding of the concepts, and to support generalization.
What can I do to support learning activities outside of the group environment?
Many skill development groups include a positive practice take-home sheet or debriefs at pick-up from the group facilitators. This provides opportunities for parents and caregivers to know what concepts are being taught and practiced in the group setting. Generalization of skills outside of the group environment is critical to success and all parents and caregivers are encouraged to incorporate lessons in the child's daily life in the home and school environment, where possible.
How do I know which group is right for my child or youth?
Selecting a group program that is a good fit for your child or youth is not always easy, and we don't always get it right the first time. Our groups are designed based on skill-level rather than age, so all age ranges are suggestions. If there is a group that you think your child might be interested in, connect with us to discuss your options.
We have additional details about each group in our service guide - you can CLICK HERE to learn more about what groups are running at any given time! to learn more about what groups are running at any given time!
For more specific questions or concerns, you can always contact our Group Coordinator and they can support you in selecting a group that meets your needs.
My child struggles with aggression, can I still enroll them in a group program?
ABA Connections offers group services at a ratio of 3:1 (children:facilitator). Therefore, all group participants must be able to safely participate within this ratio.
To ensure the safety of all group participants, children with aggression towards adults or peers are not permitted in the group setting. If a group participant engages in aggressive or violent behaviours during a group session, they will not be permitted to return to the center for future sessions.
ABA Connections does offer 1:1 supports and can develop programming to address aggression with the end goal of group participation.
Do I need to have a diagnosis to register my child for a group?
Our groups are designed for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder, however we are an inclusive centre and do not require any diagnosis for individual or group services. We run our groups using the principles of ABA and this method is effective for children and youth of all ages and abilities.
Can I use funding for Social Groups?
Absolutely! Many families are able to use funding to access our Clinical Social Group Programs. ABA Connections accepts Childhood Budget, Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Core Clinical Services, Special Services at Home, Passport Funding and Private Insurance (coverage varies by provider and plan) for eligible participants.
Social Groups are considered evidence-based, goal-oriented programming, and families receive initial assessments and ongoing documentation that meet funding and audit requirements.
However, funding eligibility can vary depending on your child’s plan and the type of support needed, we encourage families to contact our Clinical Director or Group Coordinator for assistance in determining how your specific funding can be applied.