Reducing & Replacing Maladaptive Behaviors When focusing on behavior reduction a BCBA will first need to conclude the function of the maladaptive behavior. This can be done through a functional assessment/analysis that consists of consultations, observations, data collection and manipulation of environments. Once the functions of the behavior(s) have been determined a substitution for the [...]
Behavior Management in Speech Therapy Behavior Management in Speech Therapy A significant portion of work with children in therapy involves successful management of a number of behavioral difficulties, which often interfere with successful objective completion and goal attainment. Some suggestions for improving behavior involve changing the environment to best suit the child's needs. [...]
4 Occupational Therapy Activities for Kids With Autism Gross motor: Wheelbarrow walking: Wheelbarrow walking is a skill that encourages upper extremity coordination and strength. This helps to increase fine motor skills (cutting, manipulating fasteners on clothing, handwriting, etc.) by increasing stability at the shoulders. Fine/Visual Motor Skills: Mazes. Mazes are great for [...]
4 Occupational Therapy Activities for Kids With Autism Gross motor: Crab Walk. Crab walking challenges one’s agility and balance. It also is a great way to strengthen all muscles in particular the core. In addition this is a great physical activity to work on motor planning. Start out with holding a bridge position and go [...]
Happy 4th of July from First Leap - Enjoy These 4th of July Autism Tips & Crafts! Have a spectacular 4th of July! Read these 4th of July autism tips and learn how to make this loud and bright holiday a easy going one for your loved ones. 4th of July Autism Tips 4th of July Autism Tip # 1: Don't declare [...]
Happy Father's Day from First Leap - Enjoy These Father's Day Autism Tips & Games! First Leap sends their best wishes this Father's Day! Here's some Father's Day autism tips to make this day easier and more fun for HIM and your little one. Father's Day Autism Tips Father's Day Autism Tip # 1: Throw the old pig skin around for [...]
Play & Social Skills Tips for Babies, Toddlers, & Preschoolers There are different levels of play : Solitary Play. Play, without regard to the involvement of other children in the room or playground. A child may build a tower with blocks, yet be oblivious to other nearby children. · Character Play. As the child plays, they observe other children in [...]
Important Areas and Strategies for Instilling Play & Social Skills When considering play and social skills for autistic children, there are a few different areas to think about. Here are some important points to address: Take into account that unstructured play times can be the most difficult times for autistic children so adding some type of structural guidelines to [...]
Autism Speaks' 8k and 1k Fun Run First Leap was proud to sponsor the 1k Fun Run and Kid Zone this year at the Autism Speaks' 8k and 1k Fun Run! There were shoe buddies, balloon tennis, face painting, fishing for prizes, and even a bounce house for all the kids to enjoy after the 1k Fun Run! Our [...]
Positive Reinforcement Ideas at Therapy & Home Speech therapy can be challenging for a host of reasons. It often occurs in small spaces, at a tabletop, and a variety of demands are placed on the child. While the goal of therapy is to work towards achieving goals, it’s also to keep kids motivated. Like most things in life, [...]
