Being Thankful For Progress in ABA Therapy

The Thanksgiving holiday is all about celebrating the things we are grateful for. While some express that gratitude loudly and proudly, it may look different for families who are navigating autism. In ABA Therapy, we strongly encourage celebrating even the small wins and being thankful for any sign of progress. This can show up in a variety of ways, like a child speaking a new word, self-regulating during a meltdown, or working through a tough transition successfully. It can be difficult for some to recognize the importance of small wins, but each one represents growth and effort - and that’s always something to be thankful for. 

All Progress Matters

When beginning ABA therapy, there are likely a set of expectations that parents and caregivers hope to accomplish. While these larger goals are important, the smaller steps that lead to the end goal are where the magic happens. Breaking down a large goal into smaller, more attainable milestones boosts confidence while encouraging growth. These subtle gains may look like a child trying a new food, newfound routine flexibility, clearer communication, or increased independence. 

Why Even Small Wins Matter

Each small step forward helps build confidence and reinforce the effort your child is putting forth. As we recognize and celebrate these instances, it helps create more momentum as the child starts to recognize their abilities backed by strength and determination. For the parent or caregiver, these wins are equally as important. Every tiny bit of progress is a move toward the end goal, and shifting perspective to notice these improvements can help encourage patience and boost hope. 

Celebrating Progress At Home

Reinforcement is an imperative part of ABA therapy. Recognizing and celebrating wins rewards the child for their efforts and keeps momentum building. Here are some ways to incorporate celebration at home:

• Verbal Recognition: Your voice matters more than you know. Consistent praise can not only celebrate their effort but help build a stronger emotional connection. Be sure to let them know when you notice their progress by telling them exactly what you noticed! (Examples: “You worked really hard today!” “It’s amazing you tried something new today.”)

• Record Progress: It can be easy to get overwhelmed and discouraged when navigating autism with your child. Consider creating a progress journal to jot down every victory, no matter how big or small. This record keeping is a good way to remind yourself how far things have come, particularly when you're having a hard day. 

• Visual Celebrations: If there’s one thing ABA therapy loves, it’s a good reward chart! A fun sticker chart is a great way to visually show progress in an interactive way that children often find exciting. To expand on visual celebrations, you can create a victory bulletin board where you pin photos of successful moments. 

When Progress Feels Stalled

Progress isn’t a linear thing - there can be small and large steps forward, and there can also be setbacks. That’s okay! Both parents and children are adapting and learning new tools, and that can get overwhelming at times. That’s where the professional support of an experienced ABA therapist can help. We can help reframe those difficult moments and guide you and your family back onto the path your child needs. We use ongoing data along with our structured strategies to help children develop the skills they need to move forward on their terms. 

If you’d like support in helping your child build skills, improve confidence and move forward, we’re happy to help. Our compassionate team brings a personalized approach specific to each child. The goal is always to inform, educate, empower and improve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to see if Bloom Behavioral Healthcare can help your family - one win at a time. 

And remember, stay grateful for every single win - they all matter!

We hope your family has a wonderful Thanksgiving!