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GABA OCEANSIDE Open House
May 2007
GABA OCEANSIDE program would like to invite everyone to our first “Open House” on June 14, from 3:30-6:30 at Family Resource Association, 181 W Sunningdale, Qualicum Beach.
GABA stands for “group” ABA. ABA is Applied Behavior Analysis, the only scientifically proven method of successfully teaching children with Autism. GABA offers a group social setting for families looking for an alternative to a home-based program of intensive intervention. GABA “O” is licensed to accommodate 7 children with 5 behavior interventionists. The behaviour interventionists have participated in verbal behaviour training taught by Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
The program operates Monday to Friday 8:45 till 2:00. The children are scheduled for individual intensive teaching (IT) sessions focused on each child’s specific programs and targets that have been selected after an initial Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills (ABLLS). Children also participate in NET (Natural Environment Teaching) which is guided play providing opportunities for spontaneity and generalization of skills taught during IT. Some of the activities include puzzle play, play dough, gross motor activities, pretend play, cars, games, and Lego. During NET, the BIs engage at least two children together in play and social activities, employing turn-taking, winning and losing, initiating conversation, requesting material and information and following routines. Children have snack time and lunch, which are additional learning activities full of opportunities to make requests (manding). During circle time children learn popular songs, follow routines, and are actively involved in finger plays and singing. The program is supervised by behavior consultants on a weekly basis to provide program development, effective communication and hands-on support.
Two parent meetings are held each month. One meeting is scheduled in the evening with Dr. Jacobsen (a well respected autism specialist from Vancouver)
so parents can ask questions, share stories, and become educated on various topics in Verbal Behavior and Autism. Parents are also offered support for other concerns including sleep issues, feeding troubles, toilet-training and school readiness skills. Parents get the opportunity to see video of their children participating in their program. Parents also meet with the Program Manager monthly to review their child’s individual program and targets for the month.
GABA “O” has only been open since January but the children have made tremendous growth in the development of their language and other skills. A very special bond has developed between the interventionists and the children. Please drop by and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have concerning GABA “O”.
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