Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

I was told my child should have ABA. Is this program ABA?

Yes, it is based on the principles of ABA. Applied behavior analysis or ABA is a set of principles that guide certain intervention programs. Project ImPACT for Toddlers teaches parents to use strategies based on ABA to teach their children social and communication skills. Because the program is for toddlers, it also uses the principles of developmental science along with the ABA strategies to help with social interaction.

I think my child needs speech & language therapy instead of Project ImPACT. What is the difference?

Many of the strategies used in Project ImPACT for Toddlers are similar to those used in speech and language therapy. Sometimes an SLP might be the one working with you. Whether you work with an SLP or not, you can learn strategies to help your child communicate from your interventionist. As your interventionists gets to know your child, he/she can work with you to decide if more specific work with an SLP is needed.

Can other people who help take care of my child learn the strategies too?

If there are other family members or caregivers who spend time with your child, they are welcome to join you. We recommend that one person attend sessions consistently because the strategies build on each other. But, having other people come can provide support. If some caregivers want to learn but cannot attend the sessions, we recommend sharing the reading materials, or video recording sessions to share with others.

How do I know this program works for children like mine?

There’s a lot of research evidence showing that this program helps children make gains and helps parents feel more confident in addressing their child’s needs. The strategies are based on a long history of research in child development and ABA. Research shows these strategies improve children’s communication and social skills.

Are you recommending this class for me because I need to learn how to be a better parent?

This is not a parenting class. This is a way to give you some strategies to interact a little differently with your child since he/she is learning a little differently than some other children. The interventionist will learn about your child from you, and then will work with you to choose specific strategies that will help your child.

What if I think my child needs more intensive services?

This program is a great way to get you and your child started in early intervention services. The program will help your child adjust to the types of strategies used in more intensive programs, and help you learn the vocabulary and strategies. The interventionist will also be learning more about what your child may need and can help you to identify what the next steps will be after you complete this program.

What will I be doing in these sessions?

Appointments usually start by reviewing some strategies with the interventionist and talking about how it is going using the strategies at home. The interventionist then shows you how to use the strategy with your child and then coaches you while you practice. The interventionist will also talk with you about the best ways to use these strategies at home that work for you and your family.

How will we decide what skills to teach my child?

During the first session or two the interventionist will play with your child, and ask you to play with your child. You will both complete a checklist of skills to see which ones your child can do and which ones he/she may need to learn. Together you will talk about which skills are appropriate for your child and which ones are most important to you and your family. Then you will decide on goals to work on during your time together.

Will I have to set aside a lot of time at home to practice these strategies?

The goal of the program is to help you use the strategies in daily activities and routines that you already do with your child every day. In the beginning you may want to practice at special times, but by the end of the program the strategies will be simple to use throughout the day without adding another thing to your list!