Most children with autism grew up to be adults placed permanently in group homes or other supervised care. Only in the last few years has Applied Behaviour Analysis for young children with autism become widely known, even though research in this area began in 1960. Studies published in peer reviewed journals show almost half the children make so much progress that they become indistinguishable from other children their age. The remaining children in the studies made far more progress than those children in the control group. ABA is not a miracle cure, or a magic bullet.
ABA takes a lot of hard work over many months.
Progress is systematic and methodical, and is confirmed through extensive data keeping. Clearly, children with autism need ABA treatment. In Manitoba, this treatment only exists because parents have taken the initiative. A few parents have hired and trained tutors to work with their children 40 hours per week. Licensed Psychologists, experienced in this particular treatment, are brought in from out of province to train, supervise and advise on treatment.