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If you are the parent of a child with autism or other developmental needs in Lagos, you have likely heard the term “ABA therapy” – Applied Behaviour Analysis. It is one of the most widely recommended and evidence-based interventions for children on the autism spectrum. But what actually is it? How does it work? And what should you expect if your child begins an ABA programme in Lagos?
What Is ABA Therapy?
ABA is a scientific approach to understanding and changing behaviour. In simple terms, it breaks down complex skills into small, teachable steps and uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviours. It is grounded in decades of research and is recognised by health authorities around the world as an effective intervention for autism spectrum disorder.
At its heart, ABA asks: what is the function of a child’s behaviour? Instead of simply trying to stop a challenging behaviour, ABA seeks to understand what the child is communicating through that behaviour and teach them a more appropriate way to communicate the same need.
Who Can Benefit from ABA?
ABA is most commonly associated with autism, but it can benefit children with a range of developmental needs, including:
- Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Children with speech and language delays
- Children with learning difficulties
- Children with social communication challenges
The key is that ABA is highly individualised. No two children have the same ABA plan. A qualified ABA therapist assesses your child’s specific strengths and challenges and designs a programme tailored to them.
What Skills Does ABA Teach?
ABA therapy can address a wide range of skills, including:
- Communication: Requesting items, naming objects, making eye contact, initiating conversation.
- Social skills: Taking turns, sharing, joining group activities, understanding social cues.
- Daily living skills: Toileting, dressing, feeding, brushing teeth.
- Academic skills: Pre-reading, counting, following instructions in a classroom setting.
- Reducing challenging behaviours: Aggression, self-injury, elopement (running away), and severe meltdowns – by teaching replacement behaviours that serve the same function.
What Does an ABA Session Look Like?
A typical ABA session in a Lagos school setting may involve:
- One-on-one work: A trained therapist works directly with your child, often at a table or on the floor, using toys, pictures, and other materials.
- Natural environment teaching: The therapist follows the child’s lead during play and uses everyday moments to teach skills.
- Discrete trial training (DTT): Breaking a skill into tiny steps and teaching each step through repeated, structured practice with reinforcement.
- Data collection: The therapist records each trial and response, tracking progress session by session. This data-driven approach is what makes ABA so effective – decisions are based on evidence, not guesswork.
Sessions are typically between two and four hours, and many children receive between 10 and 30 hours of therapy per week, depending on their needs.
Is ABA Available in Lagos?
Yes. ABA therapy is growing in availability across Lagos, including in Lekki. Some schools – including Pleasant Places School – integrate ABA principles into their SEN support programmes. There are also private ABA centres and therapists who offer home-based or centre-based therapy.
When choosing an ABA provider in Lagos, look for:
- Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBA) or therapists trained and supervised by a BCBA
- A clear assessment process before therapy begins
- Regular progress reports and parent meetings
- A centre that involves parents in the therapy process, training you to reinforce skills at home
Common Concerns About ABA
ABA has evolved significantly over the years. Modern ABA is play-based, child-led, and focused on building skills rather than simply eliminating behaviours. It should never involve punishment or forced compliance. If a provider suggests anything that feels harsh or coercive, look elsewhere.
How to Start ABA Therapy for Your Child
If you think ABA might be right for your child, the first step is an assessment. A qualified behaviour analyst will spend time observing your child, speaking with you, and reviewing any previous assessments or diagnoses. They will then develop a personalised treatment plan with specific goals and a recommended number of therapy hours per week.
At Pleasant Places School, our SEN team can help you understand whether ABA is appropriate for your child and connect you with trusted providers in Lagos. We believe every child deserves the support they need to thrive, and we are here to help you navigate the options.
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