When families consider Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, one common question is: Should my child join group ABA sessions or stick with one-on-one therapy? Both options can be helpful, but group sessions come with unique benefits — and a few challenges too.
Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can make the best decision for your child.
The Pros of Group ABA Therapy
Group ABA therapy sessions create opportunities for kids to learn alongside peers. For many children with autism, this type of setting provides real-world social practice.
Some key advantages include:
- Social skills growth: Kids learn how to share, take turns, and build friendships in a supportive environment.
- Generalization of skills: Skills practiced one-on-one can be applied in group settings, making learning more natural.
- Teamwork and cooperation: Group activities help children develop collaboration and problem-solving skills.
- Confidence building: Being around peers can boost self-esteem and reduce feelings of isolation.
The Cons of Group ABA Therapy
While group ABA sessions have benefits, they’re not always the right fit for every child. Potential drawbacks include:
- Less individualized attention: The therapist’s focus is shared among several children.
- Overstimulation: Noise, movement, and multiple peers can sometimes feel overwhelming.
- Different learning paces: Some kids may progress faster or slower than others, which can affect participation.
- Challenging behaviors: In a group, one child’s behavior might distract or impact others.
The choice often depends on your child’s unique needs. Some families start with one-on-one ABA therapy and later add group sessions for social practice. Others benefit from combining both.
At Connect N Care ABA, we offer flexible options to support your child’s growth. Families can choose in-home ABA therapy, school-based ABA therapy, or center-based ABA therapy where group sessions often take place. We also provide ABA parent training so parents feel confident supporting progress at home.
Families across North Carolina and Virginia can count on us for compassionate, individualized care. If you’re ready to explore the right therapy options for your child, connect with us today.
FAQs
Are group ABA therapy sessions effective?
Yes, they’re especially helpful for building social skills and practicing real-life interactions in a safe, guided setting.
How many kids are in a group ABA session?
It varies, but sessions are typically kept small to allow for individualized support within the group.
Should I choose group or one-on-one ABA therapy?
It depends on your child’s needs. Many families find success with a combination of both.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5358101/
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
- https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-022-04412-1
