All Posts

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is widely recognised as an evidence-based approach for understanding and improving behaviour. However, despite decades of research and practice, ABA is often misunderstood. These misconceptions can make it difficult for parents to make informed decisions about whether ABA is appropriate for their child. Here are some common misconceptions about ABA: Misconception 1: ABA is only for children with autism While ABA is widely known for supportin

In another post titled, “What is Behaviour (Beyond ‘Good’ and ‘Bad’)”, we explored the idea that behaviour is a form of communication. Individuals may engage in certain behaviours to gain attention, escape or avoid a situation, access tangible items or activities, or fulfil sensory needs. In this article, we expand on this concept by emphasising that behaviour does not occur randomly. Instead, it serves a purpose. By understanding the underlying functions of behaviour, profes

Raising children brings both joyful moments and everyday challenges. Many parents find themselves asking: How can I respond to my child’s behaviour in a way that is effective, consistent, and supportive? Managing behaviour at home isn’t about being perfect, it’s about understanding why behaviours happen and using practical, evidence-based strategies to guide your child toward positive habits and independence. Here are 7 practical strategies you can use at home to encourage po

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach widely used to support individuals with diverse learning needs. While traditionally implemented in therapy settings, there is growing interest in applying ABA within classrooms. In Singapore, where classrooms are diverse and fast-paced, ABA can be a helpful tool to support both learning and behaviour when applied in practical ways. With an increasing emphasis on inclusive education, educators are working with stud

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is widely recognised as an evidence-based approach for supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental needs. While centre-based and school-based interventions are common, home-based ABA therapy is increasingly valued in Singapore for its ability to promote real-life learning and family involvement. When implemented thoughtfully, home-based sessions can be both effective and empowering for families and practi

Behavioral interventions have been known to significantly support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), even at low doses and intensity; with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) having been cited as the gold-standard for ASD intervention up to the recent years (Choi et al., 2022; Murillo‐Candelas & Cragin, 2023; Reichow et al., 2018). Such interventions, including ABA, are also recommended for ASD in Singapore by our Institute of Mental Health (Institute of Mental Heal

School readiness skills refer to the foundational abilities that enable a child to participate meaningfully and successfully in a school environment. While school readiness is often associated with academic skills such as letters and numbers recognition, research and practice in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) emphasize that it extends well beyond academics. School readiness encompasses a range of foundational behaviours that support effective learning, engagement, and parti

Within Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practice, Natural Environment Training (NET) and Discrete Trial Training (DTT) are two widely used instructional approaches for supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Each method serves a distinct purpose and offers specific advantages across different learning contexts. Understanding how NET and DTT differ can assist parents, educators, and practitioners in selecting intervention strategies that best meet an individual

Evidence-based practice is something that ABA practitioners often use in relation to ABA therapy. At first glance, it sounds quite straightforward - having some sort of rationale or data to back up the things that you do during your therapy. But what does the term actually mean? Let’s take a closer look. Evidence-based practice has been described to have three main concepts that combine to form a more complete understanding of evidence-based practice. They are: Research Evide

Summary of the key matters discussed at the 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association for Behaviour Analysis (Singapore) conducted on Zoom from 8:02pm to 9:04pm on 13/02/2026. The meeting was chaired by Dr Dominic Leong, President of the Association for Behaviour Analysis Singapore (“President”). The President invited Professor Nigel Marsh of James Cook University (Singapore) to share on the prospective Master’s programme for Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) at Jame

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy is not exclusive to individuals with autism. While it is most widely recognized for its success in supporting children on the autism spectrum, this association largely exists because autism has been the most extensively researched area within the field. The roots of this perception trace back to O. Ivar Lovaas’ landmark study involving 19 young children with autism. His research demonstrated that intensive ABA intervention (up to 20 ho

ABA relies heavily on observing behaviour, so the skills and domains targeted are determined by the assessment tool the behaviour analyst uses. For parents and caregivers, understanding the tool can clarify the rationale behind the goals and interventions. For professionals, this knowledge helps guide the development of appropriate goals in an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). Key Domains Supported by ABA Communication Skills ABA often draws on verbal operants (Skinner,1

Behaviour analysis is the study of mechanisms that influence behaviour as well as how it interacts with learning and education. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based framework that looks to apply these concepts to the world around us. While ABA is most commonly used within the special education context to help learners acquire different skills from - from appropriate classroom etiquette to independent life skills. It has expanded to apply behavioural principle