THE ROLE OF THE SMART ABA METHOD IN TEACHING AND TRAINING SPEECH IN AUTISTIC CHILDREN
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Abstract
Deficits in speech are one of the core characteristics commonly found in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Such difficulties often create barriers in communication, social interaction, and daily functioning. This study aims to examine the role of the Smart ABA method in teaching and training speech in children with ASD, particularly through the use of imitation techniques. The research employed an experimental procedure with a single subject design. The participants were two children with ASD aged three and five years. During the initial assessment, both children showed significant developmental challenges, including the inability to speak or sit independently, minimal eye contact, high levels of hyperactivity, frequent tantrums, sleep disturbances at night, and repetitive behaviors. The intervention was conducted by therapists who had already been certified as Smart ABA therapists through formal training and supervised internships. The results demonstrated that both children successfully developed the ability to speak by imitating five words each, achieved within 89.6 and 136 days respectively. These findings suggest that the Smart ABA method can effectively facilitate the acquisition of speech skills in children with ASD. Furthermore, the method not only addresses speech deficits but also contributes to improving broader developmental challenges. The systematic application of Smart ABA highlights its potential as a structured and evidence-based intervention for speech development in children with ASD.
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