Doing things together as a family can be challenging for any family with young children. For families with children with autism, everyday situations like going to the store or play-time can present additional challenges.
For families like the Huffs, who have two sons under age 10 and both diagnosed with autism, Inner Circle has helped them experience more of life together, like going out to eat as a family.
“I have two beautiful boys in ABA therapy here, and Inner Circle has helped tremendously with our quality of life,” said Christiana Huff, Inner Circle parent.
Inner Circle’s ABA programs helped each of her sons learn to more effectively navigate real-world situations, like taking turns or sharing toys. By learning and practicing everyday skills and behaviors, Huff and her family can enjoy more activities together.
Now, when they go to the grocery store, her sons hold on to the grocery cart and stay close to mom. She doesn’t worry as much about them leaving her side and potentially getting lost or hurt. When the family sits down together at a restaurant, her sons can rely on the skills they’ve learned at Inner Circle, like staying at the table and playing games while waiting, and the family can enjoy the experience together. “It has really made a difference to be able to enjoy those outings and not have them be a stressor,” Huff said.
The Impact of ABA on Sibling Relationships
Of course, any family activity is made more difficult when siblings aren’t getting along. The Huff boys’ programs helped them learn essential skills like sharing, waiting their turn, and communicating their wants and needs. These skills and behaviors foster healthy sibling relationships that contribute to a better quality of life for the family as a whole.
One of the Huff family’s major goals in terms of the boys’ relationship was sharing.
During their initial assessment, Inner Circle’s team worked closely with the Huffs to identify this goal and create consistent opportunities for each of the boys to practice sharing and positive play interactions throughout their programs. Huff noted that learning these foundational skills has helped her sons grow closer as brothers.
“They’re interacting with one another more appropriately and I’ve enjoyed watching the progress both boys have made,” said Huff. “Seeing their bond and their communication blossom is wonderful.”
Enhancing a family’s quality of life starts when Inner Circle supports children in building the communication, social, and motor skills to confidently navigate daily activities and routines.
“There’s no handbook for parenting a child with autism, but we believe that every child can grow and learn,” said Tristan Matz, Inner Circle RBT.
Learn more and see how ABA therapy can enhance your family’s quality of life.