Methodologies
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) offers an alternative means of communication through the use of visuals. Parents and children are taught in stages how to initiate requests and develop more complex expressive language. PECS is often used with children that have a limited vocal repertoire and helps children increase interest in initiating communication and develop the means to communicate with others. PECS is used by GOALS for Autism as it was developed by Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. For more information on PECS please visit, www.pecs-usa.com.
Discrete Trial Training (DTT)- Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is a teaching method developed by O. Ivar Lovaas at University of California, Los Angeles. DTT breaks teaching down into discrete steps and trials to increase success and learning. DTT has been researched and shown to be an effective method of teaching children with Autism and other related disorders.
Pivotal Response Training (PRT)- Pivotal Response Training (PRT) is a natural teaching methodology based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). GOALS for Autism, Inc. uses PRT to teach skills such as communication and eye contact using pivotal behaviors. PRT allows parents and GOALS for Autism staff to teach the child following their lead in a natural environment.
Social Skills Training- GOALS for Autism, Inc. utilizes a variety of research based social skills curriculum to teach new skills. Social skills are taught using developmentally based assessments aligned to curriculum. New skills are initially taught in a 1 to 1 setting and generalized using a multi-step approach designed to meet the needs of the individual child.
