FAQ
At SPARK, we refer to a comprehensive assessment as one that looks at all aspects of a child’s speech and language skills and behaviour. It would include informal and formal measures to evaluate speech and language as well as behavioural observation and analysis. We know that communication is a form of behaviour. This means that when communication goes well the child has learned functional and appropriate ways of getting their needs and wants met. When communication breaks down we often will see frustration which can look like tears, shutting down, or sometimes even outbursts. A lack of communication has a significant impact on a child’s ability to cope with emotions and to learn. When we pair together speech and language and behavioural services, we are able to dive into a child’s optimal learning state and provide a plan that is highly individualized to meet their needs. By working together towards a common goal, we see lasting progress and best outcomes for the clients and families we serve.
Speech and language refers to a set of communication skills that are most often looked at as part of developmental milestones. It is broken down into 3 main components, speech, receptive language and expressive language. Speech refers to how a person produces sounds or their articulation. It would include how sounds and words sound when they are said. Language includes both receptive and expressive components. Receptive language refers to what a person understands, or their comprehension, and expressive language refers to what a person can express or say. All three of these components are essential in speech and language development and participation in learning environments.
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based practice. This means that there is a lot of scientific research that has shown that ABA is the most effective way to influence behaviour. Using assessment and observation, a Behaviour Analyst can define the components that are leading to and maintaining individual behaviour. These often consist of factors leading up to how an individual behaves, and elements that occur immediately after that behaviour has been observed. There are many factors that influence behaviour, including environment, motivation, and interactions with others. ABA is a way that we can maximize a child’s optimal learning state in order to teach new skills, decrease challenging behaviours, and reach their desired potential.
Services at SPARK Collaborative Practices can be covered by some extended health benefit plans. Insurance coverage and benefits are specific to your individual or company plan. We recommend you investigate the details of your extended benefits package through your insurance provider as you may have coverage for services at SPARK.
