The Arc, Ocean County Chapter is committed to enhancing both the skills and culture of our participants and staff to address a wide range of behaviors, including communication, socialization, and daily living skills.

Our BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), Kimberly Sclarow, works closely with staff and participants in our residential and day programs to integrate Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)—a scientifically proven approach to behavior change—into everyday practices to address these behaviors and train staff on how to best interact with them. The core goals of Kim's approaches to ABA are to encourage positive behaviors, promote happiness, and reduce challenges by using antecedent-based approaches and fostering consistency across team members.

Many of us already use ABA techniques without realizing it. For example, setting a calendar reminder for a meeting or using an alarm to signal a task is an antecedent strategy in action. Similarly, when a participant notices a peer who is feeling down, approaches them with a friendly gesture, and asks if they need anything, when staff responds with positive reinforcement (such as a high five) that’s an example of a consequence strategy aimed at building social skills.

ABA is a powerful tool for individuals of all ages and abilities, and understanding and applying the principles of ABA can be transformative. It turns uncertainty into empowerment, providing a clear framework for trial, learning, and improvement. The more we apply ABA to promote better behaviors, the more successful we all become—both at home and in the workplace.