At Burton Analytics, our Functional Communication Training (FCT) programs are designed to teach children with behavioral challenges alternative, socially acceptable ways to express their needs and wants.
By providing children with the tools to communicate clearly and appropriately, we can reduce problem behaviors that often stem from frustration or unmet needs. Our FCT programs focus on teaching functional communication skills, such as vocalizations, sign language, Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS), and verbal behavior.
Our experienced behavior analysts work closely with each child to identify their unique communication needs and develop a tailored functional communication training plan. We use a variety of evidence-based teaching strategies, including positive reinforcement, prompting, shaping, and differential reinforcement. By rewarding appropriate communication attempts, providing assistance when needed, gradually increasing the complexity of communication behaviors, and reinforcing appropriate communication while ignoring or redirecting problem behaviors, we help children develop effective communication skills.
One of the core principles of FCT is to teach children to use functional communication to access desired items or activities. For example, if a child wants a toy, they can use a picture card, sign language, or vocalization to request it. By reinforcing these functional communication behaviors, we teach children that communication is a more effective way to get their needs met than engaging in problem behaviors.
In addition to teaching functional communication skills, we also work on increasing the frequency and complexity of communication. This may involve teaching children to use more complex sentences, to communicate across different settings, and to initiate communication with others. By gradually increasing the demands on children’s communication skills, we help them become more independent and confident communicators.
If you’re concerned about your child’s communication skills and behavior, we encourage you to reach out to Burton Analytics. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping your child develop the skills they need to succeed.
