When working in a school or just learning the ins and outs of advocating for your child, the lingo and jargon can be challenging. I have created a list of common words, acronyms and phrases and defined them using lay terms. 

AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication): Any form of communication that is not vocal speech. Can include sign language, picture exchange systems, digital speaking devices, and so on.

 

ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder): A condition that affects how a person communicates and interacts with others. People with autism might find it challenging to understand social cues, such as facial expressions or body language, and may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or non-verbally. They may also have specific interests or repetitive behaviors. Autism is considered a spectrum disorder, which means that it can vary widely from person to person in terms of its symptoms and severity.

 

ASL (American Sign Language): A way of communicating using hand movements, facial expressions, and body language instead of spoken words. It's a language that's primarily used by people who are hearing impaired.

 

BCBA/BA/BC (Board Certified Behavior Analyst): Someone who is trained and certified to understand and help encourage positive behavior change. They use scientific methods to figure out why people do certain things and develop plans to help them learn new behaviors or reduce unwanted ones. They work with individuals of all ages, from children with autism to adults with behavioral challenges, and often collaborate with families, schools, and other professionals to create effective strategies for positive change.

 

BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan): Outlines specific, individualized strategies and techniques that can be used to address the problem behavior and teach more appropriate behaviors. The goal of the BIP is to inform staff how to intervene with challenging behavior and the strategies that should be used to encourage an individual's appropriate behavior change. 

 

CST (Child Study Team): A group of professionals who work together to help children who may require modifications and accommodations while in school. This team usually includes teachers, school psychologists, counselors, and other specialists such as the occupational therapist, social worker, and behaviorist. They meet to talk about a child's needs, strengths, and challenges, and to come up with a plan to support the child's learning and development. The team may assess the child's abilities, provide support services, and collaborate with parents and teachers to create strategies for success in school.

​

DTT/ITT (Discrete Trial Teaching; Intensive Teaching Trials): 

 

FBA (Functional Behavior Assessment): 

 

IEP: Individualized Education Plan

 

NET: Natural Environment Teaching

 

OT: Occupational Therapy

 

PECS: Picture Exchange Communication System

 

PT: Physical Therapy

 

SAP: Skill Acquisition Plan

 

SLP: Speech and Language Pathologist

 

TES: Token Economy System

 

VB-MAPP: Verbal Behavior Milestones and Assessment Placement Program