Ordinarily, we hear the use of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as the gold-standard method for teaching children with autism. So, it may come as a surprise to learn that it's an equally beneficial strategy to use with children with Down syndrome. The authors have extensively examined ABA principles and methods and incorporated them into a curriculum for young children with Down syndrome, and now share their findings and expertise in this book for parents of and professionals serving infants through kindergarteners. This comprehensive, up-to-date book (and its companion Book 2) fills an over twenty-year gap in the literature about using ABA with children with Down syndrome. The authors' approach is to target skills which are identified as areas of weakness characteristic of children with Down syndrome, such as auditory processing skills. Then the evidence-based strategies of ABA are used to tailor interventions which build upon typical strengths of children with Down syndrome -- visual learning and social interest, for example. Finally, the authors highly recommend that interventions be implemented alongside typically developing peers, citing better outcomes than in restricted environments solely with other children with disabilities. Book 1 provides background information about the Down syndrome behavioral phenotype with its characteristic strengths and weaknesses; an overview of ABA and how to apply its principles and strategies to teach motor, social-communication, cognitive, and self-care skills while minimizing behavior which interferes with learning; and how to build a team of caregivers and professionals to teach and support children and get services delivered.

The book's photos, real-life examples, helpful hints, additional sections offering advanced information, success stories, planning sheets, and progress trackers, and extensive resources will aid parents and professionals in getting started.