Avanza ABA

Learning Through Puzzles
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We have found puzzles to be one of the most effective and engaging tools for early learning. They promote problem-solving skills as children experiment with different pieces, rotate them to find the correct fit, and learn to move on when a piece does not belong. This process encourages persistence, flexibility, and critical thinking.

The visual and hands-on nature of puzzles makes them especially valuable for young learners. Children can carefully examine shapes, colors, and patterns while working toward a clear goal. Because the challenge is tangible and immediately visible, puzzles provide meaningful opportunities to practice problem-solving in an engaging and rewarding way.

Although it may not be an obvious benefit, puzzles also support language development. Through hands-on interaction, children begin to understand how their actions affect the world around them. Because auditory information can sometimes be difficult for young children to process and interpret, engaging first with tangible and visual stimuli provides a strong foundation for learning.

As children manipulate puzzle pieces, they build connections between actions and objects, helping to strengthen both comprehension and communication skills.

How AAC Devices Support Communication in ABA Therapy

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In ABA Therapy, increasing functional communication is one of our main priorities, as all individuals benefit from having a reliable way to communicate what they need. When a child has difficulty expressing wants, needs, thoughts, or feelings, it can affect learning, behavior, social interaction, and independence. AAC devices can play an important role in increasing a child's functional forms of communication.

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What is an AAC device?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. In simple terms, it refers to tools or systems that help individuals communicate in ways other than spoken language alone. While communication may look different from person to person, the goal remains the same: helping the individual effectively express wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings. These tools can include speech-generating devices, communication apps on tablets, picture-based systems, or other supports that help individuals communicate more effectively.

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Will Using an AAC Device Prevent a Child From Learning to Speak?

A common misconception is that using an AAC device will take place of vocal speech and prevent a child from learning to speak. However, in many instances, evidence shows AAC use is associated with increased vocal communication, language development, and overall communication skills. As with any intervention, outcomes will vary from person to person based on an individual's unique strengths, needs, and abilities. Regardless of the communication method used, having a reliable way to communicate can help individuals express their needs more effectively, reduce frustration, and participate more fully in everyday life.

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AAC Supports Functional Communication

One of the biggest advantages of AAC is that it gives children a more reliable way to effectively communicate in everyday situations. Instead of relying solely on gestures, screaming, or physical means to communicate, children can learn how to request items, ask for help, make choices, answer questions, and participate more fully in daily routines.

When communication becomes easier, many children experience less frustration and greater confidence. AAC devices can provide a clearer and more efficient way for a child to communicate, which may help reduce situations in which they are struggling to be understood.

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AAC Should Be Individualized

Not every AAC system is the same, and not every child benefits from the same type of support.

A strong AAC plan should consider:

> The child’s current communication abilities
> Motor skills and physical access
> Attention and learning style
> Family routines and priorities

Collaboration between families, BCBAs, speech-language pathologists, teachers, and other professionals can help create a communication system that is practical, meaningful, and sustainable.

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AAC in a Relationship-Based Approach

The goal is meaningful communication with others. AAC can be incorporated into natural interactions, play, routines, and social experiences so children learn how communication helps them connect with other people and navigate everyday life.

When implemented thoughtfully and consistently, AAC can become a powerful tool that supports communication, learning, independence, and long-term growth. If you have questions about AAC, our team would be happy to discuss how it may support your child’s communication development.

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Contact Avanza ABA to learn more:

Lansing: 517-798-6978
Kalamazoo: 269-205-8674
Email: [email protected]

Be sure to stop by our table today at the Navigating Autism Today 2026 Conference!

Talk to our owner and get a better understanding of ABA therapy and how it may help your child.

Parents: Track your child's Developmental Milestones and share them with your child's doctor using CDC's FREE Milestone Tracker app available in English and Spanish! www.cdc.gov/MilestoneTracker

Navigating Insurance for ABA Therapy

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Many families have questions about the financial side of treatment and how insurance works. Over the years, we have partnered with a variety of insurance providers to effectively learn and understand the process. Our goal is to make this part simple and transparent. We are always happy to verify your benefits and walk you through exactly what your plan covers before services begin.

We are currently in network with:

Blue Cross Blue Shield
Aetna
Optum/United Healthcare
Cigna
Magellan
Priority Heath
CHAMPVA

Understanding Common Insurance Terms
(The specific amounts vary by plan. We will review your individual benefits with you.)
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Deductible:
This is the amount your family is responsible for before insurance begins contributing toward services. Once your deductible is met, your plan typically covers a significant portion of therapy.
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Co‑pay:
A fixed amount you pay for each therapy session (for example, $25–$30 per visit).
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Co‑insurance:
Instead of a flat co‑pay, some plans require a percentage of the total session cost (for example, 20%).
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Out‑of‑Pocket Maximum:
This is the most your family will pay for covered, in‑network services during a plan year. Once this limit is reached—through deductibles, co‑pays, and/or co‑insurance—your insurance typically covers 100% of covered services for the remainder of that calendar year.

Understanding your out‑of‑pocket maximum can be especially reassuring. Although families may have some cost-sharing at the beginning of services, there is a defined financial ceiling as part of the plan.



If you ever have questions about billing, coverage, or authorizations, our team is here to guide you step‑by‑step so you can focus on your child’s progress.

Join us in 3 weeks -

Avanza ABA will be attending the 2026 Navigating Autism Today Conference, hosted by the Autism Alliance of Michigan, on March 6, 2026 at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi.

Stop by our table anytime between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to learn more about ABA therapy and ask any questions. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our owner, Chris, and connect one-on-one to learn how we support children, young people, and families in Michigan.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hiring in Michigan

Looking for Behavior Technicians interested in part-time, direct client work with a BCBA-owned ABA practice.

📍 Serving Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Detroit Metro
🏠 In-home services

This is a great fit for individuals seeking a calm, balanced work environment that allows time and space to build meaningful connections with clients and families.

What’s offered:
✔ Flexible part-time schedules
✔ Generous hourly compensation
✔ Supportive, therapeutic culture
✔ Real impact with the families you serve

Learn more at www.avanzaaba.com/join-our-team

Helping Siblings Thrive with ABA
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Autism doesn’t just impact one child — it affects everyone in the family. Siblings may wonder why their brother or sister sometimes gets upset or gets extra attention. We know parents can feel overwhelmed managing challenging moments with one child, which naturally may lead to uncertainty in how to approach siblings.

That’s why family guidance during ABA sessions should go beyond just parents. Siblings also have the option to participate in therapy activities! During our ABA therapy sessions, we create opportunities for kids to play together, take turns, share, and handle winning or losing with good sportsmanship.

As children build more positive interactions with their siblings, they’re likely to respond with more kindness and empathy toward one another. Siblings are also valuable practice partners because they closely resemble the peers our learners meet in the world.

When siblings pitch in to teach and celebrate progress, they feel connected and proud — and that creates a stronger bond for everyone. If you’d like to learn more about how we create these special moments, we’d love to talk with you to share further details!

Call: 517-798-6978
Email: [email protected]

Easily schedule an initial consultation on our website (link in bio).

Values-Based ABA Therapy
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We really mean it when we say we take a values-based approach to ABA therapy. It sounds nice—but what does that actually look like in practice?

For us, it means always going back to one important question as we support someone: “Is what we’re doing really helping to improve this person's life in a meaningful way? Are we truly adding value with this activity?” If the answer is “no,” then it’s time to pause and rethink. Everything we do in the present should connect to a bigger, long-term goal that makes a real difference for the individual we’re working with.

For example, let’s say one long-term goal is teaching someone to take turns during a game. We might begin with structured practice to support that skill. But if we notice that the person seems frustrated, is asking for frequent breaks, or just isn’t connecting with the activity—we don’t force it. Continuing would likely not add value to their life in that moment. Instead, we see it as a signal: time to reassess.

So we pause, reflect, and ask ourselves:

-Is this actually an enjoyable activity for the person? Can we provide more options?

-Is this an activity they will realistically encounter in school, at home, or in the community?

-Can we break it down into smaller, more achievable steps?

-Are there other basic skills we should focus on first?

These kinds of questions help us make sure our therapy stays grounded in a values-based approach—always focused on what is truly meaningful or useful to the individual, based on their own needs, goals, and preferences. As therapy providers, we have to be especially attentive to these details when we are working with people with autism or other communication disorders who may not be able to express their needs easily. Feel free to follow our page for more on how our ABA treatment model adapts to support each unique person we serve.