Resources for Families
Helpful programs and plain-language explanations of common ABA terms.
State programs that may help
These Wisconsin programs can help fund services and supports for individuals with disabilities.
IRIS Program
IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) is a Wisconsin Medicaid long-term care option for adults with disabilities. IRIS allows participants to self-direct their own services and supports, giving individuals and families more control over how funding is used to meet their needs.
Visit DHS websiteCLTS Program
The Children's Long-Term Support (CLTS) Waiver Program provides funding for services and supports to children with disabilities and their families in Wisconsin. CLTS can help cover a range of services that support the child's development and the family's ability to care for them at home.
Visit DHS websiteABA terms in plain language
You don't need a degree in behavioral science to understand your loved one's program. Here are some common terms, explained simply.
Reinforcement is simply what happens after a behavior that makes it more likely to happen again. Think of it as encouragement that works. When someone does something well — like completing a morning routine or initiating a conversation — we follow it with something positive (praise, a preferred activity, a break) so they're motivated to do it again. The key is that reinforcement is personalized: what motivates one person might not motivate another.
Generalization means that a skill learned in one setting or with one person transfers to other settings and people. For example, if someone learns to make a sandwich during a session at home, generalization means they can also make a sandwich at a friend's house, in a different kitchen, or with different ingredients. This is why we practice skills in real-world environments — so learning sticks beyond the therapy session.
Skill acquisition is the process of teaching someone a new skill they don't currently have. This could be anything from brushing their teeth independently to navigating public transportation or having a conversation at work. Skills are broken down into smaller, teachable steps and built up gradually, with lots of practice and positive reinforcement along the way.
Being data-driven means we don't rely on guesswork to know whether something is working. During sessions, we collect information on how your loved one is doing — tracking progress on each goal over time. This data tells us when to celebrate growth, when to adjust strategies, and when to set new goals. It also gives families a clear, objective picture of their loved one's progress.
A person-centered approach means that the individual is at the heart of every decision. Their preferences, strengths, interests, and goals guide the entire program — not a standard template. It means we listen first, respect each person's autonomy, and build a program that reflects who they are and what they want for their life.