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The Skills Intervention Program (Skip) utilizes Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques such as discrete trial teaching, positive reinforcement, and extensive data collection to increase the students' skills set. Each ABA Specialist is trained by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to implement the ABLLS (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills), lead structured group activities, and provide effective one-on-one instructional time.

Goals of SkIP are to recreate a preschool and elementary school environment to better teach the children how to appropriately integrate into a typical classroom setting. This is accomplished through planned group activities such as calendar time, circle time, story time, and art. The majority of the students' days will be spent in one-on-one time with an ABA Specialist. Children and ABA Specialists will work on their individual academic goals as determined by the ABLLS assessment given in the first weeks of the program. Parent training is a participation requirement through the grant. There may be specific cases which require limited in-home work with the child and one of the BCBAs at ABA-SkIP.

SkIP is a great opportunity for any child with a developmental disability who plans to enter the public school system.

ABA-SkIP is designed for children ages 3 - 10 years old with autism or developmental disabilities and delays in language, motor skills, academic skills, play skills, as well as, inappropriate classroom behaviors.

The first step in the process is to contact the Program Director, Melinda Benjumea at 713/970-8241. Your child's name will be added to the interest list and you will be contacted by the IDD Eligibility and Determination unit at MHMRA to discuss other services. The family can also let their MHMRA Service Coordinator know they would like to have their child placed on the interest list. If the consumer does not have a Service Coordinator visit this link to learn how to access MHMRA services.

Families, providers or caregivers arrange transportation to and from Skip. Consumers with special transportation needs should contact their service coordinators to find out if they are eligible for transportation assistance.

Families wishing to use grants funds to supplement the cost of this service will be assessed a fee based on the ability to pay. A sliding fee scale will be used to determine the amount each family will pay and all third party insurance companies will be billed. Families will be placed on an interest list to receive services and will be contacted when their name comes to the top of the interest list.

A private pay track is also available for families who wish to pay the total cost of the program and forego the waiting list. Families who would like to pursue a private pay option should contact (713) 970-7930. Third party insurances are also billed for this service, thus reducing the family's costs.

Children are enrolled into ABA-SkIP for a maximum of two years. The program operates Monday through Thursday and offers either morning or afternoon sessions.