- A goal names who, what, when, how well and how it generalizes.
- Use observable behavior, not labels.
- Set mastery criteria that show the skill is reliable.
- Choose goals that are meaningful to the client and family.
What are the parts of a measurable goal?
| Part | Example |
|---|---|
| Condition | When shown a picture schedule at home |
| Learner | the client |
| Behavior | will complete a 4-step morning routine |
| Criterion | with no more than one gesture prompt, on 4 of 5 days |
| Duration | for 2 consecutive weeks |
| Generalization | with 2 different caregivers |
What do good goals look like?
- Communication: "Given two picture choices at snack, the client will select a preferred item by touching the picture within 5 seconds in 80% of opportunities across 3 sessions, with 2 staff."
- Transitions: "When shown a first-then board, the client will move to the next activity within 1 minute in 4 of 5 transitions across 2 weeks."
- Daily living: "Using a picture task analysis, the client will wash hands independently for all 6 steps on 3 consecutive days at home and clinic."
How do I make goals meaningful?
ABA should target behavior that's socially significant for the person.1 Ask:
- Will this make the client's day easier or more independent?
- Does the family want this?
- Is the client assenting to learning it?
- Will it work outside therapy?
Try
- Goals built on real routines like mornings and meals
- Communication and independence goals
- Generalization written into the goal
Skip
- Goals that only make a child look less autistic
- Stopping harmless stimming
- Forced eye contact
What can I do this week?
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