How do you teach children cultural awareness and diversity?

Our naturally inclusive environment places autistic children in a classroom with non-autistic peers for their ABA therapeutic services.
The need to teach children cultural awareness and diversity is getting a lot of attention these days in light of recent national events. As you search for ways to mold your child in culturally-sensitive ways, you’ll find many wonderful resources. One learning system stands out from the others: Montessori and cultural awareness have always gone hand in hand. To teach children diversity, the most important first step is to expose them to diversity, to give them a solid foundation to work from. At Mindful & Modern ABA Therapies, we do that and much more.

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Teach children diversity at a young age

Many parents believe that raising a child to be “color-blind” is a good thing, but in reality, ignoring race does not give your child a solid foundation for developing cultural awareness. It is important to talk to children about race beginning at a young age– from as early as age three. Children are naturally curious about the way that people look and the differences among people. Making sure they understand these differences helps them to make sense of the world. By opening a child’s eyes to differences, they can learn to accept and value the richness of cultural diversity in the world.

How does Montessori teach children cultural awareness?

Montessori environments are designed with diversity and connection to the wider world in mind– culture is built into the curriculum. Children learn cultural awareness through hands-on activities, visual prompts, and culture-specific music, foods, and arts. From an early age, children are exposed to concepts and materials designed to illustrate that the world is both diverse and interconnected. Children seek and find connections as they learn more about the diversity around the globe.

Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies teaches children to value diversity

In addition to promoting Montessori philosophies about cultural awareness, Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies has a diverse staff. Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies is an African-American-led organization, and our organization’s leadership has always been focused on inclusion and diversity. Exposure to people with different ethnic backgrounds is one of the keystones in developing generalized awareness of ethnic diversity. Our passionate, multicultural staff create an environment of inclusivity and acceptance that leaves a positive impression on the children we work with.

What is the level of cultural diversity among the children at MMAT?

The children who receive therapy at MMAT are a less culturally diverse group than we would like to see. However, this is balanced nicely by the rich diversity of students in the Montessori program. This is one of the reasons why we believe that it is important to maintain an inclusive environment– the cultural crossover that happens between the two groups of children is of tremendous value to the families we serve.

Welcoming image show parents that their child with autism can learn the skills they need

Your child can learn with our Montessori Methods

Ways to teach children about cultural awareness at home

There are many ways to teach children about diversity and cultural awareness at home.

  • Children’s books that celebrate diversity help introduce a sense of identity and understanding of the differences in people.
  • Introduce your child to cross-cultural experiences through films, art, foods, and events. Have fun while naturally exposing your child to ethnic diversity.
  • Teach your child common phrases in other languages is another way to help them recognize diverse cultures.
  • Above all, be a good role model by focusing on the strengths and abilities of all people who are different from your child. You will set the tone for their own exploration of diversity in the world.

Get started teaching your child about cultural awareness with MMAT

The first step towards teaching your child about cultural awareness is exposing them to environments that demonstrate diversity. Modern and Mindful ABA Therapies is just such an environment. We invite you to tour the MMAT facility to see if it is a good fit for your family. If you believe that our staff and program is right for your child, then you must schedule an assessment with us to get a clinical diagnosis for your child. During the assessment, a BCBA will spend 15-30 minutes working with and observing your child in order to determine whether they have ASD. Once your child has been diagnosed, the process of being approved by your insurance company begins, and once you are approved, you may enroll your child in therapy. Once your child is enrolled, the BCBA will create a treatment plan specific to your child, and they will be paired with an RBT for their treatment.

Frequently asked questions about ABA therapy for Autism

What exactly is ABA Therapy?2020-06-23T14:57:08+00:00

ABA therapy works on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. That means that therapy is one-on-one, with a strong, ongoing emphasis on “pairing” the child with one dedicated therapist so that they develop a secure, long term relationship. ABA therapy methods are data-driven, meaning that they are highly individualized to fit with the needs of each child on a case-by-case basis.

Who provides ABA Therapy?2020-06-23T14:36:45+00:00

Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) perform assessments and create personalized therapy plans for each child that match their ability levels. On a day-to-day basis, each child is paired with their own Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), who is with them throughout the day. All of our therapy providers have years of experience and love what they do.

What are the qualifications of ABA therapists?2020-06-23T14:38:18+00:00

A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT®) is a paraprofessional certification in behavior analysis. All RBTs have undergone 40 hours of training, taken and passed an exam, and must renew their certification annually. 

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBA®) possess an undergraduate-level certification in behavior analysis. BCaBAs are required to complete continuing education and apply for recertification every two years.

Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA®) possess a graduate-level certification in behavior analysis. BCBAs are also required to complete continuing education and apply for recertification every two years.

For how long should my child receive ABA therapy?2020-06-23T15:06:55+00:00

There is no prescribed duration of time for a child to receive ABA therapy. While our technicians love watching your kids learn and grow, they understand that the ultimate goal of therapy is to prepare children for moving on to school successfully. Most children spend 2-3 years with a therapist.

Who is Mindful and Modern ABA Therapy for?2020-07-01T13:40:59+00:00

MMAT is for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) whose families want them in an environment that cultivates social skills, language development, and increased independence. Because we are a sister institution to Maria Montessori International, we are able to provide one-on-one therapy for children right alongside their typical developing peers. This allows children to interact socially in a typical setting, make friends, and build a solid foundation for success when they transition to school. 

What is Montessori, and what does it have to do with your therapies?2020-06-23T15:09:44+00:00

Many people know Maria Montessori as a pioneer in the education field, but her revolutionary education style began after working with children who had various disabilities. The Montessori focus on personalization in education coupled with natural approaches lends itself to teaching children of all abilities. Mindful and Modern Therapies was inspired by seeing many of our students with ASD flourishing in Montessori education. By bridging the gap we saw in connecting traditional therapy to learning, we found an effective way to treat students with ASD in a natural environment.

For us, we see Montessori as bringing purpose to therapy.

What is a “natural environment”?2020-06-23T15:11:09+00:00

A natural environment includes objects such as real dishes that children learn how to use, clean, and put away. These small details prepare them for functioning in the world. A garden area allows children to learn about nature and how they fit into the picture, as well as helping a child to see beyond their immediate surroundings. A natural environment for your child helps them to learn the skills they need to become life-long learners. This follows the principles of Montessori education, and encourages your child to develop their whole self – physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

Do you provide an inclusive environment?2020-06-23T15:12:23+00:00

Yes!  We believe children of all abilities can learn together and from one another.  We create an environment where everyone can learn at their own pace, and benefit from their peers, regardless of ability.

What age children do you serve?2020-06-23T15:13:41+00:00

The Mindful and Modern therapies we use are suitable for children from as young as birth to as old as 9 years old.

How many children are there in a session?2020-06-23T15:14:41+00:00

While the number of children in ABA therapy sessions varies from day to day and session to session, each child is always paired with their therapist. The therapy facility is separate from the Maria Montessori by a door. On the Montessori side, there may be as many as 25 children at a time, but children receiving ABA therapy will be accompanied when they visit and join the Montessori students. 

What times are your therapy sessions?2020-07-01T13:45:59+00:00

We have three options for sessions for therapy work: a Full-Day and two (2) Half-Day programs.

Our Full Day program is from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, while our half-day programs are either 8:30 am – 12:30 pm or 1:30 am-5:30 pm.

Our lunch is from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm.

How many hours a week are recommended for therapy?2020-06-23T15:17:34+00:00

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to ABA therapy, as each child is different. We approach every child on a case-by-case basis and make recommendations accordingly. Some of our children attend a half-day session in combination with a half-day at school.

What services do you provide for families of children with ASD?2020-06-23T15:18:32+00:00

To ensure lasting benefits for the whole family unit, we encourage family participation in therapy. By continuing therapeutic practices in the home, children can adopt new habits and behaviors more easily. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) work with parents to guide them through how to mirror therapy methods at home. Additionally, we host interactive events that are open to both parents and children. 

How does my child get an autism diagnosis?2020-07-22T17:43:49+00:00

If you believe your child may be autistic, we can help by providing ADOS testing– the first step in obtaining an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis. In 60-120 minutes, we can observe your child in a series of social interactions to determine whether they may have ASD. This test may be covered by your insurance, please check with us beforehand.

What is the necessary process for enrollment in Mindful and Modern ABA Therapy?2020-06-23T15:20:45+00:00

The first step we suggest is a visit to our facilities to see for yourself whether it is a good fit for you and your child. After a facility tour, you can schedule an assessment and diagnosis and begin the process of getting approval from your insurer. Once your paperwork is processed, your child can begin therapy. 

How long does it take to enroll a child in Mindful and Modern ABA Therapy?2020-06-23T15:21:45+00:00

Due to the process required for insurers to approve billing and claims for diagnostic assessments and to approve MMAT services, it can take up to 90 days from the first visit to begin therapy. 

Do you accept insurance for your services?2020-06-23T15:22:40+00:00

Yes, all of our therapeutic services are covered by certain insurers, and we process all of our claims in-house. From the initial intake to patient statements and claims submissions, our knowledgeable staff takes care of all insurance matters. If your insurance company is not listed on our provider list, you may still inquire with them to see if it is possible to get into our network.

Which insurers cover Mindful and Modern ABA therapy?2020-06-23T16:17:51+00:00

Our therapy is currently covered by the following insurers:

  • Indiana Medicaid
  • Medicaid Managed Care
  • Anthem Medicaid
  • CareSource Medicaid
  • MDWise
  • Cenpatico/MHS
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Optum/UBH
  • Tricare
Anthem Logo    Aetna Logo    Optum Logo
TriCare Logo    Cigna Logo    Indiana Medicaid Logo
Is there financial assistance available for low-income children in need of ABA therapy?2020-06-23T15:25:33+00:00

If you are low-income and have a child with ASD, we encourage you to look into the various Medicaid options you may qualify for. These programs are designed to help low-income families gain access to medical care and therapy, and there is a good chance that you will qualify. 

Do you offer any speech therapy for ASD?2020-07-30T13:47:35+00:00

We do offer speech therapy for  Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Our speech therapist addresses speech, language, social, play, and cognitive skills as well as help children who have feeding and swallowing challenges.

Our speech therapy will begin with an assessment to identify the type of communication disorder and the best way to treat it.

Speech therapy might include:

  • interacting through talking and playing, and using books, pictures other objects as part of language intervention to help stimulate language development
  • modeling correct sounds and syllables for a child during age-appropriate play to teach the child how to make certain sounds
  • providing strategies and homework for the child and parent on how to do speech therapy at home
Do you offer any occupational therapy for ASD?2020-07-30T13:50:42+00:00

We do offer occupational therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Our occupational therapist work with you and your child to provide individualized treatment plans that best meet your child’s evolving needs. The treatment plan might include skills like Self-Care, Feeding, Visual Motor, Fine Motor, Social, and Interacting with Peers. The plan is designed for the child to become school ready and to succeed in life.

The main difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy is that OT focuses on improving the child’s ability to perform activities of daily living and PT focuses on improving a child’s ability to perform movement of their body.

Do you offer any physical therapy for ASD?2020-07-30T13:52:32+00:00

While we currently do not offer physical therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, we are looking into adding  it as a service in the near future, so stay tuned and do not hesitate to inquire with us about it.

2023-07-06T16:01:49+00:00