Understanding Assessments: a Breakdown for Caregivers

Part 2 – What is the ABLLS-R? 

In the last post, we discussed the VBMAPP and how individualized goals can be created when assessing a client’s skills with the VBMAPP. In this post, we will be taking a closer look at the ABLLS-R. We will discuss what the ABLLS-R is and its components. We will also be discussing why the ABLLS-R isn’t meant for everyone and how we can use the ABLLS-R to best support its clients. 

What is the ABLLS-R?

ABLLS-R stands for Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills-Revised. It covers a variety of skills from academic to self-help. The ABLLS-R typically assesses a child’s skills from the age of 2 to 6; however, it can cover skills that have not yet been acquired even as the child ages. 

The ABLLS-R is a skills tracking system. It takes a group of skills and shows the accumulation of skills that a child can obtain over time. This is different than some other assessments that compare the skills to other peers of the same chronological age. This means that by testing these skills, we can see where each child is individually and come up with their own individualized programming to build upon their current skills. The ABLLS-R is broken down into 25 different sections. These skills sections include academic, group, personal, imitation, and so many other areas of progress to keep track of. 

Why We Use the ABLLS-R

There are a few reasons why a BCBA may choose to use the ABLLS-R over other assessments.  

• It tests a wide range of skills. The VBMAPP focuses on 16 domains of manding, tacting, social skills, and more. On the other hand, the ABLLS-R focuses on 25 domains and attempts to focus on various areas where one might see deficits or slow skill acquisition. Some of the domains included on the ABLLS-R that are not included in the VBMAPP are math, reading, dressing, grooming, and other adaptive skills. Additionally, some domains are broken down into even more specific areas such as group instruction and classroom routines. 

• It provides comprehensive steps. Each goal is written in a way to move through each skill in a manageable and easily measurable way. For example, a listener responding skill might be phrased: follows 2 instructions, then 4, then 8, and so on. 

• ABLLS-R is more widely accepted. One reason the ABLLS-R could be used to pull goals from is that it’s one of the most widely used and accepted assessments by clinics and insurance. This will make for a smoother authorization when trying to access services. 

What It Means for Your Child

After your BCBA completes the ABLLS-R, you’ll receive a detailed breakdown of where your child is progressing through each of these skills. Additionally, it will show a blank spot in the graph to indicate a new skill to be learned. The ABLLS-R’s hierarchy can provide a clear progression of skills in order to make steps to an overarching goal. 

What Are the Limitations?

The ABLLS, while providing a comprehensive breakdown of skills needed, has some limitations that should be considered before determining if this assessment is the best fit. 

• Assessing with the ABLLS-R is a lengthy process. Many BCBAs report that the ABLLS-R can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple dozen hours. Depending on the skill set of the client being assessed, this process can take longer to complete to ensure each skill is being tested and accounted for. 

• ABLLS does not incorporate barriers experienced by maladaptive behaviors. The ABLLS breaks down each domain into smaller, attainable skills, but does not include deficits experienced because of maladaptive behaviors. The VBMAPP includes a Barriers section to address any maladaptive behaviors that may be exhibited.

Our Approach

At One of the Kids, we use a variety of assessments including the ABLLS-R to ensure each client is getting an individualized treatment plan that best fits the client. We understand that one assessment may not display all the small wins so using several assessments, we can get a more comprehensive look at where your child is at and how we can best support you and your child.