In ABA therapy, communication progress is tracked through a meticulous, data-driven process led by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). The primary methods include:

1. Data Collection Tools: Therapists use structured tools like ABC data, which records the antecedents, behaviors, and consequences of a child’s interactions. This provides an accurate measurement of language advancements and social communication growth.
2. Specific Skill Monitoring: Performance is logged for specific interventions. For functional communication training, therapists record how often a child uses words or signs to request items. For those using the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), the number of picture card exchanges is graphed to visualize improvements.
3. Baseline and Weekly Updates: Assessment begins by establishing a baseline communication analysis. From there, families receive weekly progress updates featuring simple graphs that illustrate trends in skills such as manding (requesting) or labeling.
4. Parent Involvement: Progress tracking is a collaborative effort. Parents are encouraged to share observations from the home environment to help refine therapy plans and ensure the child is generalizing skills outside of clinical sessions.