Hand in Hand Malta is organising two training courses next month.

• A two-day course entitled An Introduction to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) will be held on May 17 and 24 from 1 to 4pm. ABA is a method of studying and managing behaviour to bring about change. When a behaviour is followed by some sort of reward, the behaviour is more likely to be repeated; positive reinforcement is one such principle.

ABA uses these techniques to bring about meaningful and positive change in behaviour. This is often used with children with autism, but it can also be used with students with learning disabilities, children with behavioural difficulties, and those with attention deficit disorders.

This course is suitable for parents, teachers, child carers, learning support assistants and caregivers.

The course fee is €70 per person.

• A one-day training course entitled Therapeutic Play Techniques will be held on May 18 from 9.30am to 4.30pm. These techniques provide a way for children to express their experiences and feelings through a natural, self-guided and self-healing process.

As children’s experiences and knowledge are often communicated through play, it is considered to be an important vehicle for those working with children to help resolve psychosocial challenges.

This course aims at enhancing the repertoire of therapeutic play techniques which can be used with children to help them overcome their life difficulties. It is suitable for counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, social workers, learning support assistance, teachers and early years educators.

The course fee is €120 per person, including a light lunch.

Both courses will be led by Jacqueline Abela DeGiovanni.

For bookings, call Hand in Hand Malta on 7947 4692 or e-mail handinhand.mlt@gmail.com.