Yekaterina Smolyakova Participated in the International Symposium of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Specialists

On July 10, 2025, Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University hosted the continuation of the International Symposium of specialists in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

The main goal of the symposium was to discuss the prospects for the development of applied behavior analysis in the Republic of Kazakhstan, the work of ABA specialists, and their collaboration with educational institutions and society to promote inclusion.

The event was attended by Yekaterina Smolyakova, a deputy of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, along with experienced behavior analysts from the USA, Canada, Russia, and Kazakhstan, parents of children with special educational needs, as well as representatives of governmental bodies and subject matter experts.

The third day of the symposium was dedicated to the topic "International Standards of ABA Education: Lessons for Kazakhstan." Olga Shapovalova, a certified BCBA behavior analyst from the USA and founder and head of the Parent Education Academy, delivered an insightful presentation titled "When Understanding Matters More Than a Checkmark: Cooper Again, But in Plain Language."

After the lunch break, Olga Shapovalova conducted a hands-on seminar titled "ABA in Working with Teenagers: How ABA Helps Cope with Anxiety During Puberty."

Thus, participants of the symposium gained a deeper understanding of modern ABA methods, enhanced their practical skills, and contributed to the development of applied behavior analysis in Kazakhstan.