Therapy Decision Guide
Video modeling implemented by BACB-certified behaviour analysts, SLPs, or other regulated professionals is eligible under OAP core clinical services. The technique itself is low-cost once videos are created, making it an efficient use of OAP funding.
Ask any prospective provider which of these credentials they hold, and confirm the credential with the relevant regulatory college before starting.
Several video modeling variations exist, each suited to different learners and targets. Basic video modeling uses an adult or peer as the model. Video self-modeling (VSM) films the learner performing the target behaviour successfully (sometimes through editing to show a "best performance" compilation), which has been shown to increase self-efficacy and motivation. Point-of-view video modeling films from the learner's visual perspective, which can be particularly effective for task sequences like handwashing or cooking.
Video prompting breaks skills into discrete steps and pauses between steps for the learner to perform each action before watching the next step. This is especially useful for complex multi-step tasks. Interactive video modeling incorporates digital prompts, choice-making, and feedback within the video. Modern implementations often use tablets or phones, making video modeling highly portable and accessible.
Video modeling has one of the largest evidence bases among autism interventions. Bellini and Akullian (2007) conducted a meta-analysis of 23 single-subject design studies published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, finding that video modeling and video self-modeling were effective intervention strategies for addressing social-communication, behavioural, and functional skills across all age groups and diagnostic categories.
The 2020 NCAEP review identified video modeling as an evidence-based practice meeting rigorous inclusion criteria. The intervention has demonstrated effectiveness for teaching social skills, daily living skills, academic skills, communication, play, and vocational skills. Its visual nature aligns well with the visual learning strengths that many autistic individuals possess, contributing to its broad effectiveness.
Video modeling is one of the most accessible evidence-based practices for Ontario families. With a smartphone or tablet, parents can create customized video models tailored to their child's specific environment and targets. Commercial video modeling libraries (such as Model Me Kids and Watch Me Learn) are available for common social and daily living skills.
Many Ontario behaviour analysts incorporate video modeling into home and school ABA programs. School boards can implement video modeling with minimal cost, and the technique transitions well between home and school settings. For families on OAP waitlists, video modeling is one intervention that can be started with relatively low cost and minimal professional supervision after initial training.
Bellini & Akullian (2007)
A meta-analysis of video modeling and video self-modeling interventions for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Exceptional Children, 73(3), 264-287.
NCAEP (2020)
National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice Review Team. Evidence-based practices for children, youth, and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate
Evidence on this page
Key claims are paired with their source, evidence tier, and verification date so readers can inspect the public record directly.
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) delivered to children aged 18–30 months produced significant gains in IQ, adaptive behaviour, and autism severity — some children no longer met diagnostic criteria at follow-up
Cochrane systematic review finds evidence that early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) may produce positive effects on adaptive behaviour and communication for young children with ASD (low certainty of evidence)
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement
89,799
children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program
23%
Only 20,633 children have active funding agreements — less than one in four