Aoife Rafter
Founder & Consultant BCBA, IBA
My name is Aoife (pronounced "ee-fa") Rafter, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) from Ireland with almost 10 years of experience using Applied Behaviour Analytic (ABA) strategies to teach language and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning. My passion lies in working closely with families to develop learning programs that not only increase a child's use of language in a functional way, but are considerate of family values, expectations and lifestyle. Since relocating to Dubai in 2022, I have continued to refine my approach, now specializing in language development and empowering parents and staff through customized training. Using Skinner’s Analysis of Verbal Behavior, I favor the approach that language is most effectively taught when it is broken down into a series of behaviors or ‘building blocks.’ By ensuring a child has a robust foundation and identifying any gaps in this foundation, it is possible to teach and empower children to communicate more effectively and utilize language (in whatever form that takes), across all aspects of their lives.​​
Our
Approach
At Solas (pronounced "sul-us")—the Irish word for "light"— We strive to bring clarity and guidance to families navigating the, at times, overwhelming task of seeking support with their child's language development. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to communicate effectively within their community, and are committed to providing practical, effective solutions that meet each family’s unique needs and expectations. ​ Using evidence based ABA strategies, we develop functional language programs —whether it’s increasing vocalizations and speech sounds, communicating wants and needs, or engaging in social conversations—and filling in gaps in the communicative repertoire, to create robust foundations of language. Our mission is to empower families with highly individualized, naturalistic programs and strategies that make addressing language concerns approachable, accessible and collaborative while celebrating and considering individual differences every step of the way.
Who can benefit?
Anyone can require support within specific areas or with overall language development, however, below are some of our regular client base.
Children with Autism,
ADHD and other
developmental delays
​Babies and toddlers
with delayed speech
and sound production
Children with
language delays
and articulation difficulties