5 Ways to Support Your Child's ABA Progress at Home

The Power of Consistency

ABA therapy sessions are incredibly valuable, but the real magic happens when the strategies used in therapy are consistently applied at home. When parents actively participate in their child's treatment, skills are reinforced throughout the day, leading to faster progress and better generalization of skills.

Here are five practical ways you can support your child's ABA progress at home.

1. Create a Structured Environment

Children with autism often thrive with structure and predictability. Creating a consistent environment at home can reduce anxiety and help your child feel more secure.

How to implement this:

• Visual schedules: Use pictures or words to show the daily routine
• Designated spaces: Create specific areas for different activities (play, homework, quiet time)
• Consistent timing: Try to keep mealtimes, bedtime, and other routines at the same time each day
• Prepare for transitions: Give warnings before changing activities ("In 5 minutes, we'll clean up toys")

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of ABA therapy. When your child exhibits a desired behavior, immediately rewarding that behavior increases the likelihood they'll do it again.

How to implement this:

• Be immediate: Deliver praise or rewards right after the desired behavior
• Be specific: Instead of "Good job," say "Great job putting your shoes on!"
• Know your child's preferences: Use rewards that are meaningful to your child
• Mix it up: Vary reinforcers to keep your child motivated
• Fade gradually: Over time, transition from frequent rewards to occasional praise

3. Practice Communication Skills

Communication is often a primary focus of ABA therapy. You can reinforce these skills throughout the day during natural interactions.

How to implement this:

• Create opportunities: Place desired items in sight but out of reach to encourage requesting
• Wait expectantly: Give your child time to initiate communication before jumping in
• Model language: Narrate what you're doing and expand on your child's words
• Use the same system: If your child uses signs or a communication device, use it consistently
• Celebrate attempts: Praise any communication effort, even if it's not perfect

4. Build Social Opportunities

Social skills development is an important part of ABA therapy. Creating opportunities for social interaction at home helps your child practice these skills in a comfortable environment.

How to implement this:

• Family game nights: Practice turn-taking, following rules, and being a good sport
• Playdates: Start with one friend for a short, structured activity
• Sibling interactions: Facilitate positive play between siblings
• Role-play: Practice social scenarios like ordering at a restaurant or greeting someone
• Video modeling: Watch and discuss videos showing appropriate social interactions

5. Take Care of Yourself

This might seem like unusual advice for supporting your child, but parent well-being directly impacts your ability to be an effective partner in your child's therapy.

How to implement this:

• Accept help: Let family and friends support you when they offer
• Find your community: Connect with other parents who understand your journey
• Schedule breaks: Even short moments of self-care can recharge your energy
• Celebrate wins: Acknowledge your child's progress and your own efforts
• Communicate with your team: Share concerns and challenges with your BCBA—they're there to help

Working Together for Success

The partnership between families and ABA therapists is essential for achieving the best outcomes. Don't hesitate to ask your BCBA questions, share what's working or not working at home, and request additional parent training if needed.

Together, we can create a consistent, supportive environment that helps your child thrive—both during therapy sessions and throughout their daily life.