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ABA therapy–or Applied Behavior Analysis–can help people with autism build communication, social, and daily living skills. But for many parents, it can be a challenge to know how to effectively use it. The truth is, the most progress happens when the strategies in therapy are consistent in everyday life.
My World ABA is passionate about helping families thrive. In this blog, we’ll explore practical, stress-free ways to integrate ABA therapy into your child’s daily routine.
Why Daily Routines Matter
Routines give children a sense of safety and predictability. For children with autism, this consistency is especially valuable. ABA therapy excels in structured environments. But “structure” doesn’t have to mean rigid or boring.
Everyday life is full of learning experiences. Mealtime, bedtime, getting dressed, brushing teeth–each offers opportunities to reinforce skills learned in therapy.
By bringing ABA therapy into your daily rhythm, you’re helping your child generalize skills and reinforce progress. This natural, supportive approach offers the best chance of long-term success.
The Best Approach to ABA Therapy? Keep It Simple
You don’t need to replicate your child’s therapy sessions in your home. Instead, think about what your child is already doing every day. Then, consider how ABA principles—like reinforcement, prompting, and modeling—can be used in those moments.
Start small. Choose one routine, like getting ready in the morning, and identify one skill to focus on. Maybe it’s brushing teeth independently or asking for help using a complete sentence. These small steps will eventually yield big improvements!
Building ABA Therapy Into Your Everyday Routine
Here are some common daily routines and our tips for naturally incorporating ABA strategies. Use this as a framework. You can customize as needed to meet your child’s unique needs.
The Morning Routine
This can be a hectic time, but it’s also packed with opportunities for skill-building.
- Use visual schedules to help your child follow steps. For example, set clear expectations for dressing, eating breakfast, and brushing teeth. These support independence and reduce anxiety.
- Reinforce completed tasks. Praise or reward your child for completing a step or asking for help appropriately. For example, you can say, “Great job putting on your shirt all by yourself!”
- Use modeling. Demonstrate steps clearly if your child is learning a new task, like tying shoelaces. Then, let them try with support.
ABA Therapy Tips for Mealtimes
Mealtime is a great time for practicing communication and social skills. With prompting, you can encourage verbal requests. For example, ask your child what they would like to drink and wait for their response before helping.
You can also offer different choices. This supports decision-making and language use. If your child isn’t interested in trying new things, don’t force the issue. Let them learn and experiment with their eating habits in their own time.
The Power of Playtime
At My World ABA, experience has shown that playtime is critical for building your child’s confidence. This is when many social and functional skills come to life. Join in your child’s favorite activities to model appropriate interactions. If they’re playing with cars, for instance, you can narrate and suggest new options.
If your child with autism has siblings, playtime is a great time to reinforce turn-taking and sharing. These can be difficult skills for some children. However, using ABA therapy and a positive mindset can lead to progress.
Outings and Errands
Real-world environments are perfect for practicing generalization. Here are some ways to help your child respond well when your daily routine takes you out and about.
- Before the trip, preview expectations with a social story or short conversation: “We’re going to the store. We’ll stay close to the cart and use quiet voices.”
- Offer reinforcement for following rules or using appropriate behavior. “You did such a great job staying with me—we can pick a special snack!”
- Let them help with tasks like choosing items or crossing them off a list. This boosts independence and engagement.
Applying ABA Therapy at Bedtime
By the end of the day, your child will likely be worn out. Consistency is especially important at this time. Similar to the morning schedule, use a visual schedule for bedtime. Steps might include:
- Take a bath
- Put on pajamas
- Brush your teeth
- Read a story
- Turn out the lights
Reinforce calm behavior with praise or tokens. You can also use an extra story of cuddle time to reward positive behavior.
ABA Therapy Strategies for Success
ABA therapy is an ongoing learning process. To ensure your efforts succeed, follow these best practices.
Be Consistent
Use the same prompts and reinforcement techniques your child’s behavior technician uses. Consistency helps your child learn faster and feel more secure.
Involve Your My World ABA Team
Talk to your child’s BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) about which skills to focus on at home and how best to support them. They can provide strategies, materials, and training tailored to your child’s goals.
Celebrate Small Wins
Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. Did your child brush their teeth with fewer prompts today? Celebrate that. These moments build momentum.
Keep It Positive
Focus on what your child can do, and build from there. Avoid turning every moment into a lesson. Your love, encouragement, and presence are the best foundation.
Celebrate Your ABA Therapy Victories
ABA therapy is most powerful when it feels like a natural part of your child’s life. It’s not a separate thing they “do.” Integrating strategies into daily routines turns everyday moments into meaningful learning opportunities. And as a parent, you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present, patient, and open to learning alongside your child.
By weaving ABA strategies into your family’s daily life, you’re supporting your child’s growth. And that, more than anything, is what makes the biggest difference.
Connect With My World ABA
My World ABA has locations in Springfield, Joplin, and Ozark. Our incredible behavior technicians are ready to help your family succeed. Reach out today to learn more.
