Common ABA Therapy Techniques Explained for Parents

Starting ABA therapy can feel like learning a new language. Words such as discrete trial training, prompting, or reinforcement might sound technical at first, but they describe simple, effective ways therapists help children build important skills. This guide explains the most common ABA techniques so parents can better understand what happens during therapy and how these methods support progress.

1. Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

Discrete Trial Training is one of the most common and structured ABA methods. It breaks a skill into smaller parts that are taught one at a time. Each trial includes three steps:

• Instruction – The therapist gives a clear direction, such as “touch your head.”
• Response – The child responds.
• Consequence – The therapist provides feedback, praise, or a small reward for the correct response.

This method helps children learn through repetition and positive feedback. Over time, DTT builds confidence and strengthens focus and comprehension.

2. Task Analysis

Task analysis means dividing a complex activity into small, teachable steps. For example, brushing teeth becomes several steps:

• Pick up the toothbrush.
• Apply toothpaste.
• Brush top and bottom teeth.
• Rinse and put the toothbrush away.

Breaking tasks down makes it easier for children to succeed. Each step can be practiced until mastered before moving to the next. Parents can use this same approach for daily routines such as dressing or packing a school bag.

3. Prompting

Prompting is a way of helping a child learn a skill until they can do it independently. Prompts can be physical, verbal, visual, or gestural. Examples include:

• Physical prompts such as lightly guiding a child’s hand to point or move.
• Verbal prompts like saying, “What do you say when someone gives you a toy?”
• Visual prompts such as pictures, cue cards, or gestures.

Over time, therapists gradually reduce prompts, allowing the child to complete the task independently. This method, often called prompting reinforcement ABA, builds confidence and consistency.

4. Reinforcement

Reinforcement is at the heart of ABA therapy. It means encouraging a behavior so it is more likely to happen again. Types of reinforcement include:

• Positive reinforcement such as praise, stickers, or extra playtime.
• Natural reinforcement where the reward fits naturally with the action, like getting a snack after asking for it.

Reinforcement makes learning enjoyable and teaches children that positive actions bring positive outcomes. Over time, social praise and encouragement replace tangible rewards.

5. Shaping

Shaping rewards small steps that lead to a bigger goal. For example, if the goal is to say “water,” the therapist might first praise the child for any sound, then for saying “wa,” and eventually for saying the full word. This gradual approach encourages persistence and helps children build complex skills with confidence.

6. Chaining

Chaining teaches a sequence of steps that form a complete skill, such as washing hands or tying shoes. There are two main ways to teach using chaining:

• Forward chaining: The therapist teaches the first step, then adds the next step once the first is mastered.
• Backward chaining: The therapist teaches the last step first, allowing the child to finish the task and feel successful from the start.

Both methods help children learn routines that require multiple steps.

7. Generalization

Learning a new skill is only valuable if a child can use it in everyday life. Generalization ensures that what a child learns in therapy also works at home, in school, and in the community. For example, if a child learns to greet their therapist, the next goal may be greeting family members and classmates. Parents play a key role in reinforcing these skills outside of sessions.

8. Natural Environment Teaching (NET)

Natural Environment Teaching focuses on learning through daily activities and play. It uses the child’s natural interests to teach communication, problem-solving, and social interaction. For example, a therapist might teach turn-taking during a favorite game or language skills while playing with building blocks. Learning in natural settings helps children apply skills more easily to real-life situations.

Final Thoughts

Understanding these ABA techniques helps parents see the structure and intention behind each session. Methods like discrete trial training, prompting, and reinforcement are designed to build skills step by step while keeping therapy positive and engaging. At Starrise, families are part of every stage of this process. Our certified professionals use evidence-based ABA methods to help children grow in confidence, communication, and independence. We believe progress begins with understanding, and we are here to guide parents every step of the way.

Ready to Learn More? If you want to explore how these ABA techniques can help your child, our team is here to assist you. Schedule a Free Consultation →