When parents begin one on one ABA therapy for their child, they often wonder what a session looks like, how their child will respond, and what kind of progress to expect. Unlike group-based programs, one-on-one therapy provides undivided attention, allowing children to build skills at their own pace in a comfortable environment.
In home ABA therapy is designed to help children with autism develop communication, social, and daily living skills in a structured yet flexible way. Sessions take place where children feel most at ease, in their own homes, making it easier to practice and retain new skills. If you’re considering this type of therapy, here’s what you can expect.
The Structure of a One-on-One ABA Therapy Session
While each child’s therapy plan is unique, most sessions follow a structured format that includes:
Getting Started: Building Comfort and Routine
At the beginning of a session, the therapist takes time to connect with the child, making sure they feel comfortable. This might involve greeting them in a familiar way, engaging in a preferred activity, or using a visual schedule to prepare them for the day’s session.
If a child enjoys a certain toy or game, the therapist might use that as a warm-up to ease into structured learning. By starting with something enjoyable, the therapist builds a sense of trust and engagement.
- Skill Development: Personalized Learning in Action
- Communication: Practicing words, gestures, or alternative communication methods.
- Following Directions: Learning to respond to simple and multi-step instructions.
- Social Interaction: Engaging in greetings, turn-taking, and shared play.
- Daily Living Skills: Practicing dressing, brushing teeth, or organizing toys.
- Emotional Regulation: Learning coping strategies for frustration or transitions.
The main portion of the session focuses on practicing specific skills. Because one-on-one therapy is highly individualized, the therapist tailors activities to the child’s current abilities and learning style. Skills taught may include:
For example, if a child is working on improving communication, the therapist may use a mix of picture-based prompts, verbal modeling, and reinforcement techniques to encourage them to express their wants and needs.
- Reinforcement: Encouraging Positive Progress
A key part of in-home ABA therapy is reinforcement which is rewarding the child when they make progress. Reinforcement is not always about giving physical rewards; it can also be praise, high-fives, access to a favorite toy, or a fun break activity.
For instance, if a child successfully responds to a request, they might get extra playtime with a preferred toy. This positive approach helps build confidence and motivation to continue learning.
- Play-Based Learning: Making Therapy Engaging
Since therapy happens at home, many sessions incorporate play-based learning to keep children engaged. A therapist might use puzzles, interactive books, or pretend play to teach problem-solving and turn-taking.
If a child enjoys playing with toy cars, the therapist could use them to practice skills like labeling colors, counting, or initiating shared play. By weaving learning into activities the child already enjoys, therapy feels less like “work” and more like a natural part of their day.
- Parent Coaching and Wrap-Up: Extending Learning Beyond Sessions
Before ending a session, the therapist provides parents with guidance on how to continue reinforcing skills throughout the day. This may include:
- Strategies for encouraging communication during meals or playtime.
- Tips for handling transitions (e.g., using timers or visual cues).
- Techniques for reinforcing positive behaviors at home.
For example, if a child is learning to request items instead of grabbing them, the therapist might suggest using a simple phrase like “I want…” throughout daily activities. Parents are encouraged to practice these skills between sessions to reinforce progress.
What Progress Looks Like Over Time
While progress varies for each child, many families notice improvements in:
- Increased communication (more words, gestures, or clearer requests).
- Greater independence in daily activities.
- Reduced frustration and improved coping strategies.
- More engagement in social interactions and play.
Because therapy is a gradual process, small victories, like a child using a new word or successfully following a routine, are important milestones. Over time, these small steps add up to meaningful progress.
Conclusion
One-on-one ABA therapy helps autistic children build essential skills in a familiar setting, boosting confidence in communication, social interactions, and daily routines. In-home therapy also supports parents, providing strategies to reinforce progress beyond sessions. With a collaborative approach, therapy becomes part of everyday life, fostering long-term growth and independence.
