How Parents Can Support ABA Therapy at Home

ABA therapy doesn’t stop when the session ends — and neither does your child’s progress. One of the most powerful tools in any child’s growth is you. At Sunny Skies ABA, we work closely with parents to carry the momentum from therapy into everyday life. Here’s how you can be an active part of your child’s success at home.

Why Parent Involvement Matters

Children spend most of their time at home — not in a clinic. That’s why the best results come when parents know how to:

• Reinforce the skills being taught in therapy

• Create consistency between home and sessions

• Encourage communication and independence in daily routines

• Handle behaviors calmly and confidently

When everyone is on the same page, progress happens faster and lasts longer.

1. Use the Same Language and Cues

If your child is learning to request things by saying “help” or pointing to a picture, use the same method at home. This helps your child connect the dots between therapy and real life.

Example:
If the therapist says, “First clean up, then snack,” try using that same phrase during playtime or mealtime.

2. Reinforce Positive Behavior

When your child uses a skill they've learned — like asking politely or waiting their turn — praise it! Positive reinforcement helps the behavior stick.

Tips:

• Be specific (“Great job using your words!”)

• Use things your child loves — like a high-five, hug, or small treat

• Celebrate even small steps forward

3. Practice in Real-Life Settings

ABA skills aren’t just for therapy sessions — they’re for everyday life.

Try:

• Asking your child to follow a simple direction during dinner

• Practicing greetings when meeting family or friends

• Playing turn-taking games at the park

The more natural practice your child gets, the more confident they’ll become.

4. Track Progress and Challenges

Keep a simple journal or notes on:

• What your child is doing well

• New behaviors you’re seeing

• Areas where your child is struggling

Share this with your therapy team so we can adjust the plan as needed.

5. Ask Questions — Often

You don’t have to know everything. At Sunny Skies ABA, we welcome your questions and concerns. We’ll explain techniques, demonstrate strategies, and give you simple tools to use at home.

The more involved you are, the more empowered you’ll feel — and the more supported your child will be.

Final Thoughts: You Are the Constant

Therapists may change. Routines may shift. But your child has one steady source of love and support — you. By working hand-in-hand with your ABA team, you become one of the strongest forces in your child’s growth and happiness.