Simple Activities to Support ABA Therapy at Home

Supporting ABA therapy does not have to feel overwhelming. Small, meaningful activities can make the biggest difference. When you bring learning into everyday routines, your child gets more chances to practice skills. These moments build confidence, independence, and connection.

If you want ideas you can start using today, this guide will help you. These activities fit naturally into home life and support the goals your child works on during ABA sessions.

Why At-Home Activities Support ABA Therapy

Children learn best when skills are practiced in different places with different people. At home, your child feels safe. This makes it easier to try new things.

Short, fun activities strengthen what your child is already learning in therapy. They also help your family stay involved, which improves progress over time.

Daily Routine Activities to Support ABA Therapy at Home

Daily routines offer built-in learning opportunities. You do not need special materials. Everyday tasks can help your child practice communication, independence, and social skills.

Morning Routine Practice

Mornings are full of steps, which make them perfect for skill-building.

You can try:

• Asking your child to choose between two outfits
• Encouraging them to brush teeth with simple step-by-step prompts
• Using a visual schedule to help them follow each part of the routine

These activities support sequencing, independence, and decision-making.

Mealtime Learning Moments

Mealtime offers natural chances for communication and social skills.

Try activities like:

• Having your child request foods using words, signs, or gestures
• Asking simple this or that questions
• Encouraging your child to help set the table

These small interactions strengthen expressive language and flexibility.

Play-Based Activities to Support ABA Therapy

Play is one of the most effective learning tools. Many ABA programs use play because it motivates children and allows them to explore.

Turn-Taking Games

Games like rolling a ball back and forth or taking turns with a favorite toy teach patience and shared attention.

Say things like “My turn” and “Your turn” to help your child understand the pattern.

Pretend Play for Social Skills

Pretend play helps develop creativity and social understanding.

You might:

• Pretend to run a store
• Play doctor
• Use dolls or figures to act out everyday situations

This strengthens communication and problem-solving skills in a fun, relaxed way.

Sensory Play Activities

Sensory activities help children explore textures, sounds, and movement.

Popular options include:

• Water play
• Sand bins
• Play-doh
• Bubble play

These activities support regulation and attention. They are also easy to adapt based on your child’s needs and preferences.

Communication Activities to Support ABA Therapy at Home

Communication skills grow when children have many chances to practice in real life.

Choice-Making Activities

Offer choices often. For example:

• “Do you want an apple or a banana?”
• “Should we read this book or that one?”

Choices encourage communication and give your child a sense of control.

Labeling and Describing Activities

During play, meals, or walks, label items your child sees. Say things like:

• “That is a big dog.”
• “You found a red ball.”

This builds vocabulary simply and naturally.

Family Activities to Support ABA Therapy at Home

Families play an important role in ABA progress. Shared activities help everyone stay connected.

Family Walks

Walks create opportunities to talk about the environment, practice safety rules, and take turns leading.

Story Time

Reading books together supports listening, attention, and language. Ask questions such as:

• “What do you think happens next?”
• “Where is the cat?”

Short books or picture books work well for young learners.

How to Stay Consistent with At-Home ABA Support

Consistency matters, but perfection is not the goal. Aim for short activities that feel natural to your family. A few minutes each day can create meaningful growth.

Try to:

• Keep activities simple
• Practice skills in different rooms
• Celebrate small steps
• Ask your child’s therapy team for personalized ideas

Your ABA team can suggest activities that match your child’s goals and strengths.

Start ABA Therapy Services with Circle City ABA

If you want support, guidance, and personalized ABA therapy for your child, Circle City ABA is here to help. Our team creates individualized programs that fit your child’s needs and your family’s routines.

To get started, contact our admissions team for more information on our services and how we can support you and your child. Find a location near you! We serve Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska. Our team will walk you through the intake process and answer any questions you have.

Your child’s progress begins with the right support. We are ready to partner with you every step of the way.