• April 25, 2025
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When I first meet with parents starting ABA therapy for their child, one of the first things I like to clear up is this: ABA isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.

I get it — when you’re first hearing about therapy options, the language can sound overwhelming. You might wonder, “Are there different styles? Will my child be stuck in a rigid program?”

The good news is, ABA therapy comes in different forms to meet your child’s unique needs. Two main styles we often use are Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET) — and today, I’m going to walk you through both.

Understanding ABA Therapy: A Quick Overview

Before we dive into the two types, it helps to remember what ABA therapy is really about: helping children learn important skills by breaking them down into manageable steps, using positive reinforcement, and building on successes over time.

How we deliver those lessons — structured vs. more natural — depends on what’s best for your child.

The Two Main Types of ABA Therapy

1. Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

What is DTT?

Discrete Trial Training is a highly structured teaching method where skills are broken down into small, clear steps. Each teaching moment, called a “trial,” has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

What DTT Looks Like:

• Setting: Typically happens at a table or structured work area.
• Instruction: The therapist gives a clear instruction like “touch the apple.”
• Response: Your child responds (correctly or incorrectly).
• Feedback: Immediate reinforcement (praise, small rewards) for correct answers, or gentle correction and another try if needed.
• Repetition: Skills are practiced over and over to build strong foundations.

When We Use DTT

DTT is especially helpful for:

• Teaching new concepts like colors, numbers, letters
• Building early communication skills
• Practicing following directions
• Developing early play and social routines

In my sessions, I often use DTT with children who benefit from extra structure to really master a new skill before moving on.

2. Natural Environment Teaching (NET)

What is NET?

Natural Environment Teaching is a more flexible, play-based approach where learning happens during everyday activities — often without your child even realizing they’re “working.”

What NET Looks Like:

• Setting: Happens during playtime, snack time, at the park — anywhere your child naturally spends time.
• Instruction: Teaching moments are embedded in fun, natural activities (e.g., asking for “more bubbles” while playing).
• Response: Your child’s motivation drives the learning — they learn because they want to interact or access something fun.
• Feedback: Reinforcement is immediate and meaningful (more play, excitement, praise).
• Spontaneity: Skills are practiced in real-world situations, promoting generalization.

When We Use NET

NET is especially effective for:

• Building spontaneous communication
• Encouraging social interaction
• Teaching flexibility and problem-solving
• Generalizing skills learned during DTT into real life

Many times during a session at Kids N Heart, you’ll see us following a child’s lead — turning their favorite toy or game into a rich learning opportunity.

Choosing the Right Approach for Your Child

In most cases, we actually blend both DTT and NET to create a balanced therapy program.

A typical day might include:

• A little structured table time (DTT) to focus on a specific skill
• Lots of playful interaction (NET) to apply that skill in natural settings

This balance keeps learning fun, meaningful, and tailored to your child’s growth and motivation.

At Kids N Heart, we work closely with you to design a program that honors your child’s strengths, interests, and goals — because real progress happens when therapy feels rewarding, not rigid.

Starting ABA therapy is a big step — and you deserve a partner who really listens, personalizes the approach, and celebrates your child’s every success.

At Kids N Heart, we’re passionate about meeting each child where they are, using the right blend of structured learning and natural play to help them shine.

If you’re ready to learn more about how we can support your child’s journey, reach out today. We’re excited to meet you!

FAQs 

Is one type of ABA better than the other?

Not necessarily. Both DTT and NET have their strengths. The best programs usually combine elements of both, depending on what helps your child learn best.

Will my child be sitting at a table all day?

Definitely not. While DTT may involve some table work, much of ABA therapy today happens through play, movement, and daily activities — especially with NET.

How do I know which type of teaching my child needs?

Your child’s therapy team will assess their learning style, preferences, and goals to find the right balance of DTT and NET — and adjust it as they grow.

Sources:

• https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/what-discrete-trial-training
• https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/discrete-trial-teaching-what-is-it.html
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3592489/
• https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-discrete-trial-training/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10907925/