Natural Environment Teaching Examples Parents Can Try at Home
If your child is in ABA therapy, you’ve probably heard the term Natural Environment Teaching (NET). It simply means using everyday routines and play to teach skills — right where your child learns best. Instead of sitting at a table, your child learns through real moments like snack time, playtime, or getting dressed.
Here are some easy NET examples parents can try at home to help their child learn naturally while having fun.
During Mealtime
Mealtime is full of natural teaching moments — it’s perfect for building communication and independence.
- Encourage your child to request items (“I want juice,” “More apple”).
- Practice following directions (“Put your plate on the table”).
- Use conversation starters (“What do you want to eat?” “Is it yummy?”).
- Let them help set the table — great for sequencing and cooperation.
While Playing
Play is the heart of Natural Environment Teaching — it’s where kids are most motivated.
- Teach turn-taking with favorite toys (“My turn, your turn”).
- Label colors, shapes, or actions (“The car is fast!” “That block is red”).
- Encourage problem-solving (“How can we make this tower taller?”).
- Use pretend play to build imagination and social language.
Getting Dressed
Even simple routines can teach new skills and independence.
- Work on sequencing (“First shirt, then pants”).
- Teach body parts while dressing (“Arm in sleeve!”).
- Offer choices to practice communication (“Do you want blue or red socks?”).
- Praise independence (“You put your shoes on all by yourself!”).
During Errands
A grocery trip or walk outside can be full of NET opportunities.
- Have your child help with a shopping list or find items on shelves.
- Practice greetings and social interactions (“Hi,” “Thank you,” “Bye”).
- Count items or identify colors, textures, and sizes.
- Use waiting in line to teach patience and conversation.
Outdoor Time
The outdoors offers natural opportunities for sensory play and language learning.
- Point out and label what you see (“Tree,” “Bird,” “Car”).
- Take turns using playground equipment.
- Practice safety skills like “Stop,” “Wait,” and “Hold my hand.”
- Use nature to build curiosity and expand vocabulary.
Simple Tips for Parents Using NET
You don’t need to plan long lessons — just make learning part of your day.
- Follow your child’s interests. Use what they love — it keeps them motivated.
- Keep it playful. Short, natural teaching moments work best.
- Use positive reinforcement. Celebrate every success, no matter how small.
- Stay in touch with your ABA therapist. Ask for new ideas that fit your child’s goals.
These moments might seem small, but they build big, lasting skills over time.
At Inclusive ABA, therapists teach families how to use Natural Environment Teaching at home. Our approach focuses on helping children learn in real-world settings where skills truly stick — mealtime, playtime, and everywhere in between.
We offer caring, personalized ABA therapy in:
Our services include:
- Home-based ABA — learn in the comfort of home
- School-based ABA — support success in the classroom
- Parent training — empower parents to use ABA tools like NET every day
Every everyday moment counts — and Inclusive ABA is here to help you make the most of them. Learn more about Inclusive ABA and how NET can help your child thrive.
FAQs
1. What is Natural Environment Teaching in ABA?
It’s a method that teaches skills during real-life routines — like eating, playing, or getting dressed — instead of structured lessons.
2. Can I do NET at home without a therapist?
Yes! Parents can easily use NET by turning daily activities into fun learning opportunities that match ABA goals.
3. Why is NET important for autistic children?
It helps kids apply new skills naturally, builds independence, and strengthens learning in familiar, meaningful settings.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38917993/
https://www.nu.edu/blog/what-is-natural-environment-teaching/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287645905_Utilizing_Teaching_Interactions_to_Facilitate_Social_Skills_in_the_Natural_Environment
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2774588/
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/etd/755/
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