When a child is attending ABA sessions, especially in a home setting, parents often face the challenge of keeping their toddler sibling occupied without disrupting the therapy. Maintaining a calm and focused environment is crucial for the effectiveness of in-home ABA therapy, but toddlers, with their natural curiosity and energy, require thoughtful engagement to avoid distractions. This article provides practical strategies to keep toddlers busy and happy while their sibling benefits from essential ABA sessions.
Understanding the Challenge
ABA sessions demand a quiet and structured atmosphere for optimal results. Toddlers, however, thrive on activity and interaction, making it hard for parents to manage both children simultaneously. The goal is to find activities that can engage the toddler independently or with minimal supervision, ensuring the sibling in therapy receives uninterrupted attention.
1. Create a Dedicated Toddler Play Zone
Setting up a specific area away from the therapy space can help the toddler feel included yet separate. Fill this zone with age-appropriate toys, books, and quiet activities such as:
- Stacking blocks or puzzles
- Coloring books and crayons
- Interactive storybooks or audiobooks
Having a designated corner signals to the toddler that this is their special space, encouraging independent play while keeping noise and movement minimal.
2. Use Engaging Educational Toys
Select toys that captivate the toddler’s interest and promote learning. Items like shape sorters, simple musical instruments, (filled with safe materials like rice or beans) can keep toddlers busy for extended periods. Rotating toys regularly keeps their attention fresh.
3. Introduce Screen Time Strategically
While screen time should be limited, during ABA sessions it can be a useful tool for short bursts of toddler engagement. Opt for educational shows or apps designed for toddlers that promote language, numbers, or colors. Use headphones to avoid noise interference, ensuring the therapy environment stays calm.
4. Plan Independent Activities
Toddlers can be encouraged to perform simple independent activities such as:
- Sticker books
- Sorting colored beads into containers
- Simple crafts (with supervision) like tearing paper or placing shapes on a board
These activities are manageable for toddlers and provide a sense of accomplishment, reducing restlessness.
5. Schedule Toddler Activity Times Around ABA Sessions
If possible, align the toddler’s most active times with moments outside of therapy sessions. Before ABA sessions start, engage the toddler in physical play, then transition to calmer activities during therapy. This helps burn off energy and prepares them for quieter play.
6. Incorporate Quiet Books and Puzzles
Quiet books with flaps, buttons, and textures are excellent for keeping toddlers occupied silently. Puzzles with large pieces are also good for focus and fine motor skills. Both are perfect for in-home ABA environments where noise control is important.
7. Use Positive Reinforcement
Praise the toddler when they play quietly or follow simple rules during ABA sessions. This can motivate them to repeat good behavior and understand the importance of supporting their sibling’s therapy.
8. Enlist Help When Possible
If another adult or caregiver is available, have them engage the toddler in a separate room or outside while the ABA session is underway. This allows the parent to focus fully on the child receiving therapy and ensures the toddler is supervised and entertained.
9. Prepare a Toddler “Emergency” Kit
Have a bag with favorite toys, snacks, and small treats ready for moments when the toddler needs quick engagement. Rotating these items keeps the toddler curious and less likely to seek attention during ABA sessions.
10. Maintain Flexibility and Patience
Every child is unique, and some days will be more challenging than others. Being patient and adapting strategies as needed helps create a more harmonious home environment during ABA therapy.
Conclusion
Keeping a toddler occupied during their sibling’s ABA sessions requires creativity, planning, and patience. By setting up dedicated play zones, utilizing engaging toys, scheduling activities thoughtfully, and offering positive reinforcement, parents can foster a peaceful space conducive to effective ABA sessions. This balance supports the progress of the child receiving therapy while ensuring the toddler feels engaged and valued.
At Alight Behavioral Therapy, we provide personalized, in-home ABA therapy and autism evaluations, all designed to help children on the autism spectrum reach their full potential.