The earlier you start, the better the outcomes. Our toddler program uses play-based, naturalistic teaching to build communication, social skills, and development during the most critical window. We meet toddlers where they are—on the floor, playing with toys—making learning feel fun, safe, and engaging. By embedding therapeutic goals into everyday play, we help children develop essential skills without the frustration of rigid "table time" sessions that aren't age-appropriate.
The toddler years (ages 2-3) represent a window of rapid neuroplasticity where the brain is exceptionally receptive to learning and new experiences. Early, intensive ABA therapy during this period can fundamentally alter a child's developmental trajectory. Research consistently shows that children who receive early intervention make significant gains in IQ, language, and adaptive behavior compared to those who start later.
Our play-based approach, often referred to as Natural Environment Training (NET), meets toddlers where they are—on the floor, playing with toys. We don't force children to sit at tables for long periods. Instead, we follow their lead and embed learning targets into activities they already enjoy. If your child loves cars, we use cars to teach colors, counting, "stop/go" instructions, and turn-taking. This makes therapy feel like fun, not work.
A key goal is replacing challenging behaviors (often caused by frustration due to lack of communication) with functional communication skills. By teaching a toddler to point, use a sign, or say a word to get what they want, we often see significant reductions in tantrums and meltdowns. We work closely with parents to ensure these strategies are used consistently throughout the day, maximizing learning opportunities during bath time, meals, and play. Parent involvement is the secret sauce of early intervention; when families are empowered with tools, children thrive.
Absolutely not. In fact, research shows that starting ABA therapy between ages 2-3 leads to the most significant long-term improvements. At this age, the brain is rapidly developing connections. By intervening now, we can help shape those connections to support communication and social learning, potentially preventing more significant delays later.
No. Modern, compassionate ABA for toddlers looks like play. We use Natural Environment Training (NET), which means we follow your child's lead. If they want to play with trains, we use trains to teach colors ("red train"), actions ("push train"), and requests ("more train"). It fosters joy and connection, not robotic compliance.
While every child is different, comprehensive early intervention programs typically range from 20-30 hours per week. This might sound like a lot, but because it looks like play, toddlers enjoy the engagement. We break varied sessions up with breaks, snacks, and nap times to ensure your child remains happy and regulated.
Building first words, gestures, and early communication skills through naturalistic teaching.
Eye contact, joint attention, responding to name, and early social reciprocity.
Appropriate play with toys, imaginative play, and playing alongside peers.
Managing frustration, transitioning between activities, and reducing tantrums.
Early intervention during ages 2-3 produces the strongest outcomes. We have no waitlist.
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