Natural Environment Teaching (NET) for toddlers with autism involves embedding learning opportunities into everyday routines and play activities. This child-led approach uses the child’s natural interests to build communication, social, and independence skills.

Examples of NET therapy for toddlers include:

• Snack Time: Encouraging the child to request specific items, make choices between different foods, or practice taking turns with a snack.
• Play with Favorite Toys: Using activities like building with blocks to practice labeling shapes and colors, or following the child’s interest in toy cars to model language like “car” or “go.”
• Bath Time: Labeling body parts, practicing water play interactions, and modeling functional language such as “splash” or “bubbles.”
• Daily Dressing Routines: Sequencing the steps to put on clothes, identifying clothing items, and prompting the child with phrases like “shoes on” to build independence.
• Cleaning Up: Teaching the child to categorize objects, follow simple directions, and complete a task in a natural context.
• Physical Activities: Using playground time or family games to practice social skills and communication in a setting where those skills will actually be used.

• Natural Environment Teaching ABA: A Complete Guide