When you’re supporting a child with unique needs, even the most well-planned day can feel unpredictable. But what if one small, thoughtful change could shift the tone of the entire day—for your child and for you? In ABA therapy, small, meaningful adjustments are often the key to creating smoother routines, more connection, and less stress.
Why Small Changes Matter
Children thrive on predictability, especially when they experience the world in a sensory-rich or overwhelming way. A change doesn’t have to be big to be effective. In fact, overly ambitious changes can be stressful and hard to sustain. Starting with just one adjustment allows your child to adapt gently and builds your confidence as a caregiver, too.
ABA strategies emphasize individual progress and sustainable growth. That means helping families find doable tweaks that truly make a difference in daily routines.
Real-Life Examples of Small Changes That Help
Here are some examples of small shifts that have helped many families find more ease in their day:
1. Adding a Visual Schedule
A simple chart with pictures of the day’s activities can reduce anxiety, improve transitions, and offer your child a sense of control.
Why it works: It turns uncertainty into clarity. Children can see what’s coming next, which reduces the likelihood of resistance or overwhelm.
2. Creating a Calm-Down Corner
Choose a cozy spot in your home with soft lighting, a sensory toy, or calming visuals. Make it a safe place your child can go before a meltdown starts.
Why it works: It empowers your child to recognize their feelings and self-regulate with support—not punishment.
3. Offering Two Choices Instead of One Command
Instead of “Put on your shoes,” try “Do you want to wear your red shoes or your blue ones?”
Why it works: It gives your child autonomy within structure and reduces the power struggles that can derail routines.
4. Prepping Transitions with a Timer
Using a visual or auditory timer before a transition (like leaving the park or turning off the iPad) gives your child time to mentally prepare.
Why it works: Transitions are hard—especially when a child is engaged in something they love. A timer makes the shift more predictable and less abrupt.
5. Celebrating the Win—Even if It’s Small
Did your child sit at the table for two more minutes than yesterday? Did they try a new word, or make eye contact during a routine? That’s a win.
Why it works: Focusing on growth—even when it’s subtle—builds momentum and creates a more positive tone for everyone involved.
How to Find Your Small Change
Think about the part of the day that tends to feel the most challenging. Is it mornings? Bedtime? Leaving the house?
Pick one of those moments and ask:
“What’s one thing I could do differently that might make this easier for both of us?”
You don’t need a full overhaul—just a starting point. And if you’re working with an ABA provider like Alora, you can talk through your day together and get suggestions grounded in proven strategies.
Support That Grows With You
At Alora, we believe that lasting progress starts with empathy and builds through consistency. Every child is different, which means every family’s “small change” will look different too. That’s why our team works alongside you to understand your routines, your values, and your goals—then support you in making adjustments that feel realistic and meaningful.