When it comes to ABA therapy, you may hear terms like Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Teaching (NET). Both are powerful teaching methods that help children build important skills, but they work in different ways.
Understanding the difference can help you see how your child learns best and how therapists blend these approaches for success.
What Is Discrete Trial Training?
DTT is a highly structured teaching method. It breaks down skills into small, simple steps. Each trial has a clear instruction, the child’s response, and immediate feedback or reinforcement.
DTT works best when:
- Teaching new or challenging skills
- Practicing communication, academic, or daily living skills
- A child benefits from repetition and structure
Think of DTT as practicing one skill at a time, with lots of opportunities for learning and reinforcement.
What Is Natural Environment Teaching?
NET uses everyday routines and play to teach skills in real-life settings. Instead of sitting at a table, a child might learn during snack time, playtime, or while getting dressed.
NET works best when:
- A child needs to generalize skills to different situations
- Motivation is higher during play or daily activities
- Families want strategies they can use at home and in the community
NET helps children apply what they’ve learned in ways that feel natural and meaningful.
How They Work Together
The best ABA therapy programs use both DTT and NET. DTT introduces and strengthens new skills, while NET helps children use those skills in real-life situations.
Together, they create balanced learning opportunities that support long-term growth.
At Connect N Care, we use both structured teaching and natural learning opportunities to help children succeed. Our services include ABA parent training, in-home ABA therapy, school-based ABA therapy, and center-based ABA therapy.
Families across North Carolina and Virginia trust us to provide compassionate, effective ABA therapy tailored to their child. Reach out today to learn how we can support your family.
FAQs
Is DTT or NET better for my child?
Neither is “better.” Therapists often use both to create a well-rounded program that fits your child’s needs.
Can parents use DTT or NET at home?
Yes! Therapists provide training and strategies so parents can use both methods in daily routines.
Why combine DTT and NET?
DTT builds skills step by step, while NET ensures children can use those skills naturally in everyday life.
