Hey Reader!
If you’ve ever heard phrases like “We need an ABA plan” or “Let’s bring in OT” and wondered what those really mean for your child—you’re not alone.
Both ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and OT (Occupational Therapy) support children with developmental or behavioral challenges. But while their tools may look similar, their lenses are different.
The Lense
✩ ABA focuses on behavior—using data and reinforcement to understand what’s happening and why.
✩ OT, on the other hand, looks at participation—how a child’s sensory, motor, and emotional systems shape what they can do and how they experience it.
When they work together, the results can be powerful. Because behavior and participation are never separate—they influence each other every day.
For example, a child may refuse circle time not because they’re “noncompliant,” but because sitting on the floor feels uncomfortable or overwhelming.
When OT and ABA collaborate, the focus shifts from stopping behavior to supporting readiness—so a child can succeed on their own terms.
Here’s the heart of it:
- ABA helps structure the plan.
- OT helps the plan work for the child.
Child-Led Wins
When plans are child-led, flexible, and built around trust, progress feels lighter—for everyone.
✨ If your child’s current plan feels rigid, or if you’re unsure where OT fits alongside ABA, let’s talk. Together, we can bridge strategies into meaningful participation and sustainable progress.
💬 Book a Parent Consultation to explore integrated, child-led support.
Want more tips? Schedule a call or connect with me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Don't forget to share this article with fellow parents—it's all about empowering each other!
Warmly,
Aya Porté
Occupational Therapist & Founder, Koi Wellness
