Parent Training | American Institute of Mental Health

Essential Component

What Is Parent Training?

Parent training is a critical component of ABA therapy that equips caregivers with the tools to reinforce progress at home and in the community.

Parent training — also known as caregiver training — is a structured, BCBA-led program that teaches parents and caregivers how to use ABA strategies in their daily interactions with their child. It's not about telling you what to do — it's about partnering with you and building your confidence.

Research consistently shows that children make the greatest progress when parents are actively involved in the therapy process. Skills learned in therapy sessions are only meaningful if they transfer to real life — and that's where parent training makes all the difference.

Our parent training sessions are available in-person and via telehealth, making it easy to fit into your family's schedule. Sessions are typically 1–2 hours and are covered by most insurance plans as part of ABA therapy services.

The Impact

Why Parent Training Matters

You are your child's first and most important teacher. Parent training amplifies the impact of ABA therapy.

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Faster Progress

Children whose parents are trained in ABA strategies show significantly faster skill acquisition and more sustained behavioral improvements over time.

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Skill Generalization

Skills learned in therapy must transfer to daily life. Parent training ensures your child can use new skills at home, in the community, and with different people.

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Caregiver Confidence

Understanding the "why" behind behaviors reduces stress and gives you proven strategies to handle challenging situations with confidence and calm.

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Stronger Family Bond

When the whole family understands how to communicate and interact effectively, relationships strengthen and daily life becomes more harmonious for everyone.

Curriculum

Topics Covered

Our parent training curriculum is customized to your family's needs but typically includes these core areas.

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Behavior Management

Learn how to prevent, manage, and respond to challenging behaviors using evidence-based strategies that are effective and ethical.

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Understanding behavior functions
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Positive reinforcement strategies
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Antecedent modifications
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Extinction procedures
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Replacement behavior teaching

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Communication Strategies

Develop techniques to encourage your child's communication skills, whether they use spoken language, sign language, or AAC devices.

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Manding (requesting) strategies
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Naturalistic language opportunities
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Visual supports & schedules
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AAC device support
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Social communication practice

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Daily Routines

Structure your child's day for success with strategies that make morning routines, mealtimes, bedtime, and transitions smoother.

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Visual schedules & timers
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Transition strategies
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Self-care skill building (toileting, dressing)
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Mealtime routines
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Sleep hygiene strategies

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Crisis Prevention

Be prepared for high-intensity situations with de-escalation techniques and safety planning that protect your child and your family.

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Identifying escalation patterns
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De-escalation techniques
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Safety planning
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Environmental modifications
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When and how to seek additional support

Format

How Parent Training Works

Flexible, personalized, and designed to fit your family's schedule.

📋 Session Details

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1–2 hour sessions with your BCBA
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Typically 1–2 times per month
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Available in-person or via telehealth
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Customized to your family's priorities

🎓 Training Methods

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Live modeling and demonstration
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Hands-on practice with feedback
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Written resources and handouts
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Video review and analysis

Parent & Caregiver Training