How We Juggle ABA and a Toddler
When Henry’s RBT knocks on the door each morning, my toddler Penelope runs to greet her like it’s her preschool teacher arriving.
“Good morning, teacher!” she chirps banana in one hand, sticker book in the other.
Because in her mind? ABA sessions are just… homeschool with her big brother.
It’s adorable until she grabs the token board and yells, “MY TURN!”
Here’s the truth: juggling full-day therapy and a toddler under one roof is beautiful chaos.
It’s moments of structured learning interrupted by snack demands…
It’s sticker charts mixed with magnetic blocks…
It’s a soundtrack of “First, Then” visuals and Daniel Tiger.
But we’ve learned how to make it work for all of us.
🧩 What helps Penelope stay busy (so therapy can stay on track):
• Her Busy Book with matching games, alphabet, and numbers
• Magnetic building blocks she stacks while “working next to brother”
• A daily craft bin (markers, stickers, glue chaos but creative)
You can find the links to our favorite items in my bio.
💛 And what helps me stay sane?
Letting go of perfection. Sticking to rhythms over rigid routines. And giving myself permission to laugh through the madness.
If you’re an overwhelmed mom trying to hold the whole house together I see you. You’re not failing. You’re adapting.
✨ Follow for more simple solutions for a complex mom life.
Juggling Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy alongside caring for a toddler presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for caregivers. ABA therapy, often used to support children with autism spectrum disorder, requires consistency and structure, which can be difficult to maintain in a busy household. However, by incorporating engaging activities such as busy books filled with matching games, alphabet and number exercises, magnetic building blocks, and daily craft bins, caregivers can create an enriching environment that keeps toddlers productively occupied. Implementing visual supports like token boards and “First, Then” visuals helps toddlers understand transitions and expectations, reducing frustration and promoting cooperation. It also fosters a positive learning atmosphere by turning therapy sessions into a familiar, almost playful experience similar to homeschool settings. Moreover, embracing a flexible approach rather than rigid routines can alleviate stress for both parents and children, allowing families to adapt organically to daily rhythms. The concept of "beautiful chaos" aptly describes this balancing act, as moments of structured learning blend with spontaneous toddler demands such as snack breaks or creative messes. This dynamic encourages caregivers to relinquish perfectionism in favor of resilience and humor, essential traits for maintaining mental well-being during intensive caregiving periods. For overwhelmed parents managing therapy schedules and young children, recognizing that adaptation is a sign of strength—not failure—is crucial. Resources and tools recommended by experienced families, often shared in community bios and support networks, provide practical solutions that have already been tested in real-life scenarios. In essence, combining ABA therapy with toddler care requires thoughtful planning, creativity, and emotional flexibility. By fostering an environment rich in engaging, age-appropriate activities and embracing supportive visual methods, families can successfully navigate this complex journey with confidence and grace.
