Benefits of Using Natural Environment Training for Social Skill Development

Natural Environment Training (NET) is a teaching strategy within ABA therapy that takes place in real-world settings—such as a child’s home, school, or playground—rather than in a traditional therapy room. Unlike other structured methods, like Discrete Trial Training (DTT), NET leverages natural environments to help children learn in situations they will encounter daily.

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of NET for social skill development and how it helps children grow and thrive in real-life environments.

Why NET is Effective for Social Skill Development

Natural Environment Training (NET) is particularly effective for social skill development because it teaches children in real-world settings where they naturally interact with others. This approach helps children learn the skills they need for day-to-day social situations to ensure that the skills they develop are both practical and transferable.

Here’s why NET works:

Children practice social skills in familiar, everyday environments
Skills learned in natural settings are easier to apply elsewhere
Using the child’s interests keeps them motivated to engage
Real-life interactions help build social confidence
Learning in comfortable environments reduces stress
NET integrates learning into fun, enjoyable activities

Benefits of NET for Social Skill Development

Promotes Social Interaction

One of the most important benefits of NET is its ability to promote spontaneous and authentic social interactions. Social skills, like turn-taking, sharing, and initiating conversations, often occur naturally during free play and real-life interactions. By embedding teaching into these everyday moments, NET helps children practice social skills in a way that feels more natural and less forced.

Increases Motivation

Children are more likely to engage in activities that interest them, and NET leverages this principle by using the child’s favorite things as reinforcers. Whether it’s a particular toy, activity, or even a preferred social interaction (like playing with a sibling or friend), using real-world motivators increases the likelihood that children will engage in the social interactions that need practice.

Improves Generalization

Unlike traditional therapy settings, which may feel isolated or artificial, the skills learned in NET are practiced in real-world settings where they will actually be used. For example, a child may learn how to ask for help or share with others while playing with peers, and this can easily translate to other settings, such as at school or during family outings. This improves the overall generalization of skills, which is a key to success for long-term development.

Reduces Overwhelming or Artificial Environment Feelings

Traditional therapy sessions can sometimes feel overwhelming for children, especially if they involve rigid structures or unfamiliar environments. NET, however, allows children to learn in comfortable, familiar settings where they can feel more at ease. This approach reduces stress and anxiety, creating a positive learning experience that encourages children to engage in social interactions more freely.

Better Communication Skills

NET offers opportunities for children to practice communication skills in real time. Whether it’s requesting something they want, sharing their thoughts, or initiating a conversation with a peer, NET encourages children to develop functional communication skills. This real-time practice leads to more meaningful and effective social exchanges.

Examples of NET Techniques for Social Skill Development

NET uses a variety of techniques to help children develop social skills, including:

Peer Interaction Games: Playtime with peers offers a natural context to teach important skills like turn-taking, sharing, and cooperative play. By engaging in these games, children can practice social behaviors in a fun and low-pressure environment.
Natural Reinforcers: In NET, therapists use what motivates the child naturally, whether it’s a favorite toy, an enjoyable activity, or peer interaction. By using what the child already finds rewarding, NET helps make the learning process more engaging and effective.
Incorporating Family Involvement: Parents and family members can play a crucial role in NET by becoming involved in the learning process. By practicing social skills together, families can reinforce what children learn in therapy and continue supporting them in real-life situations.
Teaching in Routine Activities: Many daily activities—such as going to the store, attending a birthday party, or having a playdate—present opportunities to practice social skills. These routine interactions provide valuable practice in a natural environment, helping children navigate social situations they’ll encounter in everyday life.

Conclusion

Natural Environment Training (NET) offers numerous benefits for social skill development by teaching children in real-world environments. It promotes social interaction, increases motivation, improves the generalization of skills, and helps children develop communication skills that will serve them in daily life. Incorporating NET into ABA therapy can help children learn social skills in a way that is both effective and engaging.

If you’re interested in how NET can support your child’s social skill development, Childwise ABA offers ABA therapy in Ohio, as well as in nearby states like Michigan and Colorado. Our experienced therapists are trained in using NET to support children with autism and other developmental disorders, ensuring that learning happens in natural, real-life settings.