Pairing is one of the most important early steps in ABA therapy. It refers to the process of building trust and positive relationships between the child, therapist, and family.
Progress begins when a child feels safe, understood, and valued.
Effective pairing helps therapy feel supportive rather than demanding.
What pairing looks like in practice
During pairing, therapists focus on:
Creating positive, enjoyable interactions
Following the child’s interests
Minimizing demands while building rapport
Establishing trust before introducing structured goals
This process allows the child to associate therapy with positive experiences.
The role of families in pairing
Families play a key role by:
Sharing insights about the child’s preferences and routines
Reinforcing positive interactions at home
Collaborating with the therapy team
When therapists and families work together, consistency and trust are strengthened.
Why pairing matters
Strong relationships support engagement, reduce resistance, and create a foundation for meaningful learning and long-term success.
