When a child begins autism therapies, families often ask whether Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) should be used on its own or together with other interventions such as Speech Therapy (SLP) and Occupational Therapy (OT). In Colorado, many children receive more than one therapy at the same time, and parents often want to understand how these therapies complement one another. While ABA is a highly effective evidence based approach, children with autism often benefit most when skill building happens across multiple developmental areas. Integrating ABA with speech and occupational therapy can strengthen communication, sensory processing, daily living skills, and independence in real life settings such as home, school, and community environments.
Autism affects more than one area of development at a time. A child who becomes upset when asked to complete a task may be struggling with more than behavior. They may have difficulty communicating what they need, managing sensory discomfort, or organizing their movements. When therapies work toward shared goals, progress in one area supports progress in another. For example:
Integration does not mean more hours or more pressure. It means aligning methods to create smoother learning and stronger results.
ABA focuses on teaching meaningful skills and reducing behaviors that interfere with learning and participation. ABA strengthens:
ABA also uses data based decision making to track progress and adjust teaching methods.
Speech therapists help children express themselves and understand others. Speech therapy supports:
Speech gives children the words or tools to communicate, while ABA creates opportunities to use those skills consistently.
OT helps children participate more comfortably and successfully in everyday routines. OT supports:
OT helps children feel physically and sensory ready to learn and interact.
A child learning to request help verbally or using a picture card in speech therapy can practice the same skill in ABA when frustration begins. This leads to fewer meltdowns and more confident communication.
If a child avoids foods due to texture, OT may address sensory tolerance and oral motor skills, while ABA reinforces staying at the table and trying small bites with support.
Speech may work on answering questions, OT may improve fine motor control for classroom tasks, and ABA can support staying seated, turn taking, and following group instructions. When skills are supported across multiple contexts, children build independence faster.
Parents in Colorado often report that combining approaches creates a more complete and effective support system.
Integrated therapy may benefit children who:
If progress feels slow or disconnected across therapies, integration can create new momentum.
At Kiwi Kids ABA, we focus on helping children build meaningful skills through compassionate and individualized ABA therapy. Many of the children we support also participate in speech or occupational therapy, and we encourage families to share goals and updates from other providers. This allows us to align ABA strategies with what matters most for your child and maintain consistency across environments. Our goal is to help children build confidence, communication, independence, and skills that last in everyday life.
If you would like guidance on how ABA can support your child’s development alongside other services, contact Kiwi Kids ABA to schedule a consultation.
Our team of experienced therapists is dedicated to helping children with autism and other developmental disabilities reach their full potential. We are committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your child's development.