Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses many teaching strategies to help children with autism build new skills. Two common methods are shaping and chaining.
While both are powerful tools, they’re used in different ways. Understanding the difference between shaping and chaining in ABA can help parents see how progress is made step by step.
What is Shaping in ABA?
Shaping means teaching a new skill by rewarding small steps toward the goal. Instead of waiting for the child to get it right immediately, ABA therapists reinforce each “approximation.”
For example:
- A child learning to say “ball” might first be praised for making the “b” sound.
- Next, reinforcement happens for saying “ba.”
- Over time, the child is supported until they can say the full word “ball.”
Shaping works best for skills that don’t already exist, like new words or new actions.
What is Chaining in ABA?
Chaining is used for teaching a task with multiple steps by breaking it down into smaller parts. Each step is taught and linked together (“chained”) until the full skill is mastered.
For example:
- Teaching toothbrushing might start with picking up the toothbrush.
- Then adding toothpaste.
- Next, brushing the front teeth, then the back, and so on.
Therapists may use forward chaining (starting from the first step), backward chaining (teaching the last step first), or total task chaining (working through all steps together).
Putting It Together
The main difference: shaping builds new behaviors gradually, while chaining teaches multi-step tasks in sequence. Both methods help children gain independence and confidence.
At Precious Care ABA, we use shaping, chaining, and other ABA strategies to support children across New Jersey. Our services include in-home ABA therapy and ABA therapy at daycare.
Learn more about our New Jersey ABA programs today.
FAQs
Is shaping or chaining better in ABA?
Neither is “better.” Shaping helps with brand-new behaviors, while chaining works for multi-step skills.
What’s an example of shaping in autism therapy?
Encouraging a child to say a word by rewarding each sound until the full word is spoken.
What’s an example of chaining in ABA?
Teaching dressing skills step by step, such as putting on socks, then shoes, and tying laces.
Sources:
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/shaping-in-aba/
- https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-11669-021
- https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/behavior-chaining/
- https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/applied-behavior-analysis.html
- https://gsep.pepperdine.edu/blog/posts/aba-techniques-strategies-for-behavior-analysts.htm
