ABA Therapy and Social Skills: Learning to Share and Take Turns

Why Sharing and Turn-Taking Matter

For most families, moments of play are filled with laughter, creativity, and imagination. But for children with autism or developmental differences, sharing toys or waiting for a turn can feel like overwhelming challenges.

Sharing and turn-taking are the cornerstones of early social development. These skills help children build friendships, participate in school, and feel included in community activities. Without them, children may experience frustration, social isolation, or missed opportunities for connection.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provides step-by-step strategies that empower children to learn these skills in ways that feel positive, encouraging, and achievable.

How ABA Supports Sharing and Turn-Taking

ABA therapy breaks down complex social behaviors into small, teachable steps. Instead of expecting children to share or wait naturally, therapists teach these behaviors gradually, using reinforcement and consistent practice.

Step 1: Building Understanding

Many children first need to understand what sharing or turn-taking means. Therapists use visuals, role-play, or simple games to show children that “your turn” and “my turn” are part of play.

Step 2: Practicing With Support

Children begin with structured games where therapists model sharing or waiting for a turn. Prompts and encouragement guide them through each step.

Step 3: Reinforcing Success

Every attempt to share or wait is celebrated. A high-five, verbal praise, or access to a favorite toy reinforces that cooperation is rewarding.

Step 4: Expanding to Real Life

As children build confidence, therapists practice sharing and turn-taking in natural settings—at home with siblings, in classrooms with peers, and even at playgrounds or community centers.

Everyday Examples of ABA in Action

At Home

A therapist may introduce a favorite board game, guiding the child to wait while another person rolls the dice. With gentle prompting, the child learns to anticipate their turn and celebrate others’ successes.

At School

In a St. Louis classroom, a child may practice raising a hand and waiting to be called on, supported by visual cues and positive reinforcement from both teachers and therapists.

In the Community

At a local playground, children may practice waiting for the swing or sharing a slide. ABA strategies make these moments less stressful and more joyful, allowing families to enjoy community outings with confidence.

A Story of Progress: Building Friendships Through Play

Leila, a five-year-old from St. Louis, struggled with sharing toys at preschool. She often grabbed items from other children, leading to conflicts and tears.

Her ABA therapist introduced simple turn-taking games with blocks. At first, Leila needed prompts to hand over a block, but each success was rewarded with praise. Over time, she began to anticipate her friend’s turn and even smiled as they built together.

Within months, Leila’s preschool teacher noticed a change: she joined group play more often, made eye contact with peers, and even invited others to play with her. What started as a therapy goal became the foundation for real friendships.

Why Sharing and Turn-Taking Are Challenging

It’s important to recognize that these skills don’t come naturally to all children.

• Communication differences: Some children may not have the words to negotiate or ask for a turn.
• Rigid routines: Sharing may feel threatening if a child struggles with flexibility.
• Sensory needs: Loud or unpredictable group play can make turn-taking overwhelming.
• Limited social experiences: Without structured practice, children may not know how to engage with peers.

ABA therapy meets children where they are, addressing these challenges with patience and individualized strategies.

Parent Tips for Encouraging Sharing and Turn-Taking

1. Start Small

Use short, structured games at home, like rolling a ball back and forth. These simple exchanges set the stage for more complex sharing.

2. Use Visual Cues

Create a “my turn/your turn” card or use timers to show when it’s time to switch. Visuals make turn-taking concrete and predictable.

3. Model the Behavior

Demonstrate sharing with siblings or other family members. When children see adults share, they begin to understand the concept.

4. Reinforce Positively

Celebrate even small efforts. If your child hands over a toy for just a moment, acknowledge it with praise and encouragement.

5. Practice in Real-Life Situations

Bring sharing and turn-taking into everyday life, such as passing food at the dinner table or taking turns choosing a TV show.

Local Focus: Sharing Skills in St. Louis Communities

St. Louis offers many opportunities for children to practice social skills in community settings:

• Playgrounds: Turn-taking is practiced naturally on slides and swings. ABA therapists often support children in these real-world settings.
• Libraries: Storytime provides chances to share space, wait quietly, and engage with peers.
• Community programs: Many St. Louis towns host sensory-friendly events where children can safely practice sharing and turn-taking in structured, supportive environments.

By integrating therapy into local activities, children gain the confidence to apply skills where they matter most.

Long-Term Benefits of Sharing and Turn-Taking Skills

The impact of these skills goes far beyond playtime:

• Friendship building: Children learn how to connect with peers, making school and community life richer.
• School readiness: Cooperative play and patience support classroom success.
• Family harmony: Smoother play at home reduces sibling conflicts and stress.
• Future success: Turn-taking and sharing lay the groundwork for teamwork, communication, and adaptability in adulthood.

FAQ

Q1: Why does my child struggle with sharing and turn-taking?
Many children with autism find it difficult due to challenges with communication, flexibility, or sensory sensitivities. ABA breaks these skills into smaller, manageable steps.

Q2: Can sharing and turn-taking really be taught?
Yes. With structured strategies, reinforcement, and consistent practice, children can learn and enjoy these skills.

Q3: How long does it take to see progress?
It varies. Some children make small gains within weeks, while others need more time and consistent practice. Each success, no matter how small, builds momentum.

Q4: Do these skills generalize to other settings?
Absolutely. ABA ensures children practice sharing and turn-taking at home, school, and in community environments so skills carry over naturally.

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