What is Natural Environment Teaching (NET)?

Positive Reinforcement • February 14, 2021

What is Natural Environment Teaching (NET)?

Autism Child Playing

Natural Environment Teaching (NET) is a term used in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), also known as naturalistic teaching. It can be described as skills that are taught or generalized within a natural environment. A natural environment is any place where a child can play or learn, which can include anywhere and everywhere. In fact, NET happens even when you don’t realize it. Children are learning non-stop, which means children are not limited to learning in only a classroom setting. Some of the most important skills are developed from everyday activities and simply playing.

NET is an evidence-based teaching method that implements teaching opportunities while kids are playing and doing everyday activities. It targets important skills, such as social, language, cognitive, and motor skills, and builds a good foundation. In ABA therapy, we use techniques that are intentionally designed to help actively engage. Research studies have shown that when a child is engaged through active participation their learning is more meaningful and generalized.

The benefits of using Natural Environment Teaching for children are huge. It is effective since it allows the child to initiate the learning and provides a way to increase learning. Through NET, therapists and parents can create learning experiences designed to encourage the child to connect what they learned with what they already know. Children love to have attention, and with NET, we are able to teach children while being attentive to them and having their attention.

NET is not just for the therapist to teach with, it can be used by anyone—parents, siblings, or grandparents. This also provides the child with additional learning experiences, because they will have more learning opportunities that increase the quantity and quality of learning. The more NET is incorporated into a child’s life, the more they will learn and build on their current knowledge.

At Positive Reinforcement PLLC we value NET. We believe in making therapy fun. Call today to find ABA treatment in Fairfax, Manassas, Front Royal, Winchester, Bluemont, Round Hill, Purcellville, Leesburg, and Ashburn, Virginia. 

Positive Reinforcement

Child sleeping in bed - ABA therapy for autism
By Positive Reinforcement January 8, 2026
If you know and love a child with autism, you are likely no stranger to the sleep challenges that many face.
A toddler boy - When to start ABA therapy?
By Positive Reinforcement January 8, 2026
One of the first questions often posed by the family of a child with autism is, “How soon does my child need to start interventions such as ABA therapy?
mother reading to daughter - aba therapy for autism
By Positive Reinforcement December 30, 2025
Learning to read with solid accuracy and understanding is a challenge for many children. Below are some of the best research-based techniques for increasing reading comprehension, particularly in students with autism.
Child washing hands - how to chain for autism
By Positive Reinforcement December 3, 2025
In ABA therapy, the term “chaining” refers to a technique of breaking a task down into the individual steps required for mastery.
Girl with gift - aba therapy for autism
By Positive Reinforcement November 25, 2025
Holiday gift-giving is a wonderful opportunity to support the developmental needs of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD.
Thanksgiving with kid - ABA Therapy for Autism
By Positive Reinforcement November 25, 2025
With a little forethought and preparation, you can make gatherings like Thanksgiving a good experience for everyone.
Boy playing with car - ABA Therapy
November 3, 2025
We communicate all day, every day, and there’s no better place to practice that communication than in the home
Flashcards - ABA Therapy for Autism
By Positive Reinforcement October 22, 2025
Learn practical ABA therapy tips and behavior techniques parents can use at home to support their child’s growth. Expert advice from Positive Reinforcement’s ABA specialists.
Dinosaurs - ABA therapy for autism
By Positive Reinforcement September 30, 2025
Those who work with children with autism can attest that they carry with them a wide variety of special interests.
Child prepping food with mother - ABA Therapy for Autism
By Positive Reinforcement September 24, 2025
The path to independence looks different from person to person, but even more so for children with autism.