Why families start ABA around age 2
Applied Behavior Analysis is a research-based approach to teaching skills and reducing barriers that get in the way of learning. It is widely recognized as a medically necessary treatment for autism and is covered by public and private insurance in most states, including Illinois.
Many children begin ABA between ages 2 and 6. Starting in the toddler years can be helpful because:
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Communication is just beginning. Teaching a child to request, comment, and respond early can change daily life for the whole family.
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Play and social attention are still forming. Joint attention, imitation, and simple play with others are easier to build when they are already part of a 2-year-old’s day.
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Routines are still flexible. Toilet training, mealtimes, transitions, and sleep can be shaped before difficult patterns become entrenched.
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Parents are already the child’s most important teachers. Coaching caregivers is a core part of early programs, not an add-on.
Age 2 is not a deadline. Children start ABA at many ages and still make meaningful progress. If your child is 2, or close to it, and you have questions about autism, language delay, or behavior, it is reasonable to ask whether ABA is a fit.
What ABA looks like for a 2-year-old
Therapy with a toddler should not look like a desk and a stack of flashcards. At BGF Children's Therapy, early programs are built around play, routines, and the skills your family cares about most.
A typical early-intervention focus may include:
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Responding to name and simple instructions
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Requesting with words, signs, pictures, or an AAC device
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Imitation — actions, sounds, and play
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Joint attention and sharing interest with a parent or sibling
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Expanding play beyond a narrow set of toys or actions
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Tolerating transitions, waiting, and everyday demands
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Foundations for toilet training, dressing, and mealtimes
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Reducing behaviors that interfere with learning or safety
The BCBA designs the plan after getting to know your child. Behavior therapists then work 1:1 under that plan, with ongoing supervision and data so the program can change as skills change. There is no one-size-fits-all curriculum.
In-home and clinic options in Chicago
Skills are more likely to stick when they are practiced where they are needed. That is why we offer ABA in more than one setting.
In your home or other natural settings. Many toddler goals — requesting a snack, playing with a sibling, getting ready to leave the house — belong at home. In-home sessions let the therapist teach in the environment where those moments already happen.
In our Chicago clinic. Some families prefer a dedicated therapy space. Our clinic at 6430 N. Central Ave. in Chicago (Forest Glen / 60646) is available when that setting is a better fit.
The right mix depends on your child, your schedule, and the goals you set together. We will talk through options when you call.
How we work with parents
A 2-year-old spends most of the week with family, not with a therapist. Parent and caregiver involvement is part of the program.
Your BCBA will explain the goals in plain language, show you what the therapist is doing, and help you use the same strategies during everyday routines. The aim is not to turn home into a clinic. It is to give you tools that make mornings, mealtimes, and play feel more successful.
Who provides the therapy
BGF Children's Therapy is BCBA-owned and BCBA-supervised. Our founder, Bradley G. Frieswyk, MA, BCBA, LBA, has more than 30 years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. Our Clinical Director, Nicole Cissell Notowidigdo, MA, BCBA, LBA has been in the field since 2003 and helped launch the practice.
We are a practicum site for several BCBA/LBA graduate training programs and hire carefully. Every behavior therapist receives foundational RBT training plus training specific to your child’s program. Supervision is ongoing, not a one-time orientation.
Members of our clinical team have worked with children as young as 2 as well as older children and, in some cases, adults. Early intervention is part of the work we already do.
Is my 2-year-old too young - or too late?
Two is not too young for thoughtfully designed ABA. Play-based teaching, parent coaching, and short, well-structured teaching moments are appropriate for toddlers.
Two is also not the only door. If your child is older than 2 and you are just beginning to look at ABA, you are not too late. We design programs for the child in front of us, not for a single age band.
If you are still in the evaluation process, you do not have to wait until every piece of paperwork is finished to call and ask questions. We can help you understand what ABA would look like for your child and what the next steps usually involve.
Insurance and getting started
ABA therapy is considered medically necessary for autism in Illinois and is generally covered by public and private health insurance. Coverage details vary by plan. When you contact us, we will help you understand the intake process and what information we need to begin.
Starting is straightforward:
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Call (312) 806-7937 or email info@bgftherapy.com.
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Tell us your child’s age, your main concerns, and whether you already have a diagnosis or evaluation.
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We will talk through availability, setting (home or clinic), and next steps.
There is no need to prepare a perfect summary. Parents usually start with a few examples: “He doesn’t point,” “She isn’t using words yet,” “Transitions lead to long tantrums,” or “We just received an autism diagnosis.” That is enough to begin a conversation.
Chicago families we serve
Our clinic is on the North Side of Chicago at 6430 N. Central Avenue, in the Edgebrook / Forest Glen area. We work with families in Chicago and nearby communities who want individualized ABA rather than a predetermined, one-size-fits-all program.
Frequently asked questions
Do you work with children as young as 2?
Yes. Our team has experience with children from age 2 through later childhood. Early programs are adjusted for a toddler’s attention, play, and family routines.
Is ABA only for children with an autism diagnosis?
ABA is most often used with children on the autism spectrum and is the service we provide. If you are mid-evaluation and not sure about next steps, call and we can talk through timing.
Will my 2-year-old sit at a table for hours?
No. Early sessions are built around play, motivation, and short teaching opportunities. The plan is individualized.
Can therapy happen at home?
Yes. We provide ABA in the clinic and in natural settings such as home so skills can be practiced where they are needed.
How do I know if we should start now?
If language, social engagement, play, or behavior are significant concerns at age 2, it is worth a conversation. Starting a discussion does not commit you to a full program.
How do I get started?
Call (312) 806-7937 or email info@bgftherapy.com. You can also use the contact form on this site.
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