How to Build Rapport With Nonverbal Clients in ABA Therapy

Q:
How do I build rapport with a nonverbal child in ABA therapy? How involved should I be during in‑home ABA therapy?
‍
A:
Start by backing off. I mean that literally. When I walk into a session with a nonverbal client, I don’t talk much, I don’t direct, and I never force engagement. I sit a few feet away and watch.

What do they gravitate toward? Is it lining up cars, flipping pages, pacing, or sitting in silence? That’s where I start.

Parallel play is one of my go-to strategies. If they’re stacking blocks, I’ll stack mine next to theirs without saying a word. If they’re flipping through a book, I’ll do the same with another copy.

Sometimes I sit quietly and mimic their rhythm. Rapport with a nonverbal child isn’t about asking questions or giving high-fives. It’s about showing them that you’re safe, predictable, and not pushing an agenda.

I remember one child who would run away the second anyone spoke to him. So I spent the first three sessions sitting across the room, matching his pace with a quiet toy.

By session four, he walked over and handed me one. That was the moment we started building trust. I also track micro-responses. A side glance. A pause before walking away. A slight smile. Those are green lights.

I use soft tones, minimal words, and follow their lead.If something doesn't work, I change it. Rapport isn’t a script. It’s built moment by moment through presence, patience, and honest observation..
‍
More resources:
What is autism?
‍What is ABA?
How can ABA help?