Understanding ABA Therapy and Why the Setting Matters
ABA therapy helps children with ASD build communication, social, and daily living skills. But the setting, whether in-home or in-center, can dramatically shape your child’s experience and success.
Benefits of In-Home ABA Therapy
Pros:
- Delivered in a familiar environment
- Can be incorporated in daily routines (meals, bedtime, etc.)
- Often more flexible for school-aged children
Considerations:
- Requires distraction-free space
- May lack consistency or peer interaction
- Limited access to therapy tools
Benefits of Center-Based ABA Therapy
Pros:
- Structured, distraction-free environment
- Peer interaction encourages natural social learning
- Equipped with sensory tools and play areas
- Prepares children for school-like readiness
Ascend Autism’s center-based services offer half and full-day sessions, combining flexibility for families with consistent therapeutic engagement.
When To Consider for Each Options
For School Aged Children (6+)
- In-home ABA can be practical due to daytime school.
- Easier scheduling for busier families.
- Less transportation is required.
For Children Ages 18 Months to 6 Years Old
- Center-based therapy is ideal to build core skills before school starts.
- It helps establish routines, and readiness for kindergarten.
- Provides daily social exposure and hands-on learning.
| In-Home | Center-Based | |
| Tools and Equipment | Familiar | Comprehensive |
| School Readiness | Variable | Strongly Emphasized |
| Social Opportunities | Low | High due to daily peer interactions |
| Parental Involvement | Higher | Supported, but less intensive |
| Setting | Familiar | Structured and Stimulating |
| Ideal Age Range | 6+ | 18 months – 6 years old |
Questions to Ask Yourself
Does Your Child:
- Need support with group settings?
- Struggle with focus without structure?
- Learn best through social modeling?
Does Your Family:
- Have an appropriate space for sessions?
- Have time and transportation to attend center-based therapy?
Does Your Family:
- Ascend Autism: Offers in-home and center-based programs
- Compassionate Behaviors: Mixed services based on availability
- Talcott Center & Prism Autism Center: Center-based services only
Choose what aligns best with your goals, but for many families, center-based therapy delivers faster progress and broader developmental impact.
How Ascend Autism Supports Families in Farmington
Whether you choose in-home or center-based therapy, Ascend Autism’s Farmington ABA programs provide compassionate, customized support rooted in clinical expertise. Our team includes certified therapists and experienced BCBAs who work closely with you to set goals, measure progress, and adjust plans as your child grows.
We accept insurance for both in-home and center-based therapy. When you contact us, our staff will confirm your coverage and help coordinate the therapy process from day one.
Address: 50 Stanford Drive Farmington, CT 06032
Phone: (860) 321-8604
Learn more about our Farmington location!
Final Thoughts: Choosing What’s Right for Your Child
Deciding between in-home and center-based ABA therapy doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right information and support, you can feel confident about choosing a path that fits your child’s needs.
Whether your child thrives in a center setting or needs the comfort of home, Ascend Autism is here to help. We offer both options and guide families through every step of the process.
Have questions about ABA therapy in Farmington, CT? Contact Ascend Autism to explore your options. Our team is ready to listen, answer your questions, and help you get started with services that match your child’s developmental goals.
