Beyond Trial Counts: Measuring Play and Engagement During Naturalistic Interventions

Play-based learning is essential for young children receiving behavior-analytic services. Behavior analysts and technicians frequently embed instruction and learning opportunities within play routines. Traditional data collection methods, such as restricted event recording using pre-selected instructional targets, however, may hinder the creativity and child-led nature of play-based routines. This presentation examines key differences between Natural Environment Teaching (NET) and Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs), with particular attention to how each approach guides instructional decision-making and measurement in early intervention. Participants will be introduced to practical strategies for identifying and monitoring meaningful social and play behaviors using flexible methods such as simple frequency counts and rating scales. These approaches are designed to better capture change within dynamic, child-led play routines while maintaining analytic rigor. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with concrete tools to align data collection practices with developmentally appropriate, play-based intervention, ultimately supporting more socially meaningful outcomes for young children.

Speaker Name

Tracy J. Raulston, PhD, BCBA-D