Discrete Trial Training (DTT): What Parents Need to Know

discrete trial training aba techniques parent guide

If your child receives ABA therapy, you may have heard the term “Discrete Trial Training” or “DTT.” It is one of the most well-known and widely used techniques in applied behavior analysis, and there is a good chance your child’s therapy program includes some form of it.

But what exactly is DTT, and how does it help your child learn? This guide explains the basics in plain language so you can feel confident understanding this important part of your child’s treatment.

What is Discrete Trial Training?

Discrete Trial Training is a structured teaching method used in ABA therapy. It breaks skills down into small, distinct steps — called “trials” — and teaches them one at a time in a clear, predictable format.

Each trial has three parts:

  1. The instruction (antecedent) — The therapist gives a clear, specific direction or presents a stimulus. For example, the therapist places two picture cards on the table and says, “Point to the dog.”
  2. The child’s response (behavior) — The child responds to the instruction. They might point to the correct card, give an incorrect answer, or not respond at all.
  3. The consequence — If the child responds correctly, the therapist immediately provides reinforcement — praise, a high-five, or a brief turn with a preferred toy. If the child responds incorrectly or does not respond, the therapist provides a correction and moves on.

This three-part structure is repeated multiple times, giving the child many opportunities to practice the skill and receive feedback.

A Step-by-Step Example

Let’s walk through what DTT might look like in a real therapy session.

Goal: Teaching a child to identify colors.

  • Trial 1: The therapist places a red card and a blue card on the table. “Touch red.” The child touches the red card. “Great job! That is red!” The therapist offers a small reward.
  • Trial 2: The therapist rearranges the cards. “Touch red.” The child touches the blue card. “Let me help you. This is red.” The therapist guides the child’s hand to the correct card and moves on to the next trial.
  • Trial 3: The therapist presents the cards again. “Touch red.” The child touches the red card. “You got it! Awesome!”

Over many trials, the child learns to consistently identify the color without prompts or help.

What Skills Can DTT Teach?

DTT is a versatile technique that can be used to teach a wide range of skills, including:

  • Language and communication — Labeling objects, answering questions, requesting items
  • Academic skills — Identifying letters, numbers, shapes, and colors
  • Self-care skills — Following step-by-step routines for tasks like hand washing or brushing teeth
  • Social skills — Greeting others, making eye contact, taking turns
  • Listening and following directions — Responding to simple and multi-step instructions

Because DTT breaks complex skills into small pieces, it is especially helpful for children who are just beginning to learn a skill or who need extra repetition and structure to master it.

The Role of Reinforcement

Reinforcement is what makes DTT work. When a child gives a correct response and immediately receives something motivating — whether it is verbal praise, a sticker, or a few seconds with a favorite toy — they are more likely to give that correct response again in the future.

The key word is “immediately.” In DTT, the reinforcement comes right after the correct response so the child makes a clear connection between what they did and the positive outcome. Over time, the therapist may gradually reduce the frequency or intensity of reinforcement as the child masters the skill.

The type of reinforcement is individualized to each child. What motivates one child may not motivate another, so the therapy team works to identify what is most meaningful for your child.

Benefits of Discrete Trial Training

DTT has been studied extensively, and research consistently supports its effectiveness. Some key benefits include:

  • Structured and predictable — The clear format helps children understand what is expected, which can reduce anxiety and increase engagement
  • Highly measurable — Because each trial produces a specific data point (correct or incorrect), the therapy team can track progress with precision
  • Efficient for teaching new skills — The repetition and immediate feedback help children acquire skills quickly
  • Adaptable — DTT can be adjusted for difficulty, pacing, and the type of skill being taught

Limitations and Considerations

While DTT is a powerful tool, it is not the only technique used in ABA therapy — and it is not meant to be. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Generalization — Skills learned through DTT in a structured setting sometimes need additional practice to transfer to natural environments. That is why most ABA programs pair DTT with natural environment teaching (NET) and other strategies.
  • Can feel repetitive — Because DTT involves many trials of the same skill, some children may lose motivation over time. Skilled therapists vary the pace, mix in preferred activities, and keep sessions engaging.
  • Not a standalone approach — DTT works best as part of a comprehensive ABA program that includes a variety of teaching methods tailored to your child.

How DTT Fits Into Your Child’s ABA Program

A well-designed ABA program uses multiple techniques, and DTT is one piece of the puzzle. Your child’s Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) will determine when and how DTT is used based on your child’s individual goals and learning style.

For example, a child who is learning to label animals might practice the skill through DTT at the therapy table and then reinforce it through natural environment teaching during a trip to the zoo or while reading a picture book. This combination helps the child learn the skill and use it in real life.

What Parents Can Do

Understanding DTT helps you support your child’s progress at home. Here are a few tips:

  • Ask your BCBA what skills are being targeted through DTT so you can reinforce them at home
  • Keep it positive — If you practice at home, focus on encouragement and keep sessions short and fun
  • Celebrate progress — Even small steps forward are meaningful. Consistent practice adds up over time
  • Stay connected with the therapy team — Regular communication with your child’s BCBA and RBT ensures everyone is working toward the same goals

If you want to learn more about the techniques used in your child’s ABA program, our team at Inquiring Minds is always happy to answer questions. Visit our services page to learn more about our approach, or get in touch to schedule a consultation.