Incidental Teaching
In Plain Language
Using a naturally arising interest or initiation as an opportunity to teach.
ABA Definition
Instruction embedded in ongoing activities in which learner initiation occasions teaching and access to a naturally related consequence.
Everyday Example
A child asks about a plant, and an adult builds on that interest to teach a new word.
ABA Example
A learner initiates interest in a game and an instructor supports an accessible request before continuing play.
How It May Be Used
Follow interests without making essential items or communication access conditional.