top of page

Naturalistic Developmental Behavioural Intervention (NDBI)

With over 30 years of research and practice behind it, Naturalistic Developmental Behavioural Intervention (NDBI) is a naturalistic, play-based teaching approach that is now considered best practice for toddlers and young children with developmental delays, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and challenging behaviours.

Playing with Play Dough
Father and Son Playing
Feeding a child a cookie
Brushing Teeth
Walking in Nature

NDBIs: Empirically Validated Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Years of evidence have proven that interventions based on Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) are effective for teaching skills to children with ASD and reducing challenging behaviours. Research has since moved towards blending developmentally-focused models with ABA, where interventions are delivered within natural activities (eg., play, games) and routines (eg., home/school routines). 

​

NDBIs combine effective teaching methods based on the science of ABA with the developmental methods known to enhance motivation, engagement and learning. This blend is then used to embed learning into activities that are appropriate and fun for individuals and families regardless of age or developmental level.

​

Key features of NDBIs:

  • Teaching functional skills for increasing quality of life 

  • Following the child's lead and interests 

  • Focusing on natural reinforcement 

  • Varying complexity to expand skills 

  • Regularly measuring progress

bottom of page