Reducing Problem Behaviors in Public: ABA Tools for Real-World Parenting

Managing problem behaviors at home is challenging enough, but handling them in public can feel overwhelming. Grocery stores, restaurants, parks, and other social settings present unique stressors for children with autism—and for their parents. Fortunately, the tools of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be adapted for real-world use to support your child and reduce challenging behaviors in public settings.

In this article, we’ll explore why problem behaviors happen in public, what proactive steps you can take, and which ABA techniques are most effective when you’re out and about.

Why Public Settings Are Especially Challenging

Children with autism may struggle with public environments due to:

Sensory overload: Bright lights, loud noises, and unpredictable movement.
Unfamiliar routines: Transitions and new expectations can trigger anxiety.
Limited access to communication tools: Making it harder to express needs.
Attention-seeking or escape-motivated behaviors: To avoid tasks or gain access to preferred items.

Recognizing that these behaviors are forms of communication is essential. With the right support, children can learn to navigate public spaces more calmly and confidently.

Start with Preparation: The Power of Priming – Priming means preparing your child for what to expect before a public outing. Preparation reduces the anxiety of the unknown and helps your child understand the expectations.
- Describe what will happen: “We’re going to the grocery store. First we’ll get a cart, then we’ll pick out three things, and then we’ll go home.”
- Use social stories or visual sequences to walk your child through the trip.
- Practice the environment during low-stress times (e.g., visit a store without needing to shop).
Use Visual Supports On the Go – These supports reduce verbal demands and provide clarity, especially in noisy or fast-paced environments. For examples and templates, refer to the Visual Supports Tool Kit by Autism Speaks. Bring along portable visual aids:
- A mini visual schedule for the outing.
- First-then cards (e.g., “First library, then playground”).
- A visual choice board for snacks, breaks, or reinforcers.
Set Clear Expectations Before You Go – For example: “If you stay with me in the store and use your words, you can pick a snack before we leave.” Before you leave home or arrive at a public place, explain:
- What behaviors are expected.
- What the rewards will be for positive behavior.
- What the consequences will be if expectations aren’t met.
Use Functional Communication Training (FCT) – Teach your child to express needs in appropriate ways rather than through problem behavior. In public, this could mean teaching:
- “Break, please” instead of yelling.
- “All done” instead of throwing items.
- Pointing to a picture card for “bathroom” or “go home.”

For guidance on implementing FCT, see the Functional Communication Training Brief by Vanderbilt University.

Plan Reinforcers and Deliver Them Immediately – Behavior change is faster when rewards are consistent and immediate. Bring reinforcers with you and deliver them promptly when your child behaves well. Identify what your child is most motivated by:
- A snack or toy they enjoy.
- Verbal praise (“Great job staying next to me!”).
- A preferred activity after the errand (e.g., playground, tablet time).
Keep Outings Short and Purposeful – Don’t start with a full-day adventure. Begin with short, manageable trips where success is more likely. As your child builds skills and confidence, you can increase the length and complexity of outings. For example:
- A 5-minute walk into the post office.
- A quick grocery store visit for just one item.
Bring a Transition Object – These objects create a sense of security in unfamiliar surroundings. A comfort item like a toy, stress ball, or familiar object can:
- Help your child self-regulate.
- Serve as a bridge from one environment to the next.
Minimize Attention to Problem Behavior – Learn how Differential Reinforcement supports this approach in the Differential Reinforcement Brief by ERIC. When possible and safe, avoid giving a big reaction to minor outbursts. Attention—even negative—can reinforce behavior. Instead:
- Stay calm and neutral.
- Redirect to a visual or communication card.
- Reinforce a calm replacement behavior as soon as it occurs.
Have a Plan for Escalation – Even with the best preparation, meltdowns can happen. Remain supportive, not punitive. The goal is to help your child recover and try again next time. Be ready with a calm, consistent plan:
- Remove your child to a quieter space if needed.
- Use practiced calming strategies (deep breaths, squeeze toys, etc.).
- End the outing early if safety is at risk.
Reflect and Adjust – Over time, your child will learn that public settings are predictable, manageable, and even enjoyable. After each outing:
- Reflect on what worked and what didn’t.
- Take note of triggers, successes, and timing.
- Adjust your strategy for the next trip.

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Final Thoughts

Problem behaviors in public don’t mean your child is misbehaving—they’re a signal that they need help coping. ABA provides tools that parents can realistically use outside the home to support communication, reduce stress, and build confidence.

With preparation, visual aids, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement, you can make real-world outings smoother and more successful—for both your child and your family.

Reducing Problem Behaviors in Public: ABA Tools for Real-World Parenting

Why Public Settings Are Especially Challenging

Start Your Child’s ABA Therapy Journey Today

Final Thoughts

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