Explaining Relational Frame Theory: Keep It Simple
So, what is Relational Frame Theory? Don’t worry, I won’t get too technical.
Imagine a child learning that a dog is different from a cat. They don’t just
memorize “dog” and “cat”—they start to understand relationships, like “a
dog is bigger than a cat” or “a cat is softer than a dog.” That ability to
connect ideas is what RFT is all about. It’s how we humans build language
and thinking skills. For most kids, this happens without much help, but for
kids with learning disabilities—like autism or delays in speech—it doesn’t
always come naturally. They might need us to guide them step-by-step to
make those connections.
Why does this matter? Because once kids can relate ideas—like “same,”
“different,” “more,” or “less”—they can solve problems, talk to friends, and
understand their world better. RFT gives us a way to teach that, and it’s a
big deal in ABA because it builds on what kids already know to help them
learn more. For example, if a child knows “apple” means a red fruit, we can
teach them “an apple is not an orange” and then “an orange is smaller than
a watermelon.” It’s like building a ladder of understanding, one rung at a
time.
Practical Exercises: Fun and Easy for Anyone
So, let’s get practical! Here are three simple exercises you can use with
young kids, whether they have learning disabilities or not. These are
inspired by RFT and ABA, but they’re designed for anyone to try—no
certification needed. I’ll keep them fun and hands-on, because kids learn
best when they’re engaged.
1. “Same or Different” Game
• What You Need: A few toys or pictures—like a ball, a block,
and a doll.
• How to Play: Hold up two items and ask, “Are these the
same or different?” Start easy: a red ball and a blue ball are
different colors. Then mix it up: a ball and a doll are different
shapes. Cheer them on when they get it right!
• Why It Works: This teaches kids to spot relationships, a
key part of RFT. For kids who struggle, you can point and say,
“Look, this is round, this is not,” to guide them.
2. “More or Less” Snack Time
• What You Need: Small snacks like crackers or grapes.
• How to Play: Give the child a few crackers, then ask, “Do
you want more or less?” If they say “more,” add one and cheer. If
they say “less,” take one away and smile. Keep it playful!
• Why It Works: This builds the idea of quantity
relationships, which helps with language and decision-making. It’s
also a natural part of their day.
3. “I See, You See” Pointing Game
• What You Need: Just you and the child!
• How to Play: Point to something—like a chair—and say, “I
see the chair. What do you see?” Encourage them to point and
name something. If they can’t, help them by saying, “You see the
table!”
• Why It Works: This introduces “I” and “you” differences,
which is huge for social skills. It’s simple but helps kids see the
world from two perspectives.
Connecting to Self-Advocacy
• Each of these ties directly to self-advocacy:
• Same/Different: Knowing what’s mine vs. yours helps kids
claim their space or ask for help.
• More/Less: Expressing quantity needs teaches them to
voice preferences and seek change.
• I/You: Recognizing self vs. other builds the confidence to
assert “This is me, and I matter.”
• For kids with learning disabilities, these skills don’t always come
naturally, but with gentle guidance, they become tools to navigate the
world and speak up.
