Presentation Overview

Ethical and Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Using NDBIs to Support Young Autistic Children

Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) are widely recognized as an evidence-based and developmentally appropriate approach for supporting young autistic children. Grounded in developmental science, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and relationship-based interaction, NDBIs emphasize play, engagement, communication, and meaningful social connection within natural routines and activities. For behavior technicians working directly with very young children, understanding why these practices align with both developmental needs and ethical responsibilities is essential. This presentation will explore how NDBI strategies support ethical, compassionate, and socially valid intervention for young autistic children. Participants will examine the importance of following the child’s motivation and engagement, embedding learning within play and daily routines, and prioritizing interactions that are respectful, neuroaffirming, and relationship-centered. Ethical considerations related to assent, dignity, individualized care, and developmentally appropriate practice will also be discussed through the lens of direct implementation.

Learning Objectives

What you'll learn...after completing this presentation, participants will be able to

  • Identify key characteristics of NDBIs that make them developmentally appropriate for young autistic children.

  • Describe ethical considerations related to assent, engagement, dignity, and socially valid intervention within early childhood autism services.

  • Review practical NDBI strategies that support compassionate, naturalistic, and relationship-based interactions during direct therapy sessions.

Continuing Education

The NDBI Navigator is an approved continuing education provider for the BACB, QABA, and IBAO.

Professionals from other disciplines will receive a professional development certificate, which they can submit to their respective licensing boards for consideration.

Your Presenter

Dr. Jamie Hughes-Lika, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, IBA

Dr. Jamie is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst at the doctoral level (BCBA-D), a licensed behavior analyst (LBA), an International Behavior Analyst (IBA), and an Early Start Denver Model Certified Therapist and Trainer. She has been providing evidence-based services for children with autism and related disorders for over 29 years, and for the past 14 years, she has specialized in interventions for young autistic children (0-4 years). She presents her research at national and international conferences and her research studies are published in peer-reviewed journals. She is the founder of The NDBI Navigator, an organization dedicated to supporting professionals working with young autistic children. Rooted in the principles of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs), it offers accessible, evidence-based, and developmentally appropriate resources to help clinicians, educators, and behavior analysts turn knowledge into meaningful practice.

Presentation Content

  1. 1

    • About the Presentation

    • Meet Dr. Jamie Hughes-Lika

    • Professional Practice Reminder

    • Presentation Handout

    • Quiz

    • Survey