Success Story: How ABA Therapy Helped Allan Overcome Nail Cutting Challenges

For many children with autism, daily self-care routines can feel overwhelming.

Something as simple as cutting nails may cause stress, fear, or avoidance. This was the case for Allan (name changed to protect privacy), who struggled with nail cutting for years. BUT, through the use of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, Allan’s story became one of progress, confidence, and independence.

The Challenge

Each time Allan’s parents tried to trim his nails, he became anxious and pulled away. The sensation of the clippers, the sound they made, and the unfamiliar process were difficult for him to tolerate, so he will throw tantrums, cry, and scream. 

This often resulted in skipped nail trims, which added stress for both Allan and his family, since his nails would get so long that he would unintentionally hurt himself and others. 

ABA Techniques in Action

Luckily, Allan Family came to ABLE, and our team of BCBAs and RBTs  worked closely with Allan and his family to design a personalized plan that targeted this skill.

Some of the key strategies we used included:

• Desensitization: We began by gradually introducing Allan to the nail clippers without cutting, allowing him to simply see and hold them. So he could get familiar with it. 
• Task Analysis: The process of nail cutting was broken down into small, manageable steps, such as sitting calmly, touching the clippers to his hand, and clipping just one nail at a time.
• Positive Reinforcement: Each successful step was followed by praise, tokens, or small rewards to help Allan feel motivated and proud. Since Allan loves skittles and his favorite color was red, our therapist decided to use go with red skittles as a reward. 
• Modeling and Practice: His therapist demonstrated the process first, using a doll or her own hands, and then encouraged Allan to participate at his own pace. She even let Allan cut her nails! 
• Consistency Across Settings: Parents were coached to use the same strategies at home so Allan could generalize his new skills outside of sessions.

The Outcome

Through patience, consistency, and evidence-based ABA strategies, Allan began to tolerate and eventually participate in nail cutting.

Today, he can complete nail trims with minimal support and shows a sense of pride in accomplishing this once-difficult task. His progress is a wonderful reminder of how small daily victories build toward greater independence.

Helping Families Across Central Florida

At ABLE (Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences), we use the same proven techniques that helped Allan to support other children in developing important life skills. From self-care to communication and social interaction, ABA therapy empowers children with autism to grow with confidence.

We proudly provide ABA therapy in Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, and Lakeland, with services available in the home, school, clinic, and community. Our team of compassionate professionals is here to support your child’s journey every step of the way.

We currently have availability in Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater and are welcoming new clients.

Call us at (863) 619-2809 or fill out the intake form in the Get Starting page to begin your child’s journey of  success. 

Together, we build skills, confidence, and brighter futures for children with autism.