Five Back To School Tips For Kids In ABA Therapy

And just like that, summer is winding down. As schools start to send out information about the upcoming school year, the thought of supply lists and new routines on the horizon might start to feel a bit overwhelming, especially for families navigating ABA therapy. The start of a new school year is guaranteed to bring up challenges, but it also brings plenty of opportunities for growth. By preparing now, you can make the transition a bit easier on everyone. Keep reading for five practical tips to help support your child’s success beginning a new school year.

1. Practice Routines Ahead Of Time

It may feel like your family just got the hang of the summer routine when suddenly it’s time to switch things up again. The new environment and multitude of changes that come with a new school year can be tricky, so it can help to ease into the school year routine slowly instead of diving in on the first day of school. In the weeks leading up to school starting, start adjusting bedtimes and morning routines gradually, making small adjustments that lead up to the new schedule. Use a visual schedule or checklist to make it easier for your child to follow and get used to, and incorporate full practice runs in that include every step of the process, from waking up, getting ready and heading out the door.

2. Communication With Your School

ABA is most successful when the caregivers in your child’s life are part of the communication, and this includes your child’s teachers and the staff at their school. Think of them as your teammates and share helpful information with them, including effective behavioral support strategies, sensory preferences, current ABA goals, and so on. If your child has an IEP, ensure that it’s up to date and accessible to everyone who should be involved. For an extra bonus step, you can create a one page “about me” informational sheet about your child for their teacher that includes their communication styles, preferred reinforcement, your child’s strengths, etc.

3. Reinforce School Skills At Home

Consistency is crucial when it comes to ABA therapy. Progress is more likely when repetition and reinforcement are maintained through therapy sessions, school and home. If your child is working on certain skills at school - following directions, raising their hand, staying on task - look for small ways to reinforce those same behaviors at home. This can be kept low-pressure and playful, like role playing games, reward systems or short structured tasks integrated into daily routines.

4. Prepare For Transitions

Starting a new school year is one large transition that’s actually made up of dozens of small transitions. Your child likely has a new teacher in a new classroom with new peers. They will be learning new things, following a new set of rules and teaching methods, all while following a new schedule. Be sure to discuss these things with your child ahead of time and take advantage of opportunities to visit the school in advance, during open houses or even by requesting a more quiet solo visit. Take time to walk the halls, explore their new classroom and meet their new teacher. At home, prepare with social stories, role playing and visual aids to help ease anxiety and set expectations.

5. Celebrate The Wins

As always, we recommend celebrating every win, no matter how bit or small. Progress shows up differently for everyone, but any amount of progress deserves to be recognized. This may look like walking into the school with a brave face, saying hello to a new friend, or simply putting their backpack on their back without having a meltdown. Any step toward their goal is a big step and a sign of how hard they are working. By recognizing these moments and celebrating them, your child will gain confidence that will translate into momentum toward more growth.

You Don’t Have To Be In This Alone

Starting a brand new school year can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. With some preparation, clear communication and positive reinforcement, your child can build confidence, independence and meaningful skills that will help them not just in the classroom, but in daily life.

If you need help customizing ABA strategies for your child’s specific needs, contact Bloom Behavioral Healthcare LLC to see if we’re the right fit for your family. We would love to support you with practical, compassionate and personalized tools that will make this school year (and beyond) smoother and more successful for your family.