A Parent’s Guide to Transitioning Their Child from ABA Therapy to School

Starting school is a significant milestone for every child. For parents with children diagnosed with autism, this transition can be both exciting and challenging. If your child has been receiving ABA therapy, you may wonder what the transition will look like. You may also have many questions about the support available to them as they start their educational journey. 

Continue reading to learn more about your child’s transition from ABA therapy to a more formal school setting. 

Is my child ready to start school?

As a parent of a child with autism, you may be wondering, “Is my child ready for school?”  Readiness is not only about age but involves evaluating important developmental factors including: 

• Social Skills: Can your child interact with peers and adults appropriately? Skills such as sharing, taking turns, and following instructions are crucial for a positive school experience.
• Communication: Consider your child’s ability to express needs, understand others, and follow directions. Effective communication is foundational for learning and socializing.
• Independence: Can your child manage basic self-care tasks such as using the bathroom, eating independently, and handling transitions?
• Behavioral Stability: Stability in managing emotions and behaviors in a group setting is essential. Children should be able to adapt to the structured environment of a classroom.

To learn more about school readiness we recommend you check out our Parent’s Guide for Preschool Readiness and Kindergarten Readiness. 

How to Choose the Right School for Your Child

Finding the right school for a child with autism can be a challenging task. To find the right school for your child, you may want to start looking into school options for your child a year or more in advance.

When considering what the right school is, it is important to understand your child’s unique needs and the resources a school has available. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Special Education Services: Does the school provide opportunities for 1:1 support and what is their approach to inclusive education? Investigate the school’s special education program. Look for experienced staff, the availability of other therapies, and the school’s overall approach to supporting children with autism. 
• Class Size and Environment: Smaller class sizes can provide a more supportive and manageable setting for your child. Ensure the classroom environment is structured but flexible enough to accommodate individual needs. If your child will be in a special education classroom, investigate what age ranges make up the class and what sort of social opportunities they will have with peers outside the classroom.
• Staff Training: Inquire about the training and experience of teachers and aides in working with children with autism.
• Parental Involvement: A school that encourages and values parental involvement can help create a cohesive support system for your child.

If you’re beginning your search for the right school for your child, Beaming Health’s “Schools for autism: How to choose the right school” is a great resource. 

Your child’s BCBA can also be a great resource. They may be able to help guide you on things to look for in a school and how your child is progressing towards their goal of starting school. 

Transitioning from ABA to an IEP

Once your child is ready for school, it’s time to consider if they will qualify for an IEP. An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a plan that is developed by a child’s IEP team, with the support of parents, and outlines what supports and services will be provided to a child within the school day.

The IEP process begins with contacting the school district or school your child will attend to request an assessment. A child qualifies for an IEP if they:

1. have a disability that impacts their ability to access their curriculum; and,
2. require specific support in order to access the curriculum and make progress in their education.

If your child qualifies for an IEP, it is important to facilitate a smooth transition from ABA therapy to an IEP. Here are some tips on how to navigate this transition successfully:

• Early Planning and Communication: Start the transition process well before your child is going to start school. Communicate with your child’s therapists, school district representatives, and other relevant professionals. This ensures everyone is on the same page and allows ample time to address any concerns or needs.
• Collaborative IEP Meetings: Be an active member of your child’s IEP team. Bring insights from your child’s therapy sessions, including progress reports and data on behavioral interventions that have been effective. Also, bring insights into who your child is beyond therapy. You are your child’s biggest advocate and know them best. This information is invaluable in creating a tailored IEP that aligns with your child’s learning style and needs.
• Set Realistic Goals: Ensure that the IEP includes specific, measurable goals that reflect your child’s abilities and areas for growth. Goals should be realistic and achievable within the school environment. 
• Regular Monitoring and Adjustments: Once the IEP is in place, continuous monitoring and regular reviews are crucial. Attend follow-up meetings to discuss your child’s progress, and be proactive in requesting adjustments to the IEP if certain goals are not being met or if new challenges arise. Report cards and parent-teacher conferences can give you great insight into your child’s progress. Annual IEP meetings will give you an opportunity to request any adjustments to your child’s IEP.
• Additional Therapy Services: It’s important to remember that a school may not be able to meet all of your child’s needs in the way you envision. It may be helpful to consider additional supplemental therapies such as continuing ABA, speech therapy, or occupational therapy outside the school. 
• Parental Involvement: Stay involved in your child’s education by maintaining open lines of communication with teachers and school staff. Your ongoing involvement and advocacy play a significant role in ensuring the IEP is implemented effectively and your child continues to progress.

IEPs can be a complex topic. For more information about IEPs here are some great resources: 

• IEP and special education terms
• What’s an IEP? IEP resources for parents
• IEP roadmap: How kids get special education
• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): What should be in an IEP?
• Special Education Timelines
• What is and isn’t covered under FAPE

Conclusion

Choosing the right school for your child is an important and challenging task, there are many things to consider, such as:

• what supports does your local school district provide?
• where will your child’s skills be when they enter school?
• and, what is manageable for you as a family?

With these considerations in mind, it may be a good idea to start talking to your child’s BCBA and the rest of their care team about your child’s progress. They will be able to provide insights and recommendations related to your child’s current treatment plan and skill development.

As your child transitions into school and throughout their educational journey, be sure to stay involved. Actively maintain open lines of communication with teachers and school staff. Your ongoing involvement and advocacy can play a significant role in ensuring your child continues to progress.