How to Prepare Your Child with Autism for the New School Year

Back-to-school season isn’t just about backpacks and supplies, it’s an emotional transition, especially for children with autism. At ABLE (Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences), we understand that emotional readiness is just as important as academic preparedness, and our ABA therapy services in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater are designed to support both.

Whether your child is entering a new grade, school, or classroom, here’s how to emotionally prepare them for success and confidence.

1. Talk About Feelings, Even the Hard Ones

Instead of focusing only on what’s “exciting” about school, give your child space to express any worries, fears, or resistance. ABA therapy helps children label and process emotions in a safe way, and parents can continue this at home through open conversations and modeling.

ABA Tip: Use emotion cards or feeling thermometers to help kids identify how they feel about going back to school.

2. Revisit Last Year’s Wins

Remind your child of how much they grew last school year. Maybe they made a new friend, tried a new food at lunch, or learned to raise their hand in class. Celebrate progress to build confidence going into the new year.

ABA Tip: Reinforce past accomplishments to motivate future behaviors.

3. Create a “Get Ready” Story

A personalized social story about the first day of school can reduce anxiety and make the unknown feel familiar. Include photos of the school, teachers, and even the car or bus ride. Practice reading it together daily.

4. Use Role Play to Rebuild Confidence

ABA therapy often uses role play to develop new skills, and it’s something families can do at home, too. Practice morning routines, classroom etiquette, or even navigating tricky situations like recess or lunchtime.

5. Set Up a Calm-Down Plan

Help your child create a personal calm-down toolkit for school. This could include breathing exercises, a comfort object, or a few strategies they’ve learned during ABA sessions.

ABA Tip: Teaching self-regulation skills is key to long-term independence and success.

6. Build a “Support Circle”

Help your child identify trusted adults at school: a teacher, aide, counselor, or even the nurse. Talk about who they can go to if they need help. Then, do the same for yourself. Connect with the school team, therapists, and other parents.

ABA Therapy Makes Transitions Easier

At ABLE, our therapists specialize in helping children with autism navigate life transitions with confidence. Whether your child receives services at school, in the clinic, at home, or in the community, we tailor therapy goals to meet their real-world needs. From emotional regulation to social interactions and functional routines, ABA therapy offers practical, evidence-based support.

Serving Families Across Central Florida

ABLE proudly provides ABA therapy in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater, with a team of experienced and compassionate BCBAs and RBTs. We accept most insurance plans, and our Spanish-speaking staff ensures language is never a barrier to care.

Let’s make this school year one of connection, confidence, and growth.

Call us today at (863) 619-2809
Email intake@applied-behavioral.com
Visit us to learn more or schedule a free consultation

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