School Starts Today! – Helping Kids with Autism Thrive During the First Week Back to School

The first day of school is here!

For children with autism, this time can bring excitement, curiosity, and sometimes a little anxiety.

At ABLE (Applied Behavioral Learning Experiences), we know that the first week sets the tone for the rest of the school year. That’s why our ABA therapy programs in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater focus on strategies that help children adjust successfully in real-world environments,  including the classroom.

Whether your child is starting school for the very first time or returning after summer break, these tips can help make the transition smoother in the upcoming days.

1. Keep Routines Consistent at Home

After the first-day excitement, it’s important to maintain predictable wake-up, mealtime, and bedtime routines. Consistency helps children feel secure and reduces stress as they adapt to new school expectations.

ABA Tip: Reinforcing structure at home supports behavior regulation at school.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement for Early Wins

Celebrate small successes like:  getting ready on time, trying a new activity, or making a new friend. Positive reinforcement motivates children and builds confidence for the rest of the school year.

3. Communicate Daily with Teachers

The first week is an adjustment period for everyone. Touch base with your child’s teacher to learn what’s going well and where extra support might be needed. Open communication helps create a unified approach between home, school, and therapy.

4. Practice After-School Decompression

School days can be sensory and socially overwhelming. Schedule calm, quiet time after school for your child to recharge. This could be listening to music, playing with a favorite toy, or enjoying a sensory activity.

5. Watch for Signs of Overwhelm

If your child is showing more meltdowns, fatigue, or withdrawal, they might need adjustments to their schedule or support strategies. ABA therapists can work on coping skills and transitions to help ease these challenges.

6. Keep Social Skills Goals in Mind

The first week is a great time to encourage skills like turn-taking, making requests, and joining group activities; skills often practiced in ABA sessions. Reinforce these at home to help them stick.

Supporting Transitions Through ABA Therapy

At ABLE, we believe every school day is an opportunity for growth. Our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) collaborate with families and schools to help children with autism build independence, confidence, and meaningful social connections.

With clinics in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and Clearwater, we offer therapy in home, school, clinic, and community settings. We also have a Spanish-speaking team and accept most major insurance plans.

Call us at (863) 619-2809 to learn how we can help your child thrive this school year.