As children with autism prepare for school, the journey can be both exciting and challenging. At Helping Hands Family, we use ABA therapy to develop enriched learning, social confidence, and familiarity with the changes to facilitate a smooth transition to school. Our child-led ABA Therapy in Pittsburgh and the rest of our clinics uses individualized behavior therapy that empowers children through sessions that focus on:
- Socialization
- Communication
- Skill generalization
We encourage kids to apply their new skills in various settings. Here are specific ways ABA therapy can help make the transition into a new program or school setting easier for your child!
Preparing Children for Social Success
Social skills are essential in any classroom. ABA therapy uses structured 1:1 sessions to teach children how to express their ideas and impactful group activities to practice group participation. Through these exercises children learn:
- Introducing themselves
- Following directions
- Socializing with others
For example, we may use a game like Simon Says to practice following directions. Asking the group to “stand up if you’re wearing a blue or white shirt” is an effective way to simulate classroom interactions while establishing listening skills.
Developing Individualized School Readiness Plans for Each Child
Fostering growth for a smooth transition to school looks different for each child. Our clinicians assess each child’s skills and needs to provide a balanced learning framework that prepares children for the diverse experiences they will encounter in the classroom. For one child, the plan may focus more on communication and behavior skills related to group activities, while another child may have lessons that revolve around practical skills like:
- Raising their hand
- Asking questions
- Following teacher directions
- Organizing school supplies.
Whether preparing for a traditional preschool or a specialized autism program, our personalized autism services in West Chester, PA align individual plans with proven ABA strategies that use:
- Positive reinforcement
- Play-based learning
- Shared group lessons
These strategies help solidify socialization, communication, and behavioral progression.
Generalizing Skills to Facilitate a Smoother Transition
Fortunately, many of the milestones commonly acquired in ABA therapy naturally carry over into the school environment. For example, skills such as independently using the bathroom or following multi-step directions can be learned in the clinic and generalized for outside the clinic.
Other activities exclusive to the classroom setting can also be replicated in the behavior therapy setting such as:
- Fun group activities
- Sitting for reading times
- Organizing the daily calendar
- Marching in a single file line
By laying these fundamental stepping stones for children with autism, the classroom environment is more likely to feel familiar and fun from the start.
Coordinating With Parents, Teachers, Schools & Other Providers
As important as helping children apply their skills in the new school setting, our inclusive ABA therapy team promotes a seamless transition for families and educators. Through supportive education, relevant autism resources, and individualized education programs (IEPs), we establish a collaborative foundation where parents, teachers, and other providers are all equipped to provide a constructive learning environment.
If the school approves, our ABA providers can also provide 1:1 support. Our team can provide a strong foundation of familiarity while simultaneously helping teachers better understand each child’s unique needs.
To learn more about our caring approach to autism therapy and school readiness, contact Helping Hands Family today!
