Transitioning from ABA Services to School: A Guide for Parents from Sycamore Services ABA Opportunity Center

Planning for the future is an important task for any parent regarding their child. For children diagnosed with autism that are receiving ABA therapy services at Sycamore Services ABA Opportunity Center, this plan can often be challenging, confusing, and sometimes scary. At Sycamore Services ABA Opportunity Center, our BCBAs and your child’s clinical team will be there to support you and assist with planning for your child’s future. We believe that the discussion about discharge from ABA services should start from day one, as the goal is to help your child acquire the skills needed to be successful in a less-restrictive setting.

For many of our clients, this transition from ABA services will be into an educational setting such as a public or private school. While all children and schools are different, when it comes to the transition from a clinical setting to an educational setting, there are several factors that will help to maximize success.

Have a transition plan. Work with your child’s BCBA to identify an appropriate setting and get familiar with the school district you are in. The BCBA should develop individualized discharge goals and a transition plan. This plan may be adapted once discussions begin with the school depending on the needs of the child and/or staff.

Proactive communication is key. You and your child’s BCBA should begin discussions with the school ideally 9–12 months in advance. This ensures plenty of time for observations, evaluations to be scheduled, development of support plans, and an appropriate placement to be determined.

Teamwork and collaboration are essential. Remember to advocate for your child’s needs and be open to ideas and suggestions from the clinical and educational professionals. Everyone should work together to ensure the best interest and success of the child.

Be patient and flexible. While your child’s clinical team and educators will do their best to ensure a smooth transition, things don’t always go as planned. Timelines and schedules may sometimes shift, be moved forward, or delayed depending on the success of the child.

You can learn more about our ABA Opporetunity Center and how we can help your family HERE!