Published by Breakthrough ABA 

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Starting ABA therapy is a major milestone—and like any new experience, it often comes with questions, excitement, and some understandable nerves. One of the most common concerns we hear from parents is: 
“How do I prepare my child for their first ABA session?” 

At Breakthrough ABA, we serve families, and we know that preparation makes all the difference. With the right steps, you can help your child feel calm, confident, and ready for this important new journey. 

💬 Talk About It in a Way Your Child Understands 

Your child doesn’t need a clinical explanation of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Instead, use words and tone that feel friendly and familiar. 

You might say: 

• “You’re going to meet a new friend who will play games and help you learn new things.” 

• “At your new place, you’ll get to play with toys and learn how to ask for what you want.” 

Even if your child has limited verbal comprehension, your positive energy and calm reassurance will help them feel safe. This is especially important for children receiving ABA therapy  or starting in a new center environment. 

📸 Preview the Environment (Clinic or Home) 

If your child is starting center-based ABA therapy, ask your provider for: 

• A short pre-visit or walk-through 

• Photos of therapy rooms, play spaces, or staff 

Show these at home and say things like: 

• “Here’s where you’ll play with blocks!” 

• “This is where your new helper will meet you.” 

For children receiving in-home ABA therapy, create a welcoming therapy space: 

• Choose a quiet, low-distraction area 

• Add favorite toys or comfy cushions 

• Let your child help set it up, so they feel a sense of ownership 

🧸 Bring Comfort Items from Home 

First sessions can be overwhelming. Bring along something familiar—like: 

• A favorite toy or stuffed animal 

• A small blanket or sensory item 

• Noise-canceling headphones (if your child is sound-sensitive) 

• A favorite book or fidget toy 

Snacks and drinks (if allowed) can also help children feel comfortable and focused. 

Let your BCBA or RBT know which items help your child self-regulate or stay motivated. This is part of the tailored care approach we use at Breakthrough ABA across all our Greater Houston locations. 

⏰ Ease Into a New Routine 

If therapy will occur during times your child typically naps, eats, or watches TV, consider adjusting your schedule gradually in the days before the first session. 

Tips: 

• Shift snack or screen time by 15–30 minutes each day 

• Try introducing more structured play during the therapy hour 

• Stick to a predictable daily schedule to reduce surprises 

This helps reduce resistance and sets up the first ABA session for success. 

🤝 Share What You Know with the Therapy Team 

Your child’s first session will go more smoothly if the therapy team knows: 

• What your child loves (e.g., bubbles, trucks, songs, certain snacks) 

• Triggers or sensory sensitivities 

• Preferred reinforcers 

• Words or signs your child already uses 

At Breakthrough ABA, we use this input to individualize therapy from day one. That’s how we deliver individualized ABA care that adapts to your child—not the other way around 

👋 Keep Goodbyes Short, Calm, and Positive 

If you’re dropping your child off or stepping out of the therapy space: 

• Stay calm and confident 

• Keep it brief and reassuring 

• Avoid emotional goodbyes (they can increase anxiety) 

Try saying: 

• “Have fun! I’ll be back soon.” 

• “You’re going to have a great time with [therapist’s name].” 

Children take cues from their caregivers. Your confidence helps them feel secure. 

🎉 Celebrate the First Session—No Matter What Happens 

The first day might not go perfectly—and that’s okay. The goal is building trust and starting the relationship. Celebrate the effort: 

• “You were so brave today!” 

• “You did a great job trying something new.” 

You can also reward your child with: 

• A favorite activity 

• A special snack 

• Extra play or cuddle time 

When children associate ABA with positive feelings, they’re more likely to engage and thrive. 

🌟 Final Thoughts: Every Child Starts Somewhere 

The first ABA session is a beginning—not a test. It’s about introducing your child to a supportive, structured environment where they’ll grow, learn, and succeed over time. 

At Breakthrough ABA, we provide personalized ABA therapy and our team meets your child with patience, positivity, and professional insight—making sure you feel supported every step of the way. 

📍 Serving Families Across Greater Houston: 

• Cypress, TX 

• Katy, TX 

• Spring, TX 

• Sugar Land, TX 

• The Woodlands, TX 

• Conroe, TX 

• Montgomery, TX 

• Memorial Houston 

• Energy Corridor 

• Missouri City, TX 

Wherever you are, we’re here to help your child feel confident and ready for success. 

📞 Ready to Get Started? 

Contact Breakthrough ABA today for: 
✅ A personalized parent onboarding plan 
✅ Expert BCBAs and RBTs who truly care 
✅ In-home and center-based ABA therapy across Houston 

Let’s take this important first step—together.