Published by Breakthrough ABA 

When your child with autism is entering the public school system, one of the most important steps you’ll encounter is the Individualized Education Program (IEP). While essential for ensuring your child receives the right support, the IEP process can feel overwhelming—especially for families new to special education. 

At Breakthrough ABA, we work with families across the Greater Houston area, including Spring, Sugar Land, and Cypress, to help them advocate for their children and bridge the gap between school services and ABA therapy goals. 

Here’s what you need to know to confidently navigate the IEP process. 

What Is an IEP? 🧾 

An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a legal document developed by a school team to outline the special education services a child with a disability will receive. It includes: 

• Your child’s current levels of academic and functional performance 

• Measurable goals 

• Special education and related services (like speech or occupational therapy) 

• Accommodations and modifications 

• How progress will be measured 

For children receiving ABA therapy, the IEP is a key opportunity to align school-based services with home-based goals. 

Tip #1: Know Your Rights 📚 

You are your child’s strongest advocate. Federal laws like the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) ensure that your child has the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. 

That means you have the right to: 

• Participate in all IEP meetings 

• Request evaluations or additional services 

• Review all documents in advance 

• Bring support professionals, including your child’s BCBA 

• Disagree with parts of the plan and request mediation or due process 

Understanding these rights helps you advocate effectively. 

Tip #2: Collaborate with Your ABA Team 🧠 

Your ABA provider knows your child’s learning style, behaviors, and goals. Before an IEP meeting, schedule time with your child’s Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to: 

• Review IEP goals for alignment with ABA goals 

• Share data that shows progress or areas of concern 

• Discuss strategies that work well for your child 

With your permission, your ABA team may also attend the IEP meeting or provide a written report. 

Tip #3: Bring Documentation 📊 

Data is power. When advocating for services, come prepared with: 

• ABA progress reports 

• Behavior data summaries 

• Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) 

• Notes from your child’s BCBA or therapists 

• A list of concerns and suggested accommodations 

Documentation helps the IEP team make data-informed decisions and shows that your requests are grounded in evidence. 

Tip #4: Focus on Measurable, Functional Goals 🎯 

IEP goals should be: 

• Specific: Clear and detailed 

• Measurable: Able to be tracked with data 

• Achievable: Realistic based on current performance 

• Relevant: Tied to educational access and progress 

• Time-bound: Includes expected timelines for achievement 

Example: Instead of “improve behavior,” a measurable goal might be “During a 10-minute group activity, the student will remain seated with no more than 2 prompts on 4 out of 5 days.” 

Your ABA team can help you identify and word these goals. 

Tip #5: Advocate for Behavior Supports 🧩 

If your child exhibits behaviors that impact learning, request a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) through the school. 

These tools help: 

• Identify the reason behind behaviors 

• Implement consistent strategies across settings 

• Reduce disruptions and increase classroom participation 

ABA-based strategies can inform effective BIPs that the school team can apply consistently. 

Tip #6: Ask About Accommodations and Modifications 🛠️ 

Your child may benefit from supports like: 

• Extra time on assignments 

• Breaks or sensory tools 

• Visual schedules or prompts 

• Modified instruction 

The IEP team can include accommodations that reflect your child’s ABA learning strategies. Share what works during ABA sessions! 

Tip #7: Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up 💬 

It’s okay to: 

• Ask questions 

• Request clarification 

• Disagree respectfully 

• Take time to review the IEP before signing 

You can also request a follow-up meeting at any time. Your voice matters. 

Final Thoughts: Teamwork Makes the IEP Work 🤝 

Navigating the IEP process is a team effort. With input from you, your child’s ABA therapist, and school staff, an IEP can become a powerful roadmap for your child’s growth. 

At Breakthrough ABA, we’re proud to support Houston-area families through every step of the journey—from home-based ABA therapy to advocating in the classroom. Let us help you turn IEP meetings into moments of progress and empowerment.