Starting ABA therapy marks a meaningful moment in your family’s journey. You’ve taken an important step toward supporting your child’s growth and development. Like any new beginning, it’s natural to have questions about what the first session will look like and how to prepare.
This guide walks you through everything you can expect during your child’s first ABA therapy session. You’ll learn practical ways to prepare, understand what happens during the session, and discover how to support your child through this new experience.
Understanding What Makes ABA Therapy Special
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a research-based approach that helps children develop communication skills, build independence, and learn important life skills. At The Learning Tree ABA, we use ABA therapy to create personalized plans that meet your child exactly where they are.
What makes ABA therapy different is its individualized approach. Your child’s Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs a treatment plan based on your child’s unique strengths, interests, and goals. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, therapy adapts to your child’s learning style and pace.
The foundation of ABA therapy is positive reinforcement. When your child demonstrates a desired behavior or learns a new skill, they receive immediate praise, rewards, or access to preferred activities. This positive approach helps children feel motivated and confident as they learn.
Preparing for the First Session: Simple Steps That Make a Difference
Preparation can help both you and your child feel more comfortable when starting therapy. These practical steps create a foundation for success.
Talk to Your Child About What’s Coming
Use simple, positive language to explain that they’ll be meeting someone new who wants to play and learn with them. You might say something like, “Tomorrow we’re going to meet someone who helps kids learn new games and activities. They’re really friendly and you’ll get to play together.”
Focus on the enjoyable aspects. Let your child know they’ll be doing activities they enjoy and learning things that will help them. Keep the conversation light and encouraging rather than making it feel like a big, serious event.
Gather Comfort Items Your Child Loves
Pack a small bag with items that help your child feel secure. This might include:
- A favorite toy or stuffed animal
- A preferred snack or drink
- Any sensory items they find calming (fidget toys, blankets, etc.)
- Items that connect to their special interests
These familiar objects can provide comfort in a new environment and help your child feel more at ease.
Create a Visual Schedule
Many children benefit from knowing what to expect. You can create a simple visual schedule showing the steps of your day, including the therapy session. Use pictures or simple drawings to show:
- Getting ready to leave home
- Traveling to the session
- Meeting the therapist
- Playing and learning
- Going back home
This visual roadmap helps reduce anxiety about the unknown and gives your child a sense of control.
Set Up Your Home for In-Home ABA Therapy
If your child will receive therapy at home, prepare a dedicated space before the first session. Choose a quiet area with good lighting and minimal distractions. This doesn’t need to be elaborate—just a comfortable spot where your child can focus.
Have some of your child’s favorite toys and learning materials easily accessible. Your therapist will also bring materials, but having familiar items nearby helps your child feel comfortable in their therapy space.
What Happens During the First Session
The first ABA therapy session looks different from future sessions because it focuses primarily on connection and getting to know your child.
Building Rapport Comes First
Your child’s therapist will spend significant time simply playing with your child and building a positive relationship. This isn’t wasted time—it’s one of the most important parts of starting therapy successfully.
The therapist will engage in activities your child enjoys. They might play with favorite toys, sing songs, or participate in whatever interests your child most. Through this play, the therapist learns about your child’s preferences, communication style, and how they interact with the world.
This rapport-building process helps your child associate their therapist with fun, positive experiences. When children feel comfortable and connected with their therapist, they’re more willing to participate in learning activities and try new things.
Initial Observation and Assessment
While playing and interacting with your child, the therapist carefully observes many things:
- What activities capture your child’s attention
- How your child communicates their wants and needs
- Which toys or activities they prefer
- How they respond to different types of interaction
- Their current skill levels in various areas
This observation provides valuable information that shapes your child’s individualized treatment plan. The therapist may take notes or collect data to document these observations.
Parent Conversation and Collaboration
Your input as a parent is incredibly valuable. During the first session, expect the therapist to ask questions about your child’s daily routines, preferences, challenges, and strengths. They’ll want to know:
- What are your biggest concerns and hopes for your child?
- What does a typical day look like in your home?
- What strategies have worked well for your child in the past?
- Are there specific skills you’d like your child to develop?
- What are your child’s favorite activities and motivators?
This collaborative conversation ensures the therapy plan addresses your family’s real-life needs and priorities. The more openly you can share, the better the therapist can support your child.
Introducing Simple Activities
Depending on how comfortable your child feels, the therapist may introduce some simple, play-based activities. These aren’t formal teaching sessions yet—they’re gentle ways to see how your child responds to different types of activities.
The therapist might try activities like:
- Simple matching games
- Building with blocks
- Looking at picture books together
- Following simple instructions during play
- Requesting preferred items or activities
Everything remains fun and low-pressure. If your child needs more time to warm up, that’s completely fine. The goal is positive interaction, not pushing your child beyond their comfort zone.
Your Role as a Parent During the Session
Parents often wonder how involved they should be during therapy sessions. Your role is important, and it may vary depending on what works best for your child.
Being Present and Available
For the first session especially, your presence nearby can help your child feel secure. Some children do best when parents remain in the room, while others focus better when parents are nearby but not directly visible.
Your therapist will discuss what arrangement works best for your child. They’ll guide you based on their observations and your knowledge of your child’s needs.
Sharing Your Observations
You know your child better than anyone. If you notice something during the session—perhaps your child seems overwhelmed, or they’re particularly engaged by a certain activity—share that information with the therapist.
Your observations help the therapist understand your child more quickly and adjust their approach in real-time.
Asking Questions
This is your opportunity to ask anything you’re wondering about. Questions might include:
- How will you measure my child’s progress?
- What will future sessions look like?
- How can I support my child’s learning at home?
- What should I do if my child resists coming to therapy?
- How often will we communicate about my child’s progress?
At The Learning Tree ABA, we believe in open, ongoing communication. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s care.
After the First Session: What Comes Next
The first session is just the beginning of your child’s therapy journey. Here’s what to expect as you move forward.
Reviewing the Experience Together
After the session, talk with your child about their experience in a positive way. You might say, “That was fun playing with [therapist’s name]! What did you like best?” This helps reinforce positive feelings about therapy.
Even if the session had challenging moments, focus on what went well. You might acknowledge, “That was something new, and new things can feel a little tricky. You did a great job trying!”
Discussing the Treatment Plan
Your child’s BCBA will develop or refine the treatment plan based on the initial session and assessment. They’ll share this plan with you, explaining:
- Specific goals they’ll work toward
- Strategies they’ll use to teach new skills
- How they’ll measure progress
- The recommended frequency and duration of sessions
At The Learning Tree ABA, we ensure you understand every aspect of your child’s treatment plan. We want you to feel confident in the approach we’re taking.
Establishing a Regular Schedule
Consistency helps children thrive in ABA therapy. Work with your therapy team to establish a regular schedule that fits your family’s routines. When children know what to expect and when to expect it, they often adapt more easily to therapy.
Consider your family’s natural rhythms when scheduling. Some children do better with morning sessions when they’re fresh, while others are more receptive in the afternoon.
Beginning Parent Training
Parent training is a vital component of ABA therapy. The Learning Tree ABA provides regular parent training sessions (typically 2-4 times monthly) where you’ll learn:
- The principles behind the strategies your child is learning
- How to use positive reinforcement effectively at home
- Ways to practice skills outside of therapy sessions
- Techniques for managing challenging behaviors
- How to support your child’s progress in everyday situations
This training helps ensure your child’s learning extends beyond therapy sessions into all areas of life.
Common Questions Parents Have About First Sessions
What if my child doesn’t want to participate?
It’s completely normal for children to feel hesitant during their first session. Skilled therapists are experienced in working with reluctant children and will adjust their approach accordingly.
They might start by simply being present while your child plays independently, gradually moving closer and offering items or activities without expecting interaction. The pace always follows your child’s comfort level.
How long does the first session last?
First sessions typically last between one to two hours, though this can vary. Some children need shorter initial sessions to avoid overwhelm, while others do well with a full session length.
Your therapist will discuss timing with you and adjust based on your child’s responses during the session.
Will my child be expected to “perform” or demonstrate skills?
Not at all. The first session is about connection, not evaluation. While the therapist is observing and learning about your child, there’s no pressure on your child to demonstrate specific skills or behaviors.
Everything happens through natural play and interaction. The goal is building a positive foundation, not testing your child.
What if my child has challenging behaviors during the session?
Challenging behaviors are part of why many families seek ABA therapy support. If your child displays challenging behaviors during the first session, the therapist will respond calmly and professionally.
They’ll use this as a learning opportunity—both to understand what triggers or maintains these behaviors and to begin developing strategies to address them. There’s no judgment, only compassionate problem-solving.
How quickly will I see progress?
Every child’s timeline is different. Some families notice small changes within the first few weeks, while more significant progress typically unfolds over months.
What matters most is consistent participation and collaboration between the therapy team and your family. The Learning Tree ABA tracks data carefully to ensure your child is making meaningful progress toward their goals.
Building a Foundation for Success
The first ABA therapy session sets the tone for your child’s entire therapy experience. While it may feel new and perhaps a bit overwhelming, remember that this is a journey you don’t have to walk alone.
At The Learning Tree ABA, we’re committed to supporting your entire family through this process. From that very first session through every milestone your child reaches, we’re here to guide, encourage, and celebrate with you.
Your child is entering an environment designed specifically to help them grow, learn, and develop the skills they need to navigate their world with confidence. The therapists working with your child see beyond challenges to recognize the unique potential in every child.
Starting therapy is a brave and loving step. Trust the process, maintain open communication with your therapy team, and celebrate the small victories along the way. With consistency, support, and the right approach, you’ll be amazed at what your child can accomplish.
Ready to take the next step? Contact The Learning Tree ABA today to schedule your no-obligation consultation. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and help your family begin this meaningful journey.
