How to Prepare Your Child for Their First ABA Session

Starting Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a big step for both children and their families. Whether your child has just received a diagnosis or you’re beginning this journey to build essential life skills, it’s normal to feel a mix of hope and uncertainty. At StarRise ABA Therapy, we understand that the first session can bring questions like “What should I expect?” or “How do I help my child feel comfortable?” With thoughtful preparation and support, the first session can become a positive experience that sets the tone for meaningful progress ahead.

Talk About What’s Coming, in Simple, Positive Terms

Children often do best when they know what to expect. A few days before the first session, gently explain that someone new, a therapist, is coming to play and help them learn new things. Keep your tone calm and reassuring, focusing on what will feel familiar:

• “Your therapist will come to our house to play and help you learn fun things.”
• “You’ll get to use your toys and show them what you like.”

Avoid overwhelming details or framing therapy as something corrective (“they’ll teach you how to behave”). Instead, emphasize that the therapist is there to help and have fun together.

Set Up the Space for Comfort and Focus

If sessions will happen at home, prepare a calm, familiar area where your child can focus without distractions.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space with minimal background noise.
• Keep a few favorite toys or comfort items nearby for smooth transitions.
• Avoid screens or clutter that can make it harder to engage.

At StarRise, our in-home sessions are designed to blend seamlessly into your family’s environment—where your child already feels safe and secure

Build Familiarity Before Day One

If your provider offers an introductory call or pre-session visit, take advantage of it. Children often feel more comfortable when they’ve seen the therapist’s face or voice beforehand.

• Show your child a photo of their therapist (if available).
• Mention their name in casual conversation: “Ms. Taylor will come play tomorrow.”
• Keep routines consistent on the day of the session, familiar meals, nap times, and play breaks can help maintain calm.

A smooth start is about connection, not compliance. The therapist’s first goal is to build trust and make your child feel seen, not to start formal instruction immediately.

Share Key Insights With the Therapist

Parents know their child best. Before the session, share helpful details that can guide the therapist:

• Your child’s favorite toys, songs, or activities
• Triggers that may cause discomfort (certain sounds, transitions, etc.)
• Words or gestures your child uses to communicate needs

This collaboration helps the therapist tailor strategies right from the start, ensuring the session feels personal and compassionate

Manage Expectations: Progress Starts Small

ABA therapy is built on consistency and small, measurable steps. The first few sessions are primarily about assessment, observation, and relationship-building, not instant results. You might notice your therapist spending time:

• Playing with your child to learn what motivates them
• Taking notes on behavior patterns
• Gently introducing reinforcement strategies (like praise or small rewards)

It’s all part of laying a strong foundation for growth. Trust that progress will unfold gradually as your child feels more comfortable and understood.

Stay Nearby but Give Space

Especially in early sessions, your presence can be grounding. However, therapists may sometimes encourage partial separation so your child can begin forming independence. Follow the therapist’s lead, they’ll guide you on when it’s helpful to stay involved or observe quietly. As therapy progresses, parent participation often becomes structured through coaching or feedback sessions, helping you carry over strategies into daily life, an approach central to StarRise’s family-focused model

Focus on Emotional Readiness, Not Perfection

If your child feels anxious or resists new routines, that’s okay. Transitions can be hard, especially for children who thrive on predictability. Comfort and reassurance matter more than performance.

• Use gentle encouragement and celebrate small efforts.
• Keep after-session time calm and positive, perhaps a favorite snack or activity.
• Avoid pressuring your child to “do well.”

Therapy works best when your child feels emotionally safe and supported, not rushed.

Making the First Step Feel Easier

Preparing for your child’s first ABA session isn’t about getting everything “right”, it’s about setting a tone of warmth, trust, and collaboration. With open communication, a comfortable environment, and realistic expectations, you’re helping your child take the first step toward new skills and greater independence. At StarRise ABA Therapy, we believe progress begins at home, with empathy, patience, and care that meets each child exactly where they are.