Category: Blog

Find expert-level advice about raising kids with ASD. Read stories about living with autism and working in the ABA field.

What Is PBIS in Education? 

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

FEATURED POSTS

teacher practicing positive behavioral interventions with student
What Is PBIS in Education? 
October 21, 2025
teen struggling with mental health at school
Why Is Mental Health So Important for Students? 
October 17, 2025
dyslexic child working with father
Dyslexia Awareness Month: Understanding, Support, and the Power of Awareness 
October 17, 2025
child with sensory processing disorder wearing headphones
Sensory Processing Month: Why Awareness Matters in October and Beyond 
October 16, 2025

A Clear Look at How Positive Behavior Support Works in Schools 

Walk into a school that uses Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, or PBIS, and you can feel the difference. The hallways are calm. Students know what is expected. Teachers spend more time teaching and less time managing behavior. 

PBIS is a proactive approach that helps schools teach and encourage positive behavior instead of reacting to problems. It builds consistency and helps every student feel safe and supported. The goal is simple: Make schools better places to learn. 

Teaching Positive Behavior at School 

PBIS is not a one-time program. It is a way of thinking about how to help students succeed. Instead of focusing on punishment, teachers show students what to do right, using modeling, practice, and feedback. 

Schools that use this approach define a few clear expectations, such as being respectful, responsible, and safe. Teachers and staff show what those behaviors look like in everyday settings. They recognize positive actions, help students learn from mistakes, and create predictable systems so everyone knows what to expect. 

Over time, this shared language builds trust. Students understand how to meet expectations, and adults respond in steady, fair ways. That consistency helps students feel secure and ready to learn. 

Creating Schoolwide Consistency and Support 

Schools often begin by forming a team that includes teachers, administrators, counselors, and family members. Together, they set expectations, create lessons, and decide how to recognize progress. 

Students may learn about expectations during class lessons, assemblies, or through short activities that use real-life examples. Staff use the same reminders and language throughout the day. Many schools post visuals in classrooms, hallways, and cafeterias to make expectations easy to remember. 

Teams also review data, such as attendance and discipline reports, to see where students need more support. They adjust lessons or supervision as needed. Regular check-ins help staff stay consistent and aligned. 

When the system is part of daily life, everyone plays a role. Teachers greet students by name. Staff members reinforce routines during lunch. Counselors help students build social and coping skills. Every adult contributes to a calm, supportive environment. 

How Positive Behavior Support Improves Learning 

Schools that take this proactive approach often see fewer disruptions and discipline referrals. Students spend more time in class. Teachers spend more time teaching. The school day becomes more productive and less stressful for everyone. 

This approach also helps students build confidence and connections. When they know what to expect and receive steady encouragement, they are more likely to participate, take initiative, and form positive relationships. That sense of belonging supports both academic and social growth. 

For students with developmental differences, structured routines and clear expectations can make a meaningful difference. The focus on communication, consistency, and positive reinforcement reduces anxiety and helps students stay engaged. 

Building Supportive School Communities 

Across the country, schools are working to create welcoming, structured environments where students can thrive. Positive behavior support gives educators a practical way to prevent problems before they start. It replaces punishment with guidance and helps teachers build strong, caring connections with students. 

When families ask, “What is PBIS in education?” the answer is simple. It is a clear, compassionate approach to teaching the skills and behaviors students need to succeed in school and in life. 

At LEARN Academy, we partner with schools to build positive learning environments that help every student grow. Our educators and specialists work with teachers and districts to apply consistent, caring strategies that support both learning and behavior. 

Why Is Mental Health So Important for Students? 

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

Mental health has become one of the biggest topics in education today. Schools are reporting more students dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress than in previous years. A 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that nearly half of high school students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless. Teachers, counselors, and families say those concerns have not gone away. 

The reasons are layered. Academic pressure, social media, and the effects of the pandemic have all added to the challenges students carry. What once might have been considered a private issue is now understood as central to how well a student learns and participates in school. 

Defining Student Mental Health 

Mental health is not just the absence of a diagnosis. It shapes how students think, feel, and act every day. In schools, that means how they manage stress before a test, how they interact with peers, and how they see themselves as learners. 

Educators describe good mental health as the foundation for engagement. Students who feel balanced are more likely to raise their hands, join group projects, and keep trying when the work gets difficult. Poor mental health, on the other hand, can lead to lower motivation, concentration problems, or withdrawal from classmates. 

How Mental Health Affects Learning 

The link between mental health and academics is clear. Students who are having a hard time emotionally often fall behind. They may miss school, find it difficult to pay attention in class, or lose interest in assignments. Over time, these challenges can affect grades, attendance, and a student’s confidence in their ability to succeed. 

Educators also point to the way mental health affects classroom climate. When students feel supported, classrooms tend to be more engaged and collaborative. When students feel overwhelmed or isolated, it can affect the entire learning environment. 

The Role of Stigma 

Even with growing awareness, stigma continues to be a barrier. Many students avoid speaking up about stress or sadness because they fear being judged. Some worry that asking for help will make them look weak. 

Researchers and mental health advocates say this silence makes problems worse. Schools that create space for honest conversation through counseling programs, wellness initiatives, or even daily check-ins help students see mental health as a normal part of overall health. 

What Schools and Families Are Doing 

In response, many schools are adding resources to address mental health. Some have expanded access to counselors and social workers. Others have built lessons on stress management, resilience, and empathy into the school day. 

Families are playing a role, too. Parents are encouraged to pay attention to shifts in mood, sleep, or social behavior, and to partner with teachers when concerns arise. The goal is to make support available in both school and home settings. 

Why It Matters for the Future 

Experts say the skills students learn now will carry into adulthood. Knowing how to manage stress, ask for help, and support others can make a difference in college, careers, and relationships. For schools, investing in student mental health today is seen as an investment in the kind of adults those students will become. 

The conversation about mental health in schools shows no signs of fading. If anything, it is expanding. Educators and families alike are recognizing that student well-being is not separate from academics. It is at the center of it. 

Supporting Student Well-Being 

At LEARN Academy, we understand that mental health and learning go hand in hand. Our special educators, counselors, therapists, and school partners work together to support the whole child, helping students build resilience, confidence, and the skills to thrive in and out of the classroom. 

We adopt a safe and individualized approach to supporting each child’s emotional well-being as they develop the functional and interpersonal skills to lead a more engaging and fulfilling life. 

Discover LEARN Academy’s services to see how we help schools and families strengthen student well-being year-round. 

Dyslexia Awareness Month: Understanding, Support, and the Power of Awareness 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP Vice President of Related Services

Every October, communities across the country mark Dyslexia Awareness Month. For families and educators, it is a reminder that reading is not effortless for everyone. Learning differences require recognition, understanding, and support. 

What Dyslexia Means 

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences. It affects how the brain processes written and spoken language, making reading, spelling, and decoding words difficult. 

In children, early signs can include trouble learning the alphabet or connecting letters to sounds. In adults, it may show up as difficulty with complex reading or written expression. These challenges are not tied to intelligence or effort. They reflect differences in how the brain is wired for language. 

For parents and teachers, this knowledge matters. Recognizing dyslexia early and offering the right support can help students build confidence and skills that carry into every part of life. 

Why Awareness Matters 

Dyslexia Awareness Month began as a grassroots effort led by parents and educators who saw how children felt left behind without proper recognition. The goal was urgent. Bring the challenges of dyslexia into public view, push schools to improve instruction, and replace myths with facts. 

That mission continues. Awareness shifts the focus from frustration to possibility. It reminds schools to adopt proven approaches that give students with dyslexia the tools they need. It encourages communities to share resources and support families. And it empowers students to know they are not alone. 

Support and Resources 

Awareness has opened the door to more support. Families and educators still benefit from practical tools. Structured literacy approaches such as Orton-Gillingham have been shown to help children with dyslexia. Specialists can tailor strategies to each learner, helping break down words into patterns that finally make sense. 

Schools can help by offering small-group instruction, creating reading-friendly classrooms, and giving extra time on assignments. Families can connect with local and national organizations that share strategies and encouragement. Online networks and support groups also make a difference by connecting parents and providing advice. 

Technology adds another layer of support. Text-to-speech software and audiobooks let students access information without the barrier of print. These tools not only support learning but also help restore confidence. 

A Broader Conversation 

Dyslexia Awareness Month is not only about reading difficulties. It is also about recognizing strengths, building inclusive classrooms, and reminding families that help exists. With greater awareness, students with dyslexia can succeed in school and in life. Communities can also reduce the stigma that still surrounds learning differences. 

For parents, the month is a call to trust instincts and advocate for evaluations if a child needs help. For teachers, it is an invitation to learn strategies that open doors for all students. For everyone, it is a reminder that learning to read is not a simple milestone for every child. 

As October unfolds, Dyslexia Awareness Month offers more than awareness. It offers action. By seeking out resources, listening to families, and supporting inclusive practices, parents and educators can change the path for children with dyslexia not only this month but throughout the year. 

Helping Students with Dyslexia Thrive 

At LEARN Academy, we work alongside families and schools to provide the right support for students with dyslexia. Our special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, reading specialists, school psychologists, and occupational therapists all play a role in building stronger reading skills and more confident learners. 

Learn more about LEARN Academy’s services and how we partner with schools to support students with dyslexia year-round. 

Sensory Processing Month: Why Awareness Matters in October and Beyond 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP, Vice President of Related Services

October is Sensory Processing Month, a reminder that for millions of children and adults, the world can feel too loud, too bright, too scratchy, or sometimes too muted to fully connect with.  

The month is dedicated to raising awareness of sensory processing disorder, or SPD, and to encouraging families, educators, and communities to better understand how the brain interprets and sometimes misinterprets everyday sights, sounds, textures, and smells. 

Living in a World of Too Much or Too Little 

Sensory processing disorder describes what happens when the brain struggles to organize and respond to incoming information. For some people, the buzz of fluorescent lights is unbearable. For others, everyday textures such as a shirt tag or the seam of a sock make it nearly impossible to concentrate. Some may not notice sensations most people find intense, and they may seek out extra movement or noise to feel regulated. 

SPD often shows up in children on the autism spectrum. Research suggests that 70% to 90% of children with autism experience sensory processing challenges. SPD can also affect people of any age. Too often, sensory challenges are dismissed as quirks or simple preferences. In reality, they can shape a person’s ability to succeed at school, at work, and in daily life. 

How Awareness Month Took Shape 

The idea of dedicating a month to sensory processing began in the early 2000s. Parents and clinicians recognized that families were dealing with it in silence. The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation helped launch the initiative, and in 2015 it was formally recognized as Sensory Awareness Month. Since then, families and organizations have used October to share stories, educate schools, and push for better recognition in health and education systems. 

Adults with SPD describe what it feels like to live in a body that does not filter sights and sounds in the same way as most people. Clinicians highlight new tools and therapies. Educators ask how to make classrooms calmer and more inclusive. 

What Support Looks Like 

Awareness is only the first step. Real support often begins with simple changes, such as a quiet corner in a classroom, noise-canceling headphones at a busy event or soft lighting in a public space. Weighted blankets, fidget tools, and scheduled sensory breaks can help turn overwhelming environments into manageable ones. 

For families, small accommodations can mean big progress. A child may finally focus on reading. An adult may feel welcome at work instead of shut out by constant noise. For communities, these adjustments send a broader signal of belonging. 

The Work Ahead 

Sensory Processing Month is an opportunity to do more than post awareness graphics. It is a chance to listen to families, learn from autistic self-advocates, and create environments where sensory needs are recognized and respected. 

Diagnosis, treatment, and support systems for SPD remain uneven. Misconceptions still linger. But each October, the movement grows in schools, in therapy centers, and in households making small but meaningful shifts. 

Awareness months last 31 days. For those living with SPD, the challenges are ongoing. That is why the message of Sensory Processing Month must carry forward. Pay attention. Make space. Understand that for many people, the world feels different. That difference deserves recognition and respect. 

Supporting Students Every Day 

At LEARN Academy, we know that sensory needs show up in unique ways for every student. Our teams of speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and special educators partner with schools and families to create sensory-friendly classrooms and strategies that help students thrive. 

Explore LEARN Academy’s services to see how we support students with sensory processing challenges and how we can help your school build an environment where every learner belongs. 

5 Strategies to Help Diverse Learners Thrive This Fall 

Academically Reviewed By: Lara LaZear, M.S., CCC-SLP, Vice President of Related Services

As schools welcome students back this fall, administrators and educators face the ongoing challenge of supporting classrooms where learners’ needs are increasingly diverse. From students on the autism spectrum to those managing social-emotional and behavioral challenges, and from Title I learners requiring supplemental services to students in nonpublic placements to students with disabilities receiving special education supports, success depends on creating environments where all students can access learning. 

At LEARN Academy, we partner with districts nationwide to provide tailored special education services, academic and behavioral supports. Drawing from that experience, here are five strategies that can help districts set their diverse learners up for success this school year. 

1. Establish Predictable, Flexible Routines 

Predictability builds a sense of safety for students, particularly those with autism or other special needs that make transitions challenging. At the same time, flexibility ensures schools can adapt to individual needs. Districts can support their students by: 

  • Posting daily schedules in both visual and written formats to reduce uncertainty and ease transitions. 
  • Providing flexible structures, such as shorter work segments or choice-based activities, for students who need extra support. 
  • For Title I programs, maintain consistent schedules for supplemental instruction so students know when to expect support without missing critical classroom learning. 

2. Prioritize Social-Emotional and Behavioral Supports 

Students cannot fully access academics without emotional readiness. Embedding social-emotional learning (SEL) and positive behavior supports into the school day benefits all learners, especially those with behavioral challenges or a history of school avoidance. A few supportive options schools can implement include: 

  • Incorporating brief morning check-ins, mood meters, or digital surveys to help staff track student well-being. 
  • Using restorative practices and positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors. 
  • Providing staff training on evidence-based strategies, such as reinforcement systems and social narratives, to promote consistent practices across classrooms. 

3. Create Inclusive and Sensory-Supportive Environments 

The physical environment of a school can significantly influence learning. Minor adjustments often make a big difference, such as: 

  • Establishing calm spaces in classrooms where students can self-regulate without feeling singled out. 
  • Offering sensory supports such as noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, or alternative seating. 
  • Reducing visual clutter in classrooms to help students focus. 

4. Differentiate Instruction to Support Academic Access 

Diverse learners need scaffolds that make academic content more accessible. Effective differentiation supports both students with IEPs and Title I populations. Educators can support their students by: 

  • Previewing upcoming lessons or assignments to give students time to process material. 
  • Using graphic organizers, color coding, or chunking to simplify complex tasks. 
  • Encouraging peer-supported learning opportunities to build both academic and social skills. 

5. Leverage Partnerships to Expand Capacity 

Districts don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Partnering with experienced providers can expand a school’s capacity to serve diverse learners effectively. At LEARN Academy, we: 

  • Collaborate with schools to deliver Title I supplemental instruction, behavioral supports, special education services, and specialized academic interventions. 
  • Work alongside educators to align strategies across classrooms, Title I services, special education programs, and nonpublic settings. 
  • Build sustainable, tailored programs that benefit students, staff, and families. 

This fall, schools have an opportunity to set the tone for success by combining these five strategies—from strong routines and SEL supports to inclusive practices and expert partnerships. By implementing them, districts can help every learner thrive in general education, special education, Title I programs, and nonpublic settings. 

At LEARN Academy, we’re here to partner with schools to turn these strategies into real outcomes—meeting the unique needs of the whole student.  

Why Student Self-Determination Matters in Special Education 

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

Supporting students with special needs means more than helping them reach academic goals. It also means teaching them how to make choices, solve problems, and advocate for themselves. This is where student self-determination comes in. 

In education, “self-determination” is the term experts use to describe a student’s ability to understand their strengths, set goals, make decisions, and take steps to reach them. For children and teens with special needs, learning these skills can be life-changing. 

What Self-Determination Means 

At its core, self-determination means giving students a voice in their own learning. It goes beyond simple choices such as what snack to eat or what game to play. The goal is to help students build skills. Those can include: 

  • Setting goals 
  • Making choices 
  • Solving problems 
  • Speaking up for their needs 
  • Taking responsibility for their actions 

These skills help students grow more independence and prepare them for life beyond school. 

Why Self-Determination Matters in Special Education 

Research shows that students with strong self-determination skills do better in school and later in life. They are more likely to graduate, find jobs, and live independently. 

In special education, self-determination is often part of the individualized education program (IEP) process. At the start of each school year, teachers, parents, and students meet to set learning goals. When students play an active role in this process, they learn how to speak up for what they want and need. 

How Schools Can Build in Self-Determination 

Many schools now weave self-determination into their special education programs. Teachers and staff can support this principle in everyday ways. They can help students learn to: 

  • Make choices: Give students real options during lessons and activities 
  • Set goals: Guide students to create both short-term and long-term goals 
  • Solve problems: Work through everyday situations, such as asking for help or handling frustration 
  • Speak up: Encourage students to share their thoughts during IEP meetings 
  • Reflect: Help students review what worked, what didn’t, and what to try next 

These daily practices give students confidence and show them they have control over their own learning. 

How Parents Can Help 

Parents play a big role at home. Simple strategies include: 

  • Let kids choose: Give age-appropriate options, like what to wear or which chore to do first 
  • Set goals together: Involve the kids in family goals, such as planning a weekend activity 
  • Talk openly: Encourage conversations about feelings and needs 
  • Praise effort: Focus on effort and problem-solving, not just results 

Small daily choices build the foundation for bigger decisions later in life. 

A Path to Independence 

At its heart, student self-determination is a mindset. When schools and families encourage it, students with special needs learn that their voice matters. They gain tools to succeed in school and beyond. 

At LEARN Academy, we believe every student deserves that chance. Our team uses evidence-based strategies, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), to help children and teens build self-determination skills. These tools not only support learning but also prepare students for lifelong success. 

Want to learn more about how LEARN Academy can support your classroom or school community? Contact us today to explore our programs and resources. 

What is a Title I School? Understanding Funding, Eligibility, and Equitable Services 

Academically Reviewed By: Marybeth Jones, M.Ed., Vice President of Academic Services

Across the United States, millions of students rely on Title I programs, one of the main ways the federal government supports schools serving children from low-income families. These programs are designed to close academic gaps and provide extra help in reading, math, and other core subjects. 

People often hear the term “Title I school,” but what it means and how funding extends to private and nonpublic schools is less widely understood. 

Here’s a breakdown of what it is and how it works. 

What It Means to Be a Title I School 

Title I schools are public schools that receive federal dollars because they enroll a significant percentage of students from low-income households. The funding is used to provide academic support and help students meet state standards. 

There are two main models: 

  • Schoolwide Programs — In schools where at least 40% of students qualify as low-income, Title I money can support the entire school.  
  • Targeted Assistance Programs — In schools with lower percentages, funds go only to students most at risk of falling behind academically. 

The money often pays for reading specialists, math tutors, after-school programs, and family engagement initiatives. These are resources that schools could not otherwise afford. 

How Title I Funding Works 

Title I dollars begin at the federal level and flow through state education agencies. Then they are distributed to local school districts based on student poverty data.  

Public schools that qualify receive the money directly and design programs to meet their students’ needs. 

Extending Help Beyond Public Schools 

Title I also requires “equitable services” for eligible students who attend private or nonpublic schools. This ensures that children who attend private schools aren’t life behind. But there are key distinctions: 

  • Private schools do not receive Title I funds directly.  
  • Instead, the local public school district oversees the money and arranges services for eligible students. 
  • Services must be secular, neutral, and non-ideological.  
  • In many cases, districts partner with outside providers (such as our team) to deliver these services. 

How Equitable Services Support Students 

For students in private and nonpublic schools, equitable services often take the form of: 

  • Small group or one-on-one instruction in reading and math 
  • Supplemental tutoring focused on specific learning gaps 
  • Academic intervention programs aligned with grade-level standards 
  • Counseling programs aimed at addressing academic or social-emotional challenges. 
  • Professional development for teachers to strengthen classroom instruction 

These services make a measurable difference for students who may otherwise struggle without additional support, giving students access to the same kinds of interventions available in Title I public schools. 

Why Equitable Services Matter for Schools and Families 

For children who qualify, the support can be pivotal. They may receive one-on-one reading instruction, math help to close learning gaps, or counseling that addresses academic or social-emotional needs. Teachers may also benefit from professional development that strengthens classroom instruction. 

Without these services, many private and nonpublic school students from low-income families would not have the same opportunities as their peers in public schools. 

The principle is fairness. A child’s chance to succeed should not depend only on whether they attend a public or private school. Title I’s equitable services help reduce disparities and extend the reach of federal funding to students wherever they are enrolled. 

At LEARN It Academic Services, we partner with districts to provide these interventions and help students build skills and confidence. The goal is the same as in any Title I program: to give every child a stronger foundation for academic success. Reach out to our LEARN Academy team today to discuss equitable services or other tailored solutions for your district. 

What Is Classroom Management?

Academically Reviewed By: Daniel Campbell, B.A., M.A., Vice President, Behavior Programs, Southern California

And Why It Matters More Than Ever This School Year

Classroom management is the foundation of effective teaching. From general education classrooms to special education settings, schools rely on strong behavior systems to keep students engaged and learning focused. 

Clear expectations, consistent routines, and positive support help every student succeed, regardless of their needs. 

At LEARN Academy, we understand how essential classroom management is to creating environments where all students can learn. We specialize in supporting students with autism and special needs, and we work with schools to build strategies that benefit every classroom. 

What Is Classroom Management? 

Classroom management refers to the tools and strategies educators use to keep classrooms organized, respectful, and focused. 

It includes setting expectations, creating predictable routines, reinforcing positive behavior, and responding calmly to challenges. 

When classroom management is strong, teachers can teach, and students can learn. Instructional time is protected, and the school day runs more smoothly for everyone. 

Why It Matters 

A well-managed classroom benefits all students. It helps reduce disruptions, increase engagement, and support social and emotional growth. 

Strong classroom management: 

  • Builds consistency and structure 
  • Improves school culture 
  • Creates a sense of safety and belonging 
  • Supports students with diverse learning and behavioral needs 

For students with individualized education programs (IEPs), classroom management plays an even greater role. Consistency, routine, and clear expectations help them feel supported and ready to learn. 

Common and Effective Strategies 

There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but many schools use a combination of proven approaches. These may include: 

  • Classroom rules: Simple, clear expectations posted and reviewed regularly 
  • Visual schedules: Help students follow routines and reduce anxiety 
  • Positive reinforcement: Recognize and reward helpful or kind behavior 
  • Calm-down spaces: Allow students to take a break and self-regulate 
  • Behavior support plans: Tailored strategies for students with higher needs 

These tools work best when they are consistent across classrooms and aligned with broader school goals. 

The Role of AI in Classroom Management 

Technology is playing a growing role in supporting teachers. At LEARN Academy, we are using AI tools to strengthen classroom management and boost student engagement. 

We are looking at ways to use AI to cut paperwork, track progress, spot behavior issues, give reading support, and keep students engaged. These tools free up time for teachers to focus on instruction and connection, while keeping students more engaged in learning. 

How LEARN Academy Can Help 

LEARN Academy partners directly with schools to help students meet their goals in the classroom.  

Our education-focused team works alongside teachers and staff to: 

  • Identify student support needs 
  • Develop tailored learning plans 
  • Provide one-on-one or small-group support in the classroom 
  • Train and coach educators on practical, research-based strategies 

We collaborate with schools to strengthen classroom systems, improve outcomes, and help every student succeed. 

A Strong Start Begins with a Strong Plan 

As you plan for the new school year, now is the time to review your classroom management approach. 

Ask yourself: 

  • Are expectations clear and consistent across classrooms? 
  • Are staff equipped to support all types of learners? 
  • Are there behavior systems in place for students who need more help? 

You do not have to do it alone. LEARN Academy partners with schools and districts to build supportive, effective learning environments for all students. 

Want to learn more? 

Visit LEARN Academy to explore our services or find out how we can support you or your school district this school year. 

The Importance of Sticking to Consistent ABA Therapy

By Ashley Williams, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D

Schedule Transitions Make Sticking to ABA Therapy Even More Important

Anyone in charge of the family calendar knows how important it is to stick to a schedule. It helps keep life on track.

For children on the autism spectrum, a steady schedule is even more important. A daily routine can create a sense of structure and predictability. It can reinforce a sense of stability and allow them to focus better on learning and interacting with others.

When family schedules change — like the transition from summer to back-to-school — it can be anxiety-provoking. The sudden shift from a relaxed summer schedule to a structured school routine can be overwhelming. However, maintaining a consistent daily routine during this transition can help alleviate some of this stress and anxiety.

Back to School and Back to ABA Therapy Services

For children with autism, continuing with applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy when going back to school gives them a big advantage.

It helps to improve social, communication, and learning skills through reinforcement strategies. It also provides them with a set of tools to navigate the complexities of the school environment, helping them to learn how to interact with their peers, follow instructions, and interact in a classroom setting—all of which should be fun.

ABA therapy can be tailored to meet each child’s unique needs and goals, making it an effective way to support their overall development and learning. By incorporating play-based activities and strategies, children not only enjoy themselves but also experience the joy of learning through play.

5 Reasons Why Consistent ABA Services Are Essential

  1. Skill Maintenance: Consistency in ABA services helps children maintain the skills they have already learned. Without ongoing practice and reinforcement, they may experience skill regression, which can impede their progress. Consistent ABA services reinforce learned skills across different settings.
  2. Generalization of Skills: ABA services can provide opportunities to practice and generalize their skills in different environments. By working on skills outside the traditional school setting — such as in community settings or during recreational activities — your child can learn to adapt to skills across various real-life situations.
  3. Individualized Support: Consistent ABA services allow for ongoing individualized support tailored to the specific needs of your child. ABA programs are highly individualized, focusing on the unique goals and interests of each child. Continuity of services allows you and your team to monitor your child’s progress, adjust goals as necessary, and introduce new skills based on your child’s development and needs.
  4. Behavior Management: Summer break may have introduced changes in routine and increased leisure time, which can sometimes lead to challenging behaviors. As your child goes back to school, consistent ABA services provide behavioral strategies and interventions to address and manage these behaviors effectively. ABA professionals can work closely with you and your child to develop behavior support plans and provide guidance on how to address challenging behaviors as they arise.
  5. Transition Preparation: For those transitioning to a new school or educational setting in the upcoming academic year, consistent ABA services can facilitate a smoother transition. ABA professionals can focus on specific skills that will support your child’s adjustment to the new environment. That focus can include social skills, communication, and self-help skills. By addressing these areas during times of transition, your child can feel more prepared and confident when starting their new educational journey.

For children with autism, transitioning back to school requires a careful balance between preventing skill regression and having fun. At LEARN, our goal is both. A collaborative relationship between your family and your behavior analyst can help you create a steady schedule that works during this time of transition and sets your child up for ongoing success in school and life.

Ashley Williams is a senior clinical director at LEARN Behavioral.

For more resources about ABA consistency, watch our video “How ABA Therapy Helped Our Children Succeed: Insights from Two BCBA Moms.”

Why Wandering Is a Serious Risk for Kids With Autism, Especially in Summer 

 For many families raising a child with autism, one of the biggest fears is a child slipping away. That might mean walking out the front door, leaving the playground or disappearing into a crowd. This behavior, often called “wandering” or “elopement,” can happen in a matter of seconds. It’s more than stressful. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. 

Summer brings even more opportunities for this to happen. Routines shift, outings increase, and kids are often near water, one of the biggest safety hazards for children with autism. Understanding why wandering happens and how to prevent it can help families stay prepared and safe. 

What Is Wandering? 

Wandering happens when a child leaves a safe place without permission or supervision. This can include leaving home, school, a playground, or a caregiver in public. 

In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it’s especially common. A 2012 study in Pediatrics found that nearly half of children with autism had tried to wander or run away at least once after age 4. Of those, 26% were missing long enough to cause concern. 

The reasons vary. Some children may seek out a place they enjoy, such as water. Others may run to escape overwhelming sounds, sights, or situations. But no matter the cause, the risk is high. 

Why Summer Brings Added Risk 

Wandering can happen any time of year, but summer adds new layers of risk. Families are more likely to be out of their routines, exploring new places, or visiting pools, lakes, and beaches. New environments can be exciting, disorienting, or overstimulating for kids with autism. 

Water presents the greatest danger. According to the National Autism Association, accidental drowning accounted for 71% of all deaths resulting from wandering in children with autism under age 15. 

And it can happen fast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it takes as little as 20 seconds for a child to drown. 

Safety Strategies That Can Help 

Many families aren’t told about wandering risks when their child is first diagnosed. But there are proactive steps that can help reduce danger. 

Swim lessons are one of the most effective strategies. Some insurance plans may cover swim lessons for children with autism as part of behavioral treatment. Read more in Why Swimming and Water Play Benefit Kids with ASD. 

Families can also partner with a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to teach safety skills. BCBAs can support children in tolerating wearable tracking devices, reducing bolting behaviors, and recognizing safe adults or “community helpers.” 

Other tools include: 

  • Personal ID wristbands or GPS trackers 
  • Secure fencing or home alarms 
  • Creating emergency plans with neighbors 
  • Registering with local police or Smart911.com, which lets families share medical or behavioral information that pops up for 911 dispatchers 

Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind 

Not every child with autism wanders. But for those who do, preparation can save lives. 

Summer outings should be fun, not stressful. These 4 Steps to Swim Safety for Your Child with Autism offer practical tips families can use right away. 

For more information on wandering and autism safety planning, visit the National Autism Association’s Big Red Safety Toolkit.