09/01/2025
🍎✨ Back-to-School Success: ABA Tips for the First Week of School ✨🍎
The first week back to school can bring excitement and challenges. New teachers, new routines, and new expectations can feel overwhelming for kids—especially for those who thrive on predictability.
Here are 5 ABA-based tips to help make your child’s first week a smooth one:
1️⃣ Practice the Morning Routine Early
Do a few “dress rehearsals” before school starts—wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, and pack the backpack. Repetition builds confidence and reduces stress.
2️⃣ Use Visual Supports
Visual schedules, checklists, or picture cues can help kids know what’s coming next and feel in control.
3️⃣ Offer Choices When Possible
Simple choices (“Do you want pancakes or cereal for breakfast?”). They have to brush their teeth ("Do you want to brush your teeth upstairs or downstairs?"), giving children a sense of control and reducing morning power struggles.
4️⃣ Reinforce Brave Behavior
Notice and praise your child for small successes—like walking into school, riding the bus, greeting a teacher, or sitting with new peers. Specific praise (“I love how you walked in calmly!”) ("You were so brave getting right on the bus your first day") makes those behaviors more likely to happen again!
5️⃣ Plan for After-School Decompression
School is a lot of work! Build in downtime or a preferred activity right after school to help your child reset before tackling homework or chores.
💡 Final Thought
The first week sets the tone for the whole year. By using positive reinforcement, visual supports, and predictable routines, you’re not just helping your child adjust—you’re building skills for independence, resilience, and confidence.
From Mayflower Early ABA Services—we wish your family a joyful and successful start to the school year! 🌟
