What to Expect in Your Child’s First ABA Session

 

 

https://www.a1autismconsultants.com/

What to Expect in Your Child’s First ABA Session

Starting Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an exciting step for families. It means your child is about to begin learning new skills and building confidence through personalized support. Still, the first session can feel a little overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect.

This guide walks parents through what typically happens during the first ABA session so you and your child feel prepared, comfortable, and encouraged.

Getting Started with ABA

ABA therapy is designed to help children with autism improve communication, social skills, daily routines, and independence. Every program is individualized, so no two sessions look exactly alike. But most providers follow a similar process to help children feel at ease and set a strong foundation for future progress.

Step 1: A Warm Welcome

The first ABA session often begins with simple introductions. Your child will meet their therapist (often called an RBT, or Registered Behavior Technician), and you may also meet the supervising BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst).

👉 Parent tip: Some children may take time to warm up. That’s completely normal. ABA therapists are trained to go at your child’s pace and build trust gradually.

Step 2: Getting to Know Your Child

During the first session, the therapist will spend time observing and interacting with your child. They’ll look for things like:

  • How your child communicates (words, gestures, or devices)

  • What toys or activities they enjoy most

  • How they respond to new people and settings

  • Any behaviors that may need support

This is called pairing—when the therapist focuses on building a positive relationship by joining your child in activities they enjoy.

👉 Why it matters: Pairing helps your child feel safe and happy with their therapist, setting the tone for future learning.

Step 3: Assessment Activities

The BCBA may conduct or review an initial assessment during the first few sessions. This helps them identify your child’s strengths, challenges, and developmental needs. Assessments may include:

  • Communication and language skills

  • Play and social interaction

  • Self-help routines (like eating or dressing)

  • Responses to directions or tasks

👉 Parent tip: Don’t worry if your child doesn’t “perform” during the assessment. The goal is to get a natural picture of where they are right now, not to test them.

Step 4: Introducing Structure

Depending on your child’s comfort level, the therapist may begin introducing structured activities. This could be something small, like asking your child to complete a simple task (e.g., pointing to a picture or handing over a toy).

Every success—no matter how small—is rewarded with positive reinforcement, such as praise, high-fives, or a favorite toy.

👉 Why it matters: Positive reinforcement helps your child connect learning with fun and success.

Step 5: Parent Involvement

Most ABA providers encourage parents to participate, especially in the beginning. You might observe the session, ask questions, or learn strategies to support your child at home.

👉 Parent tip: Take notes! Many parents find it helpful to jot down ideas to try during daily routines like mealtime or bedtime.

Step 6: Wrap-Up and Feedback

At the end of the first session, the therapist will review how things went. They may share:

  • What activities your child enjoyed most

  • Any initial challenges or observations

  • How your child responded to reinforcement

  • Next steps for building the therapy plan

👉 Why it matters: Open communication ensures you feel informed and involved from day one.

How Long is the First Session?

The length of the first ABA session can vary. Some providers keep it short (1 hour) to avoid overwhelming your child. Others may do a longer session if your child is comfortable. Over time, sessions typically last 2–4 hours, depending on your child’s needs and schedule.

Helping Your Child Prepare

Here are a few tips to make the first session go smoothly:

  1. Bring comfort items (a favorite toy, blanket, or snack).

  2. Explain simply—tell your child they’re going to play and learn with a new friend.

  3. Stay positive—children pick up on parent emotions, so a calm, encouraging attitude helps them feel safe.

  4. Arrive early so your child has time to adjust to the new environment.

Final Thoughts

Your child’s first ABA session is the beginning of a journey filled with growth, discovery, and progress. While it may feel new and unfamiliar at first, remember that the therapists are there to support both your child and your family.

With patience, consistency, and a positive start, ABA therapy can open doors to new skills, independence, and confidence for your child.




At A1 Autism Consultants in Worcester, MA, we provide in-home and center-based ABA therapy fro people on the Autism Spectrum as well as services such as: Social skills, supervision, parent training, vocational support, workshop supervision, consultation and training, social skills group assessments, counseling services. 

We are currently accepting new clients in Worcester, MA and surroundings and have no waitlist.

For more information please call 774-420-7161 or email us at intake@a1autismconsultants.com

https://www.a1autismconsultants.com/

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