Back-to-School Tips for Families of Children with Autism: Practical Tools + ABA Strategies for a Smooth Transition

The Spark Learning Blog • Posted by Spark Learning on July 30, 2025

Let’s head back to the classroom with confidence!

As summer winds down and the first day of school approaches, many families are preparing for new teachers, new routines, and maybe even a new school. For families of children with autism, this transition can bring unique challenges, but with the right supports in place, it can also be an exciting time of growth.

At Spark, we know how important preparation and predictability are, especially during times of change. Whether your child is starting school for the first time, returning to a familiar classroom, or navigating a brand-new environment, read on for some practical tips to help make the back-to-school transition smoother for everyone.

Practice New Routines Early

Start adjusting sleep and wake times a few weeks before school begins, especially if summer schedules have been more flexible. Consider doing “practice runs” of the morning routine, wake up, eat breakfast, get dressed, and head out the door, so the first day feels more familiar.

You can even drive or walk the school route together, or tour the school grounds if your child is starting somewhere new.

Create Visual Schedules and Social Stories

Visual supports can help reduce anxiety and provide predictability. A visual schedule that outlines the school day or morning routine can give your child a clear picture of what to expect. Social stories are another great tool for walking through new experiences, like meeting a teacher, using a desk, or navigating the lunchroom. Consider writing stories about:

• The first day of school
• Meeting a new teacher or classmates
• Riding the bus
• What to do if you feel overwhelmed
• Using the bathroom at school

Personalize these tools based on your child’s preferences and the specific school environment. Be sure to review them frequently leading up to the first day.

Prepare Together

Involving your child in simple prep tasks like packing their backpack or choosing their lunchbox snack can help build independence and give them a sense of ownership over the school day. Try using a visual checklist to guide what goes in the bag (e.g., folder, water bottle, lunch, comfort item) and practice it a few times before the first day. Bonus: Turn it into a game or race, such as “Let’s race to see if we can pack everything before the timer goes off!”

Make Asking For Help Easy

Sometimes the biggest challenge at school isn’t the task, it’s figuring out how to ask for help. Practice at home using functional communication strategies that they can on the first day, and beyond!

• Raising a hand
• Pointing to a “help” card
• Using different phrases like “I don’t know” or “Can you help me?”

Reinforce every time your child asks for help, even during pretend play! It’s a small skill that makes a big difference in confidence and independence at school.

Connect With the School Team

If possible, schedule a time to meet the teacher or visit the classroom before school starts. Share helpful information about your child’s communication style, sensory preferences, and strengths. You can also ask about how the school supports transitions and what strategies are used in the classroom.

Open, collaborative communication with your child’s educators is key to setting up a strong support system from day one. Consider sharing the following information:

• Your child’s preferences and reinforcers
• ABA Treatment Plan and/or Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)
• Known triggers and calming strategies

Celebrate the Wins, Big and Small!

Transitions aren’t always easy. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s a successful drop-off, a great report from the teacher, or simply trying something new. Keep communication open with your child and offer encouragement along the way

You’ve got this, and we’ve got you.

At Spark, we believe every child deserves a confident, supported start to the school year. If you need help building routines or preparing for new transitions, our team is here to support you.

Want more personalized support? Reach out to your Spark BCBA to set up a parent meeting or contact us to learn how we can help build school readiness skills and routines at home.

Join the Spark Family

• Little Sparks – Our early intervention preschool and kinder program designed to build foundational skills through play-based ABA therapy.
• Speech Therapy – Helping children develop communication skills with personalized, engaging speech and language support.
• Summer Camp – A fun, inclusive program where kids build social skills and confidence through structured activities and play.
• Social Skills & Group – Small-group ABA sessions that teach children how to engage, communicate, and navigate social situations.
• Parent Training – Equipping parents with effective ABA strategies to support each child’s growth at home and beyond.

At Spark, we believe that ABA therapy should be engaging, natural, and, most importantly… fun! Our goal is to empower children, support families, and build confidence in every child we work with.

Ready to learn more? Reach out today!