Preparing for a New School Year: How to Get Ready for IEPs, Special Ed, and ABA Support
Heyyy, BCBA Ruby here!
With the school year quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about how we can set up students for success, especially those who have IEPs, receive Special Ed services, or are receiving support from ABA professionals. The transition from summer break back to school can be overwhelming, but taking the time to plan ahead for these important areas can help make the process smoother and more successful.
Whether you're a parent, a teacher, an RBT, or a BCBA, let’s take a look at how to ensure students have everything they need to make the most of their IEP, Special Ed services, and ABA support this school year!
1. Review and Update the IEP
Before the new school year begins, it’s essential to review your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). If any changes need to be made—such as updated goals, services, or accommodations—this is the time to make them. For parents, if you haven't had an IEP meeting recently, schedule one with the school to ensure everything is up-to-date.
Make sure that goals are measurable, realistic, and aligned with your child's strengths and areas of need. If your child is in a Special Ed program, make sure that the program still meets their needs and that any new services are clearly documented in the IEP.
2. Clarify ABA Support and Goals
If your child is receiving Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, now is the time to have a conversation with their BCBA or ABA team to discuss goals for the new school year. Have there been changes in behavior that need to be addressed? Do we need to adjust reinforcement strategies or behavior intervention plans?
Make sure that the ABA therapist is in close communication with the school team, so they can collaborate and ensure consistency across settings. This might also be a good time to review progress from the previous year and reflect on any areas that still need support.
3. Create a Communication Plan Between Home and School
For students with IEPs, it’s crucial to establish strong communication between home and school. Whether it's through daily or weekly updates, keeping open lines of communication will ensure that all team members—parents, teachers, BCBAs, and support staff—are aligned on goals, strategies, and any challenges that arise.
Consider implementing a communication log, a digital update, or regular meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and any necessary adjustments. This is especially important for children in Special Ed programs, as it ensures that everyone involved in the child’s education is on the same page.
4. Ensure a Smooth Transition for Special Education Needs
For students with more complex needs, the transition back to school can be particularly challenging. Whether it's a new teacher, a different classroom setup, or simply getting back into the school routine, it’s important to prepare for potential changes.
For Special Ed students, reviewing classroom modifications, accommodations, and services before the school year starts is key. Ensure that any required sensory accommodations, seating arrangements, or individualized support are already in place. If your child is working with an RBT or BCBA, make sure these adjustments are discussed so that therapy and learning strategies are carried out consistently.
5. Social Skills and Emotional Support
For many students receiving ABA support, working on social skills and emotional regulation is part of the process. It's important to help students feel ready for social interactions and classroom dynamics. Work with your child or student on role-playing common school scenarios or reviewing school routines to make them feel confident about returning.
Incorporating social stories, visual supports, or calming techniques may also help students transition more smoothly back into school. This can be particularly beneficial for children who struggle with anxiety or sensory processing issues.
6. Reinforce and Teach Behavioral Expectations
When it comes to ABA, behavioral expectations are key to setting students up for success. Take the time to talk about what behaviors are expected in the classroom, during transitions, and with peers. If there were behavioral challenges last year, now is the time to work with your BCBA to develop a behavior intervention plan (BIP) that addresses these concerns.
Ensure that school staff is aware of the specific strategies and reinforcement plans that work best for your child. Collaboration with school personnel to implement consistent behavioral practices can lead to greater success.
7. Prepare for Collaboration Between Special Ed Teachers, BCBAs, and Support Staff
Collaboration between Special Ed teachers, BCBAs, and other support staff is crucial for students receiving ABA services. Make sure that everyone is aware of the student’s IEP goals, ABA objectives, and any behavioral strategies in place. Collaboration ensures that the child receives consistent support both at school and during therapy.
Check in with your BCBA, special education teacher, and any other key members of your child’s support team to ensure you’re all on the same page before school begins. Building a strong partnership with everyone involved in the child’s education will help them thrive.
8. Prepare Your Child for the School Environment
Before school begins, talk to your child about what to expect. Whether it’s a new classroom, new teacher, or new classmates, helping them prepare for changes is key. Social stories, visual schedules, or even just talking through potential changes can help your child feel more in control of the upcoming transition.
If you know there will be new staff or aides working with your child, it’s helpful to schedule introductions and brief meetings so your child can get familiar with them.
9. Don’t Forget Self-Care for Parents and Teachers
Parents and teachers supporting students with IEPs, Special Ed, and ABA goals often give so much of themselves to their children and students. As we prepare for the school year, don’t forget the importance of self-care. Whether it’s carving out time for relaxation, seeking support from a community, or taking a break when needed, make sure to prioritize your own well-being too.
Final Thoughts:
As we approach the new school year, there’s a lot to do to prepare students with IEPs, Special Ed needs, and ABA support for success. By reviewing IEPs, clarifying ABA goals, ensuring strong communication, and preparing both emotionally and behaviorally, we can help students thrive. Collaboration and consistency are key to making this school year the best one yet.
What are you most excited about as the new school year approaches? Let’s get ready to work together and make this school year a success!
