Supporting Your Child with Autism at School

While ABA can provide services in homes, community settings, and clinics, managing ABA therapy in school-based settings is a relatively new endeavor. As Powerback Pediatrics works to provide your child with a comprehensive support plan, here are a few things you might want to know about what schools can do to support your child while we work to partner with them.

What are 504 plans?

This resource comes from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This federal law applies to all public schools and makes it illegal to discriminate against children with disabilities. 504 Plans often include accommodations for children with disabilities. 

IEPs– examples and more

An Individualized Education Plan, or IEP, is the most robust support resource a school can provide. This includes specially designed instruction for your child based on their needs. An IEP means your child is eligible for and receives special education services. These plans include specific goals for your child that school-based professionals will work to address. 

To be eligible for an IEP, your child must undergo an assessment process to determine if they qualify for these services. Often, IEPs can include similar accommodations that a 504 provides, but with the added benefit of specific goals related to your child’s needs. These plans are best for students with more significant needs and require more help to be successful.

What are BIPs?

A BIP, or Behavior Intervention Plan, is necessary for students who exhibit challenging or disruptive behaviors at school. These plans are completed by qualified professionals, such as school psychologists or behavior support teachers, and include what support your child might need in order to reduce the behavior in question. Sometimes, these plans are included as part of an IEP, but this is not always true.

School specialists and their roles

Knowing what roles school-based specialists may play in your child’s learning at school is important to help you remain engaged. 

Here’s an overview of who could make up a part of your child’s plan:

• Classroom Teacher – This professional sees your child the most often, and they also set the expectations for their classroom that the team tries to meet. They know the academic requirements and what students must accomplish to meet those set standards

• School Counselors – These professionals often help with social skills, mental health, and friendships. The school counselor wears many hats and often plays a large role at school.  It’s generally easier to ask what they don’t do!

• School Psychologist – This individual will conduct your child’s evaluation to determine if they qualify for an IEP. They regularly consult with other educators to problem solve and recommend appropriate support. Some school psychologists also provide mental health services.

• Special Education Teacher– If your child has an IEP, this person will oversee their plan and provide specialized teaching and other accommodations.  They will work closely with your child, their teacher, and others to provide your child with the services they need.

• Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs)– SLPs also have a wide variety of skills. They often work on students’ language skills, such as expressing themselves and understanding what others are asking them to do. They can also work on friendship and social skills too!

Together, these professionals form a team that works in tandem with your child and you, the parent, to provide ample support and guidance throughout the school day. Since most children spend about 1/3 of their day here, it’s vital to understand who to go to, what to ask for, and what is available. 

As a parent, you are the most important part of your child’s team. You know them best, and your input and guidance will help shape your child to achieve their fullest potential.

Are you interested in school therapy services for your child? 

Powerback Pediatrics provides ABA therapy in the school, preschool, or daycare setting in Arkansas, Missouri, or Nebraska. In collaboration with in-home therapy, we coordinate with your child’s school to develop a plan to determine how to best service them in the classroom setting. 

Metro Therapy, a division of Powerback Pediatrics, offers therapy services for children in schools throughout New York. Learn more about Metro Therapy here!